How is HDTV different from regular television?
HDTV, or high-definition television, is a fully digital form of broadcasting, delivering the highest quality picture (sharper and wider, like a movie screen) to your home.
What is the difference in the picture quality with HDTV?
HDTV has more than twice the amount of picture detail than regular TV has. The picture you receive using your current analog television equipment is made up of 525 interlaced horizontal lines that are refreshed at a rate of about 1/30 of a second.
The picture on an HDTV television is made up of 1080i horizontal lines, meaning more detail and clarity. Also, the lines displaying the image on your screen run from top to bottom at a rate of 1/60 of a second, creating a very life-like picture. The wider picture, is similar to movie screens and more closely resemble your peripheral vision, making HDTV a more natural viewing experience than your analog set.
How do I get HDTV?
You need an HDTV-ready television and a separate box called an HDTV Digital Box. This is because HDTV-ready televisions do not have the specific high definition signal receiver built in to receive the HD signals. Eastlink rents an HDTV DVR for $14.95 a month. The boxes generally retail for about $700.
Where can I buy an HDTV set and what will it cost?
Most electronics stores carry a wide variety of HDTV sets. Although prices have come down considerably since these TVs were launched just a few years ago, you can still expect prices in the $1000-$4000 range for a standard HDTV set.
Do I have an HDTV-ready set?
Because there are so many types of televisions and manufacturers there is no way that we can confirm that your TV is HDTV ready. Please consult your television's user guide, the retailer you purchased the TV from, or the manufacturer's website.
Can I use my current video game, VCR, DVD player and Camcorder with an HDTV Set?
Yes, you can because HDTV sets are backwards compatible. However, the picture will not necessarily be displayed in high definition. Instead, your camcorder, video game or VCR picture will be displayed at the product's maximum resolution.
Why does my TV act differently when I'm switching channels between HDTV, regular channels, and other video sources?
When switching between HDTV and other video sources the TV will seem like it is abruptly turning off and on. This is because the TV has to adjust to the different video signal when switching between different video sources and HDTV. This is typical on all HDTV televisions and is not related to the Digital Cable Box or signals. To minimize this experience we have placed all HDTV channels up in the 600 range. To view the high definition signal you will have to switch the TV/Video input to an HD video input on the television.
Will the Eastlink technician provide the various audio and video connection cables at installation?
We will supply component video cables. These cables transmit the video from the boxes to the TV. The cables are made up of three jacks on both ends, colored red, blue and green. If you want a specific video cable, you will be responsible for purchasing it from an electronics retailer. The HD DVR has both component video and DVI-D outputs.
The HD DVR is Dolby 5.1 capable. The Eastlink technician will supply coaxial digital audio cables but you will be responsible for purchasing cables other than the coaxial (from an electronics retailer) to transmit the audio signal from the HD DVR to your audio/video receiver.
How do I activate Closed Captioning for High Definition Programming?
By following these few steps, this should enable the Closed Captioning on High Definition Channels.
1. Turn on your TV
2. Have your cable box plugged in
3. Turn the power off on your cable box.
4. Press the menu button on your cable box. (A menu screen should now be visible on your TV screen)
6. Using the down curser button on the cable box move down to the Closed Captioning option
7. Press the right curser button to change Closed Captioning from disabled to enabled.
8. Now return power to your cable box by pressing the power button on your cable box (you may have to press this twice).
9. Closed Captioning should now be visible within a few minutes.
Are Eastlink HD capable receivers also 3D ready?
Yes, both the DCX700 and DCX3400 HD capable digital receivers can also be used to accept 3D programming. Eastlink in partnership with broadcast partners often offer 3D programming demonstrations via Channel 600. Check the "What's New" section of our web site for more information.
How much does HD programming cost?
Basic HD programming, which enables Eastlink customers to view all available HD versions of the SD chanels the customer subscribes to for only $4.95. Customers can enjoy even more HD programming by subscribing to HD Extra. HD Extra is Eastlink 's premium HD package and your ticket to the world for only $6.95/month. HD Extra is ideal for adventure, science, wildlife, travel and extreme sports from the comfort of your living room.
Can an HD capable digital receiver work with an SD TV?
Yes. Eastlink HD capable digital receivers automatically convert HD broadcast signals to accommodate SD TV's. Viewers will be able to select and view HD channels, but the quality of the experience will be limited to the capabilities of the SD TV.
Are Eastlink HD capable receivers also 3D ready?
Yes, both the DCX700 and DCX3400 HD capable digital receivers can also be used to accept 3D programming. Eastlink in partnership with broadcast partners often offer 3D programming demonstrations via Channel 600. Check the "What's New" section of our web site for more information.
Do Eastlink HD capable digital receivers allow customers to connect TV's via COAX cable?
No. Eastlink HD capable digital receivers connect to the TV via either component video or HDMI cables. Customers looking to connect an older TV set with only a COAX cable connector can obtain a component video cable to COAX cable converter. Refer to the "Digital TV Audio & Video Cables" section on our web site for further information.