In article <mirsky-83B536.20501331012008@[EMAIL PROTECTED]
> Mirsky
<mirsky@[EMAIL PROTECTED]
> writes:
>Hi. I have a friend who recently purchased a 26" Polaroid HDTV from
>Circuit City. He also bought a digital antenna there that he hooked up
>to the television. Unfortunately, he has found that the picture of the
>tv stations often 'pixelates.' I am not sure if 'pixelate' is the
>proper term.
Acually, macroblock is a better term, though pixelate is frequently
misused for it.
> What happens is that the image on the screen breaks up
>into little squares and sometimes even freezes for a few seconds. He
>has found that it happens so often that sometimes he can't watch any of
>the stations at all.
>
>My questions: is the 'pixelation' problem one that is common with using
>an HD antenna (that is, versus cable or satellite)? Is it all the fault
>of the antenna or is part of the problem with the tv itself?
Well, first, on antennas. There are no "digital" antennas, or "hdtv"
antennas. They are antennas, just like the old ones, and they work the
same way.
You didn't say where his antenna is -- apparently it is not where the
signal is. What sort of antenna is it, and how high up is it. (Note:
if it is indoors, that is almost certainly his problem -- they belong
outside, or at least in the attic.)
Noting that antennas are not specifically digital -- how well does he
get the analog channels? (That is not a perfect test, mine are crummy
but my digital is almost always perfect.)
>One reason I am asking is that I am planning to buy a new HDTV too. I am
>thinking of getting a Sharp 32" LCD tv, model # LC-32D62U. Like my
>friend, I am planning to use the television with a digital antenna
>because i don't want to pay for cable, satellite or other pay-service
>right now. Should I expect to experience the same "pixelation" problem
>as my friend?
You should look at the various online signal prediction sites, like
www.antennaweb.org. Then put up an appropriate antenna out in the
clear, aimed to get the signals. Use good coaxial feedline, proper
connectors (well weathersealed outside), and enjoy.
Alan
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