OTA

In some areas, HD programming is offered free as an OTA (over-the-air) broadcast. Most major networks broadcast HD signals that you can receive with an ATSC antenna, which is likely to be integrated in new HDTV models. Depending on how far you live from the transmitter and how many signal-blocking obstructions exist, OTA may be the quickest and most affordable way for you to connect your HDTV to the HD programming it’s designed for.

Things to know. As part of the migration to HD, most local broadcasters are required to make their programming available as unencrypted OTA broadcasts. Also, OTA broadcasts are immune to some of the signal problems that plague SDTV broadcasts such as snow and jittering. Instead, your HD signal will either come in, or you’ll see a black screen.

Satellite/Cable

Cable and satellite providers were some of the first pioneers in providing HD content with trailblazing programs, such as HDNet. Depending on your provider, you may be able to access dozens of HD channels at an affordable cost.

Things to know. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that digital cable will automatically provide you with an HD picture. Most cable companies have migrated from analog cable to a digital system to increase the number of channels they can offer you. You’ll typically need to subscribe to an HD package to receive HD programming.

Receiving an HD signal will usually require a digital set-top box or HD satellite receiver from your provider. Cable and satellite companies often lease these devices for nominal fees. In addition to the set-top box, you’ll need either an HDMI cable or a set of component cables to connect your HDTV to the set-top box.

Blu-ray Discs

BDs (Blu-ray Discs) are starting to supplant DVDs as the medium of choice for disc content. BDs are small optical discs that store movies with elaborate bonus features in the finest of HD and surround-sound audio quality. Imagine all the features you’ve become accustomed to with DVD, then double the picture and audio quality; that’s what BDs offer.

Things to know. In order to watch BD content, you’ll need a Blu-ray Disc player. And, to ensure that you’re watching your BD movie in true HD, the disc player will need to be connected to your HDTV with an HDMI cable. Other cables, such as Component cables, won’t deliver the high-definition video quality that BDs have to offer.