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Article   Last Updated: Fri, 12 Aug 2011 > Related Articles
What is HDTV?  HDTV (high definition TV) is a TV display
technology that provides a higher picture and sound quality than
standard TV sets.  Why is the Aspect Ratio of Different Programs
Inconsistent?  Roughly half of prime time TV programs of the
major networks are available in the HDTV format (16:9). The
other half are available in the standard-definition format
(4:3). The aspect ratio of the content is controlled by the
content providers; example: HBO and Showtime. You can access the
providers website to see which programming is released in the
HDTV format (16:9).  Why are There Black or Gray Bars
Surrounding the Picture?    • When a standard-definition (4:3
aspect ratio) program is viewed on a HDTV (16:9 aspect ratio),
the HDTV centers the image on the screen with black or gray bars
on either side.   • When HDTV (16:9 as