United Kingdom 
TV Jargon Buster
Don't know your HD from your LED? Baffled at the mention of Blu-ray or Wi-Fi? We're here to help!
We've carefully put together this guide to help you understand some of the more widely used technology terms. From different TV product types to specific functions and features, this glossary breaks down the jargon to give clear and simple explanations. So now you can make sure you know what's what next time you make a technology purchase.
0-9
2.1
2.1 is a basic sound system that comprises two speakers left and right of your screen, plus a subwoofer for the low frequency sounds (the ".1" in 2.1).
24p
This means that your television can handle video formats that operate at 24 frames per second (fps). Most UK DVD / Blu-ray discs use the PAL video system which operates at 25fps. However, 24fps is the exact speed of film content, which means that if you're watching content from a 24p source (usually a 24p Blu-ray disc) it will be more accurate to the actual film footage.
3D Compatible / 3D Ready TVs
As 3D movies become more and more popular at the cinema, studios, broadcasters and video game manufacturers are also seeking to increase the availability of 3D content on Blu-ray discTM, high definition television channels and high definition games titles. As well as a 3D-Ready TV, you'll need special 3D glasses to view the content (often sold separately), a Blu-ray DiscTM player / games console that's capable of playing 3D discs and an HDMI v1.4 connecting cable.
5.1
5.1 is a surround sound system that comprises five speakers – three speakers positioned left, middle and right of your screen and two additional speakers positioned rear left and rear right of your room, plus a subwoofer for the low frequency sounds (the ".1" in 5.1).
7.1
A surround sound system that comprises seven speakers - three speakers positioned left, middle and right of your screen, two speakers positioned rear left and rear right of your room, two speakers positioned to the side of your room, plus a subwoofer for the low frequency sounds (the ".1" in 7.1). Due to the advanced nature of this format, 7.1 is currently only to be found on Blu-ray discs.
A-C
Anamorphic Video
A number of DVDs & Blu-ray DiscsTM feature the phrase "Enhanced for 16:9 Televisions" or "Enhanced for Widescreen TVs" on the packaging. This means that the content (usually a film) has been specially treated to look much better on a 16:9 widescreen television, than on a traditional 4:3 television. In the case of a film that has been photographed in a 1.85:1 ratio, the black bars that traditionally appear at the top and bottom on a 4:3 television will be substantially smaller, perhaps even invisible. A film that has been photographed in a very wide format (commonly known as 'Scope'), with an aspect ratio of 2.35:1 or 2.39:1, will still have black bars at the top and bottom but the picture resolution is much improved in comparison to a 4:3 television.
Aspect Ratio
An aspect ratio describes the ratio of the width of the image compared to the height of the image. To demonstrate how aspect ratios work, let's use as an example the most common older aspect ratio of 4:3.
Aspect ratios work by breaking down an image size into equal parts. So let's break down the 4:3 ratio. By taking the ratio at face value and theorising that the image is, for example, 4 inches wide, the height of the image will be 3 inches. Similarly, if we take the 16:9 widescreen TV ratio at face value and break it down in the same way, the image will be 16 inches wide and 9 inches tall.
However, TV screen sizes are usually described by the number of pixels they are capable of displaying. Full HD 1080p TVs are now almost the industry standard. The 1080p refers to the vertical pixel count of a single line of the screen. The horizontal pixel count of a single line of the screen for a Full HD 1080p TV is 1920 pixels. By dividing the width by the height, we calculate the aspect ratio – 1920 / 1080 = 1.78. This gives us an aspect ratio of 1.78:1 which is equivalent to 16:9. The 16:9 is calculated by multiplying the width part of the original aspect ratio until whole numbers are returned, ie 1.78 x 2, 1.78 x 3, 1.78 x 4 and so on. So, in the case of 16:9, 1.78 x 9 = 16 and consequently the ratio is 16:9.
