HDTV programming?

[Diamondback]

Someone help me understand how HDTV programing works. Why is it that if a game is broadcast in high definition on say ESPN, that you have to be watching it on ESPN HD channel? If you have an HDTV recevier and turn it on the regular ESPN channel, why won't it come in high definition? Do they use standard cameras along with HDTV cameras for people watching on regular ESPN? Is it done this way solely for cable/satellite companies to make sure you buy a certain HDTV package? Help me out on this b/c I would assume that if you are watching USA and there is a movie being broadcast in HDTV, it should be coming in with a high def receiver.

 

[sessamoid]

Google is your friend.
The Link

 

[UTinBigD]

well for satellite TV, they have different channels (one for SD and one for HD) because the HD takes up a lot more bandwidth. SD TV's cannot resolve an HD picture it is like trying to play a DVD from a VHS tape player.

Also, they can show SD programming on an HD channel, but not the other way around. Not every program on ESPN-HD or HBO-HD is filmed/shown in HD. If you have a HD receiver and HD monitor, then you can watch both SD and HD channels.

 

[LosIllini]

If you are wanting to watch broadcasts in HD- you need the right equipment/ right channel--- and the event needs to be broadcast in HD (using HD cameras/ feeds).

For example, there are many basketball games broadcast on ESPNHD- that aren't actually in HD- ie- they are being 'shot' in SD- and broadcasted over the HD channel. You will see borders around the screen-- and while a good picture-- it will not compare to HD.

Likewise, there are some network shows (Leno, NYPD Blue to name a couple)- that are shot/ broadcasted in HD- that you can pick up over the air w/ an antenna- (if your HD TV has an internal HD tuner- or alternatively if your cable / satellite box has an over the air tuner.

It's sort of a mixed bag all the way around-- though I have been pretty pleased w/ my Sony LCD-- w/ OTA programming and Dishnetwork HD package (I bought a DIshnet receiver off ebay- and subscribe to HD-only for $17/ month. Only 4 or 5 HD channels- however, I'm primarily interested in HDNet and ESPNHD). Not enough HD programming- but getting better.

Here are a couple of links for programming--

Link 1
Link 2