Does Your TV Need a Built-In HDTV Tuner?

Another consideration is whether your TV needs a built-in HDTV tuner. To receive digital HDTV broadcasts, the TV needs what is called an ATSC tuner. This is in contrast to the NTSC tuner used in current TVs to receive normal analog broadcasts.

You need an ATSC tuner if you want to receive HDTV broadcasts from your local television stations. An ATSC tuner is not necessary if you receive your HDTV programming through a cable or satellite system.

It's possible for a TV to be "HDTV-ready" without having an ATSC tuner. If you buy one of these sets, you have to receive your HDTV programming via cable or satellite -- which is, of course, how most of us do it.

Michael Miller is a writer and commentator on technology and digital lifestyle topics.