You bought an expensive 1080p, flat panel, HD television, but once you get it hooked up at home and ready to watch your favorite television drama, you realize the picture is fuzzy, pixilated and just not that HD quality you’ve come to expect and saw in the electronics store.

Don’t worry! Do not call the store threatening to return it. There is nothing wrong with your new TV.

Truth is, your TV can only display the best signal available. Just because your TV can display 1080 progressive scan, doesn’t mean it always will. If your favorite station doesn’t broadcast in HD, your TV cannot display an HD quality picture.

Right now, television broadcasting is in a transitional phase. By February 2009, all of the United States will broadcast in digital format. This can include Standard Definition,

Enhanced Definition or High Definition. Although High Definition in not the required format, it is expected to be the most dominate in the coming years.

Some networks have changed all their programming to HD, others are only broadcasting

some shows in HD, and many have yet to adjust from analog to digital. Additionally, many cable and satellite companies are incorporating HD into their receivers and offering HD programming to their customers. However, some consider this an upgrade and charge extra. 

Currently, HDTVs are best used for movies and home theaters. Especially, with the emphasis going to HD DVDs and Blu-ray discs.

Although you may not be able get the best out of your new HDTV yet, the technology is catching up and eventually all programming will be digital and your picture crystal clear.