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Ask HDBeat: How can I tell the difference between 1080i and 1080p
John, this is easily one of the most common questions we get. We have covered it before and, well, honestly we don't mind covering it again. This time around though we will break it down nice and easy for not only you but the hundreds that have the same question: How can you tell the difference between 1080i and 1080p? You probably can't.We are serious.They both have the same amount of data being displayed, but the 'i' stands for interlaced. You see, a interlaced picture displays the picture by showing the odd number of horizontal lines and then the even numbered ones on the screen at a rate of 1/30 of a second. The 'p' type stands for progressive that displays all the info at the same time. So is there a difference - yes; can you see it - probably not anymore. The main reason you cannot tell comes from the type of HDTVs that are on the market these days. LCDs, DLPs, SXRD/DILA/LCoS, and plasmas are always a progressive type TV. Only CRTs can properly display an interlaced signal. The other type of displays will take that incoming interlaced signal and display it in a progressive type resolution like 720p or 1080p. There is of course a good amount of technical stuff behind that (see Deinterlacing and telecine) but we promised John and everyone else that we will keep it nice and easy.[Thanks for the question John!]
Ask HD Beat: DVD recorder with HDMI and DivX
Aaron has a good question. He is wondering what we think about a new DVD recorder from Toshiba (D-R5) that supports DivX playback and has a HDMI output. He indicates that he is looking for a way to reduce the amount of "boxes" by his TV. Well Aaron, we are not a big fan of DVD recorders for one. They cannot record anything HD nor can the efficiently copy DVDs. (yes, there are ways around this but it is not a fast nor efficient) Other than those big hang-ups, it seems like a good player. HDMI outputs can be good to have and DivX support is great if you use it. We just are not that sure if the DVD recorder part is worth it. What do you think about this new player from Toshiba for Aaron. Any advice?UPDATE: Thanks for pointing out the difference between DIVX and DivX Chris. DIVX is was Circuit City failed pay-per view DVD format while DivX is the video codec that everyone has came to love and respect. Oh and Dave, I had forgotten about it even though I was one of the salesman that was told to sell the format by Circuit City.
