How to Convert a 4:3 Plasma TV into Widescreen

Typically, plasma televisions have widescreen 16:9 aspect ratio. But you can also watch standard 4:3 television program on your plasma TV without worrying about your picture getting distorted or stretched to fit the widescreen ratio. The standard ratio is often shown with bars in black on sides of the image. However, there are a few steps you can take to ensure your viewing pleasure when you watch a 4:3 program on your plasma TV.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Check for the "Full" or "Just" mode as provided by your NTSC TV manufacturer. By switching to this mode, you automatically covert a 4:3 aspect ratio picture into a wide screen.

2. Limit the stretching at the center of the screen. This will ensure a better viewing quality on the widescreen.

3. Consider enlarging the image size to be larger than the screen size. This will help prevent a hazy or distorted image.

4. Try the "Zoom In" feature. It will cover the entire widescreen.

Tips & Warnings

• "Full" and "Just" mode can be called different names by different manufacturers. Check the manufacturer's information for the specific name for your plasma TV.
• It can be preferable to watch certain TV programs, such as live sports, in the original 4:3 ratio as widescreen will distort the image and your viewing experience.
• If using the sidebars for extended periods of time, you may experience a ghost-image when viewing. This can be reduced or eliminated by switching back and forth from 4:3 and widescreen mode more often.
• Putting a grey signal on your plasma TV can eliminate the ghost-image due to the widescreen conversion.
• Using the "Zoom In" feature will likely cause you to lose 30-40% of the picture.