Dtv aspect ratio's

[labatt90]

Changing from standard ntcs 4:3 aspect ratio cable tv to digital cable tv. What can I expect to see? Will by tv get this in a wide 16:9 aspect ratio?

[Ratman]

With a standard TV, digital cable will look like standard TV.

With an HD capable TV, Standard definition programs will be be 4:3. HD programs will be 16:9.

With a 4:3 HD capable TV, 16:9 programming will have 'bars' on the top and bottom.

With a 16:9 HD capable TV, 16:9 programming will completely fill the screen. 4:3 will have "bars" on each side.

[labatt90]

I guess my true question is this. I have a huge plasma tv that is begging for HD. However, my question is whether or not repeats of "friends" for example, are going to look better from channel 5 digital tv then it does right now with standard cable.

[Ratman]

Probably not... normally channels 2-99 will remain as 'analog' on cable TV systems.

[mfabien]

I guess my true question is this. I have a huge plasma tv that is begging for HD. However, my question is whether or not repeats of "friends" for example, are going to look better from channel 5 digital tv then it does right now with standard cable.

Is your Plasma an EDTV or HDTV capable? If the former, analog will do.

[labatt90]

mfabien, my plasm is HDTV capable to the hilt.

[Ratman]

Does your plasma display 1080i natively?

If not, only close to the hilt. :)

[labatt90]

yes, it is natively 1080i!!!

[Ratman]

What make/model?

Just read your specs... 1024x1024. That's as close as you can get with a plasma.