ViewSonic VPW425 - 42" Plasma TV User Manual page 16

How is a HDTV/EDTV/SDTV Different from a HDTV/EDTV/SDTV Monitor?
In order to receive digital broadcasts, a digital "receiver" or "decoder" must be used to receive and decode
digital broadcast signals. Digital decoders can be built into the display itself or they may come in the form of
a set-top box that is added separately to the display. HDTV/EDTV/SDTV Monitors are digital monitors with-
out a digital decoder built into the television whereas HDTV/EDTV/SDTV Televisions are displays with a
decoder built-in. HDTV/EDTV/SDTV Monitors give you the flexibility to add a digital decoder in the future
when digital broadcasts are more prevalent.
What is "Down-Convert"?
Down-convert takes place when a digital broadcast signal exceeds the display capabilities of the display and
the broadcast signal is reduced to match the television's limited display capabilities. For example, if a TV sta-
tion broadcasts a digital program using 1080 lines (1080i format) while the display can only display 480 lines,
the signal is reduced or down-converted to only 480 lines, resulting in lesser information being displayed.
This plasma monitor is qualified as an EDTV Monitor. This means that this monitor can
display up to 480 lines using progessive scan format; therefore resolutions higher than 480
lines must be down-converted in order to be displayed. This EDTV Monitor includes
advanced digital processing circuitry where the down-conversion process is done
automatically while maximizing picture quality.
What is "Up-Convert"?
Up-convert takes place when a digital television's display capabilities exceed the digital broadcast signal and
the broadcast signal is increased to match the TV's display capabilities. For example, if a TV station broad-
casts a digital program using 480 lines and the digital television is able to display 1080 lines, the signal is
increased or "up-converted" to match the TV.
This monitor includes advanced digital processing where all traditional analog television
and video formats (NTSC / PAL) in the form interlaced signals are up-converted to 480 lines
progressive scan method. Please note that up-conversion may result in some picture artifi-
cacts because information is being artificially added to the picture.
Is This Plasma Monitor Compatible with Digital TV / HDTV?
This plasma monitor is compatible with digital TV. In order to receive digital television broadcasts, you will
need to use a "HDTV decoder" or "HDTV set-top box" with component video output or RGB video output.
Please consult your local sales representative prior to purchasing a HDTV decoder or HDTV set-top box.
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