How to Buy an HDTV

The new revolution in television is HDTV. More and more network and cable stations are using this format and prices keep dropping. If you're in the market for a new television, HD is definitely something to consider.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Internet access
• Computer

1. Measure the area where you intend to put the TV. Be sure to only look for TVs that will fit in the allotted space.
2. Determine what type of HDTV is for you. There are many different styles: direct-view (regular tube), LCD, plasma and rear-projection TVs. Each has its own different qualities that are appealing.
3. Consider what display type of HDTV is for you. These TVs come in HD ready (can display regular TV broadcasts on their own), Integrated HDTV (comes equipped with an ATSC digital tuner that offer the ability to broadcast network HD programs on its own, but not satellite or cable without a box) and Digital-Cable-Ready (DCR) sets (utilize a cable card directly in the TV to receive HD programs from cable or satellite companies).
4. Search the Internet for TVs that match the qualities you want. Chain store Web sites like Best Buy, Circuit City, Target and Wal-Mart can get you started finding what's available and comparing prices before shopping in the store. Web sites such as Consumer Reports can help you determine the best buys.
5. Hit the stores and check out the TVs. Don’t check only the electronic qualities of the TV, but its aesthetic qualities also. Talk to store personnel about HDTVs. Ask questions about TV performance, ease of use and bang for your buck. You may also want to find out what their bestseller is and how it's warranty works.

Tips & Warnings

• Take time to make your decision. This TV is a significant investment and will hopefully last you many years. Be sure your choice has most of the qualities you want at the best price. If you can hold off, you may want to sit back for a few weeks and watch prices, or buy at a time of year when TVs typically are at their lowest prices (before the Super Bowl for example).
• Buying an HDTV isn’t necessarily like TV purchasing of old. In the past you could walk into a store and buy a TV dependent strictly on its size. HD requires a little more investigation and decision-making on your part. Take all of the different factors that surround HDTV into consideration before buying.
• The biggest, most expensive HDTV isn’t necessarily the one that will make you happiest. Research is the best (and only) way to make the right decision about an HDTV.

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