Some DVDs and Blu-ray discsTM contain content at different ratios to the now standard 16:9 aspect ratio. Therefore, in order to properly display the content, black bars appear on the screen. For 4:3 content, the black bars will appear on the left and right sides of the screen. When watching 2.35:1 / 2.39:1 film content, (a very wide format commonly known as 'Scope'), the TV will display black bars on the top and bottom areas of the screen. This is because Scope film content is so wide that when the TV displays the full width of the image, a blank space is created as the image isn't as tall as the screen. Hence, the black bars appear at the top and bottom to fill in the gaps.
Backlight
A LCD requires illumination to display images on the screen. The backlight illuminates the screen from either the back or the side. The most common types of backlights are ELPs (Electroluminescent Panel) and CCFLs (Cold Cathode Fluorescent Lamp).
However, recent advancements in LED technology mean that LED (Light Emitting Diode) backlighting systems are becoming more common on more expensive TVs with a larger screen size. Please see our section on LED TV (LED backlighting) for more information.
BBE
BBE is a sound technology conceived by Barcus Berry Electronics (BBE, Inc.). The system uses a unique circuit to process audio tracks before they pass through the loudspeakers. This circuit seeks to correct frequency time delays and increase the clarity of high and low frequencies, which results in a more detailed and crisp sound. Audio containing sharp noises, such as plucked and percussive instruments (drums, guitar, piano etc), sound more focused whilst sound effects, such as explosions and gunshots, sound more realistic.
Blu-ray Disc TM
A plastic optical disc predominantly used to store pre-recorded high definition content, such as movies and television programmes. Because the format relies upon a different type of laser to read the disc (a blue 405 nanometre laser compared to the red 650 nanometre laser used to read DVDs) Blu-ray discs can hold much more content. A standard single-layered Blu-ray disc can store up to 25GB of content and a standard dual-layered Blu-ray disc can store up to 50GB of content. The image quality can be greatly improved when compared to standard definition DVDs and Blu-ray discs can also hold a greater number of audio tracks, again with improved quality.
CI Card Slot
A Common Interface card slot allows a CI card to be inserted into the TV via a Conditional Access Module (CAM). CI Cards are predominately used by companies that offer subscription-based access to premium TV content, such as the ESPN sports channel. When the card is inserted into the slot, the TV is able to decrypt the scrambled signal and the channel can be accessed normally.
Component Video Connection
A component video connection transmits analogue and digital video signals through three separate wires. The most common version of component video is called YPbPr component video. This system splits the video information into three: the "Y" cable transmits brightness (luma) and sync data; the "Pb" cable transmits the difference between the colour blue and the brightness signal; and the "Pr" cable transmits the difference between the colour red and the brightness signal. Put simply, splitting the video information into three for transmission results in a cleaner and higher quality image than composite video or SCART. Therefore, the component video is considered the best analogue connection available. Although it can also be used to transmit high definition signals, the component connection is becoming increasingly redundant due to the standardisation of the HDMI connection.
Composite Video Connection
This is most basic of all video connections. It's a 1-pin analogue video cable system and therefore not suitable for connecting high definition devices, such as Blu-ray players or modern games consoles, such as the PlayStation 3TM. For standard definition devices, the composite video connector has largely been replaced by SCART and / or component connections.
Contrast Ratios (Static & Dynamic)
A TV's static contrast ratio is the default measure of the difference between the most extreme white colour and the most extreme black colour on the screen. The greater the ratio (ie the wider the number) the better and more vivid the picture will be. A TV with a contrast ratio of 100:1 will display a brightness level of the white colours 100 times brighter than the blacks.
The dynamic contrast ratio relies on a TV's in-built system of adjusting the backlight level to better match the content that is being displayed. For example, if a scene within a film is set at night, the TV will turn the backlight down so that the image isn't oversaturated with white light. However, this can also affect colours and tones, so the image displayed might not be a 100% faithful rendering of the original image.
D-F
DLNA
A television that is DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) compatible means that it can be connected to a home network to share content. For example, the television could be used to play music, video or photo slideshows that are stored on a DLNA enabled PC or laptop.
