The growing popularity of HD (high definition for novices) and the much wider availability of programming in this format has given rise to many more channels than there were, even a year ago. This is a good thing for consumers, right? Well, up until the end of 2007, that was not really the case. It may actually get back to that, as well, though we've got some time before that occurs. Why, you ask? It has to do with the nature of the transmission signal (bandwidth). Most consumers have heard of bandwidth and have at least a tentative knowledge of what they think it might be.
There is a certain frequency range (bandwidth) where HD TV signals can be transmitted. Until the end of last year, that frequency range was much less than it is today. The general premise behind this problem is that the more channels offered, the more bandwidth is used. The more bandwidth used, the more compressed the signals must be to cram everything into that frequency range. Think of it like packing for vacation; you only have so much room in that suitcase. The more clothing you want to take, the tighter you have to roll, fold and cram your clothing in order to do so.
Now, let's carry the suitcase analogy a step further. Let's say that you got a bigger suit case (a much larger one in this case!). You can comfortably fit all of your clothes in there for vacation, plus more, on top of that. Ok, how did we go from HD TV signals to clothes and suitcases? Well, the frequency range is the suitcase and the channels are the clothes. The more channels you cram into that specific bandwidth, the more you have to squish them to make them fit (not very technical, but descriptive). What this means for consumers is A)There is a limit to how many channels can be offered and B) the more channels that are offered, the lower the quality of ALL channels in the HD band.
Thankfully, DIRECTV is prepared for that eventuality and launched enough satellite repeaters that consumers don't have to worry about their signal being compressed to the point of becoming standard definition TV, at least for now. DIRECTV HD programming now has the capabilities to offer up to 150 national HD channels and 1500 local HD channels, though the currently top out around just under 100 national channels. Does this sound like limitless growth potential to you? Well, yes and no. While there is incredible potential, currently, what happens as we near that mark? The more channels added, the lower the signal quality, remember? While 1600 channel capability sounds impressive (and it is), what happens when we get ¾'s of that?
By that point in time, DIRECTV plans to have more satellites in orbit, more methods of amplifying bandwidth and maintaining signal integrity. In short, they're on it and they anticipate success. According to their development team, we'll be able to enjoy the full benefits of HD programming without the worry of compressed signal.
Whitney Alen is a DIRECTV expert and has over 10 years experience in the satellite TV industry.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Whitney_Alen
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