How much better is HD, anyway?
Besides providing programs in widescreen (16:9) format, HD signals offer up-to five times the quality of standard definition (SD) television. HBO Family HD channels also include 5.1 Dolby Digital sound capabilities, meaning that HD broadcasts can provide the same cinema-quality sound that home-theater owners enjoy with DVDs.
Is HD available in my area?
HD offerings vary from place to place. To see which HBO and Cinemax channels are offered in HD in your area, check with your local service provider.
What format is the HBO Family HD channel in?
The HBO Family HD channel is presented in a format called 1080-line interlaced (1080i).
What additional equipment do I need?
You'll need an HD TV set to display the HD picture (standard-definition televisions can not display HD signals) and an HD source (set top box, receiver, etc.) to provide the signal to your TV screen. If you already have an HD TV set, simply ask your service provider to swap your current set-top box for a new HD set top box or receiver so that you will be able to receive HBO Family in HD.
Why are some shows marked with a 'True HD' flag on the HBO schedule?
Programming that is created in 1080i HD is labeled "True HD". Any program not originally produced in HD is upconverted by HBO to the 1080i format.
Will my standard-definition channels change or disappear because of the new HD lineup?
No. Your current standard-definition service will continue unaffected. The new HD offerings will appear on new, separate channels, which you can add to your existing service by contacting your local service provider.
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