Electronic Programme Guide (EPG)
An EPG is an accessible on-screen guide which shows the programme schedule of TV channels. Some TVs have programme guides that allow you to record programmes and /or add reminders so you don't miss your favourite shows (dependent on TV model).
Full HD (1080p)
This means that the television is capable of displaying pictures at the current maximum high definition resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. This is especially important if you have a Blu-ray player or a high definition gaming console, which can transmit 1080p signals. The "p" stands for progressive scan, which means that the television will create the picture by displaying each horizontal line in sequence rather than by alternate odd and even horizontal lines (a process called interlacing). This makes for a smoother, more cinematic experience. The total pixel count for a 1080p resolution screen is 2.07 million individual pixels (or dots). Please see our sections on progressive scan and interlaced scan for more information.
Frame Refresh Rate / Motion Technology
This is a process of smoothing the television image by adding in additional frames. This has the effect of reducing flicker and creating a more film-like experience. The refresh rate is measured in hertz (hz) and the general rule of thumb is that the higher the frame refresh rate, the better (ie smoother) the motion will be rendered. However, the adding of additional frames can sometimes cause sound and image to go out of sync when used with a separate audio system.
Freesat
Freesat is similar to Freeview, but you'll need a satellite dish to receive the broadcasts. Newer TVs can have Freesat built-in, but you can also purchase a separate set-top box and connect it to your set via a SCART, Component or HDMI connection (depending on the model). And, of course, you'll need a satellite dish!
Freesat HD
As well as the standard channels available via Freesat, you can also receive the increasing number of high definition channels. Newer TVs can have Freeview HD built-in, but you can also purchase a separate set-top box and connect it to your set via an HDMI connection. And, of course, you'll need a satellite dish!
FreeviewTM
Freeview is the most easily accessible way of receiving digital television broadcasts. When the analogue TV signal is turned off in 2012, Freeview will be the only way to receive terrestrial television broadcasts through a standard aerial. If your TV doesn't have a built-in Freeview tuner, you'll need to buy a set-top box to decode the signal. The significant advantage that Freeview has over subscription-based rivals is that it's free once you have the necessary equipment in place – there are no additional fees or monthly charges.
FreeviewTM HD
Similar to standard Freeview, although this package includes the increasing number of high definition TV channels. As before, there's only a one-off charge for the equipment, no monthly subscriptions or charges. Newer TVs can have Freeview HD built-in, but you can also purchase a separate set-top box and connect it to your set via an HDMI connection.
FreeviewTM +
Freeview+ is identical to the standard service provided by Freeview, but you'll get the added feature of being able to pause and record live TV and radio. Newer TVs can have Freeview+ built-in, but you can also purchase a separate set-top box and connect it to your set via a SCART, Component or HDMI connection (depending on the model).
G-I
HDMI Connection
HDMI stands for High Definition Multimedia Interface and is a 19-pin digital connection system capable of transferring uncompressed high definition video signals and multiple channels of sound to your television or monitor. HDMI is the standard system used for connecting high definition devices such as Blu-ray DiscTM players, advanced video games consoles and high definition camcorders. It can also carry standard definition signals and so can be used to connect DVD players and set-top boxes. If your TV is capable of displaying 3D content, you'll need an HDMI v1.4 cable.
HD DVD Disc
A high definition disc format once viewed as an alternative to Blu-ray. HD DVD discs are no longer manufactured and the format is now considered obsolete.
HD TV Transmissions (1080i)
1080i (1920 x 1080i) is the format used for most high definition television broadcasts. The 1080 stands for the display resolution – there are 1080 horizontal lines of pixels. The "i" stands for interlaced scan. If you have a Full HD 1080p set, the television will automatically de-interlace the signal and display it in its full resolution. If you have an HD Ready set (with either a 720p or 768p resolution), the television will de-interlace the picture and then downscale it to fit the native resolution of the set. Downscaling can mean a reduction in picture quality, but this does depend on the other technologies and systems that are built into your television.
