4x3 format

[rich67]

I dont know what forum to address this, but maybe someone can enlignten me. Why do some local tv stations broadcast local content in 4x3 format when they supposedly broadcast in HD?

 

[n0qcu]

The simple answer is they have not upgraded all of their equipment to do so.

 

[SatelliteAV]

Technically, they are transmitting a DTV signal and meeting the FCC requirement. HD content can be available in any ratio. 4x3 or 16x9 ratio material (or any other ratio programming) may be broadcast in HD or SD formats. The resolution of the material, limited either by acquisition and/or playback copy and transmission bandwidth will be the quality determination factors.

Often a station up-converts low resolution SD material and broadcasts in high resolution format. A waste of bandwidth, but fills up the schedule and meets the DTV requirements.

 

[Mr Tony]

we have a Fox station that broadcasts in 480i widescreen for Fox related programs/sports

otherwise its black bar hell

 

[Satellite Lover]

Thank you for all of the answers!