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TV terms

Here are some terms to know if you're shopping for a high-definition TV:

ASPECT RATIO:

It refers to the width/height ratio on the screen. Wide screens are 16:9 and traditional sets are 4:3.

Cathode ray tube, the conventional technology for TV sets, as opposed to plasma and other, newer types.

These high-definitions sets look like traditional conventional sets with a cathode ray tube.

Digital light processing, a display technology that uses a chip and thousands of tiny mirrors to create the image.

Liquid crystal display, a flat-panel display.

Liquid crystal on silicon, a display chip technology.

Enhanced Definition Television, which displays a digital 480p image, but not the 720p or 1080i resolution for high definition.

High Definition Television, which displays 720p or 1080i or higher resolutions.

High-definition sets that don't include a built-in tuner. They require a cable, satellite or set-top tuner to receive digital signals.

A flat-panel display technology that uses tiny tubes filled with gas that glow to create the image, they can be up to 80 inches.

A display technology in which an image is cast onto a reflective screen. There are two choices: front or rear projection. Consumers can choose between having everything in a single unit and a system that uses separate projectors.

Standard Definition Television, which display better pictures than an analog TV but not as good as EDTV.