HD Ready (720p / 768p)
This is the basic high definition resolution standard. 720p / 768p sets have 720 or 768 horizontal lines of pixels respectively. The "p" stands for progressive scan, which means that the television will create the picture by displaying each horizontal line in sequence rather than by alternate odd and even horizontal lines (a process called interlacing). This makes for a smoother, more cinematic experience. Some 720p / 768p TVs will accept 1080p signals, but will automatically downscale the images to fit the TV's native resolution of 720p / 768p.
The total pixel count for a set with a 1280 x 720p resolution is 0.9 million individual pixels (or dots). The total pixel count for a set with a 1366 x 768p resolution is 1.05 million pixels. This means that 1080p (1920 x 1080 pixels) content will not be as sharp or smooth as when viewed on a Full HD 1080p set, although other features, such as an increased frame refresh rate and the quality of the video processor, can mean that a good 720p / 768p television is capable of performing better than a poor 1080p model. And although 1080p is fast becoming the industry standard, it's hard to tell the difference between HD Ready and Full HD content on TVs with a screen size of 32" or below. Please see our sections on progressive scan and interlaced scan for more information.
Interlaced Scan
This is a display system that processes images by scanning each horizontal line (or row) alternately, ie from the top of the screen to the bottom. Put simply, the first line is scanned, then the third, then the fifth and so on. The entire image is rendered every 30th of a second. Because the lines are displayed alternately, interlaced video can sometimes display artefacts when trying to handle fast motion content, such as sports or games.
IPTV
The latest TV innovation, IPTV stands for Internet Protocol TV. This service means that when you sign-up with an IPTV provider, you can receive television through your internet broadband connection rather than through a set-top box or traditional indoor / outdoor aerial. The three main services available via IPTV are live TV, Video on Demand (VoD) and Interactive TV (iTV).
J-L
LCD TV
LCD stands for Liquid-Crystal Display. LCD TVs are much slimmer than traditional CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) televisions and more suited to the now standard rectangular display ratio of 16:9 (1.78:1). TVs with much larger diagonal screen sizes are made more feasible due to LCD technology because of the slimmer design it allows.
LED TV (LED Backlighting)
LED are actually LCD screens with an LED backlighting system. LED stands for Light Emitting Diode. There are two LED backlighting systems: Dynamic RGB LEDs sit behind the main LCD panel; white edge-LEDs are incorporated into the edge of the screen and rely on a diffuser panel to spread the light behind the LCD screen. The technical benefits of an LCD TV with an LED backlight are images with a greater dynamic contrast ratio, a wider colour palette, less pollution upon disposal and lower power consumption (typically 20% to 30%). TVs that feature edge-LED technology can also be very slim – sometimes a thickness of approximately one inch is possible. Please see our section on Backlight for more information.
M-O
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P-S
PAL / NTSC / SECAM
PAL stands for Phase Alternate Line and is the television broadcast system used in the UK. NTSC stands for National Television System Committee and is the television broadcast system used in North America and other parts of the world. SECAM stands for Séquentiel Couleur à Mémoire (Sequential Colour with Memory) and is the television broadcast system used in France. Most new TVs are capable of receiving signals of all three systems. The three systems use different types of encoding / decoding to deliver the picture and sound to a TV. There are differences in quality across all three systems, but if you're living in the UK you can rest assured that your TV will be able to display the UK broadcast signal.
PC Monitor Connection
The port allows you to connect your laptop or computer to the TV by using a 15-pin analogue VGA cable. Newer models of computer might also have an HDMI port for the same purpose and will also transmit audio.
Pixel
A pixel is a single part or element of a digital picture (the term pixel is derived from "picture element"). Millions of pixels of different colours make up a digital image. A television with a Full HD display (1920 x 1080 lines of resolution) is capable of displaying approximately 2.07 million individual pixels, whereas a 720p model (1280 x 720p) is capable of displaying only approximately 9,021,600 pixels.
Plasma TVs
Plasma (PDP) TVs use a combination of gasses to produce a picture. When switched on, the electric charge turns the gasses into a plasma which produces the picture. Plasma TVs are capable of displaying more colours with a greater dynamic contrast ratio than either LCD TV or CRT TVs. There's is also little or no motion blur and the viewing angle is far greater. The drawbacks of plasma technology are increased weight, higher power consumption than LCD TVs and susceptibility to glare when used in brightly lit rooms.
Progressive Scan
This is a display system that processes images by scanning each horizontal line (or row) sequentially, ie from the top of the screen to the bottom in order. Put simply, the first line is scanned, then the second, then the third and so on. This results in a smoother, more detailed picture because the whole image is rendered every 60th of a second. Progressive scan also reduces on-screen flicker.
PVR
This stands for Personal Video Recorder and has replaced VHS as the primary method of recording TV and radio shows. Relying on a hard disk drive rather than a magnetic tape system, it comes with additional benefits, such as being able to pause live TV and radio and better picture quality. Also, because the content is saved on a hard disk drive rather than on a video cassette, it will not suffer from quality loss due to repeat plays.
RF Connection
This is the standard TV aerial connection. Indoor / outdoor / portable aerials use this connection and a coaxial cable to send analogue and digital TV signals to the tuner. If you use a separate set-top box to receive FreeviewTM or FreeviewTM HD signals, you'll need to connect the box to the aerial as well as to the TV.
SCART Connection
A scart connection is an analogue 21-pin cable system capable of transmitting both picture and sound. It's the most popular method of connecting standard definition devices, such as VCRs, DVD players, games consoles and digital set-top boxes. RGB scart connections are the best quality of scart connection because they carry the red, green and blue image signals separately. However, scart connections are now becoming less popular due to the widespread adoption of digital connections, such as HDMI, which are capable of transmitting high definition visuals and multiple channels of sound.
SD Card
A SD (Secure Digital) card is a memory card format used for storing a variety of media, most commonly images, videos and music files. The cards are often used to bolster the internal storage capacity of devices such as digital cameras, digital camcorders and mobile phones. Standard SD cards are capable of storing up to 4 GB of data. SDHC (Secure Digital High Capacity) cards can hold between 4 GB and 32 GB of data. SDXC (Secure Digital eXtended Capacity) cards can store up to 2 TiB (tebibytes) of data.
Soundbar
A soundbar is a 2.0 or 2.1. audio system that is usually placed at the bottom of a TV. This long rectangular bar consists of at least two speakers – one left channel and one right channel – whilst some systems add an additional subwoofer (the ".1" part of 2.1. systems) to carry the low frequency bass sounds. Soundbars can give better sound than standard TV speakers and are also useful for delivering virtual surround sound if you don't have the space for a fully comprehensive 5.1 system.
Subwoofer
This is a separate speaker that carries only low frequency (bass) sounds. It is also frequently referred to as the Low Frequency Effect (LFE) channel. A subwoofer gives any sound system a real boost and works very well with blockbuster / action / special effects movies.
T-W
THX
THX is a video and sound standards system originally developed by Lucasfilm for both theatrical and home viewing. The standard ensures that the video / audio played back from certificated hardware products or media, such as DVDs and Blu-ray discs, accurately reproduces images and sound to the standard which was intended by the creators.
Upscaling and Downscaling
All HD Ready and Full HD televisions have an in-built scaling system. This means that any standard definition content (Freeview or DVD) will be converted (or upscaled) to match the display resolution of the television. While standard definition content will never look as good as true high definition content, an upscaled image can look far more defined and detailed than when viewed on a standard definition set.
If a television is not Full HD 1080p (ie it's a 720p / 768p set) and is used to view 1080p content (for example a 1080p Blu-ray movie), the TV will downscale the image to its native resolution eg 1366 x 768p. This means that the image will not be as sharp or defined as it would be if viewed on a Full HD 1080p screen. However, for screen sizes of 32" or less, it's hard to tell the difference.
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is a shorthand term used to describe a product capable of linking to a WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) using industry standard IEEE 802.11 technology. If a TV is Wi-Fi enabled, you can use it to play music, videos and view images that are saved on a Wi-Fi enabled computer.
X-Z
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