What is a DVD player's Progressive Scan?

[Kenji4861]

I just saw that some of the best DVD players have a function called "progressive scan". What is it?

 

[Elledan]

Opposite of 'interlaced'

 

[Hayabusa Rider]

There are 2 ways to draw a frame on a tv screen. The usual method is to draw the first, then the third then the fifth, etc until the bottom of the frame is reached. Then it starts re-drawing the even lines (2,4, and so on). This happens so quickly that you do not see it. This is interlaced mode. DVDs fill a frame with 480 lines, so this mode is commonly abbreviated 480i. Now progressive scan DVDs start at the top and quickly draw one line after another (1,2,3 etc) until they fill the frame. This results in a clear image, with better color and detail

So you ask why do the interlace thing at all? That is because that is how ALL broadcasts in the US were transmitted because of technical limitations when the standard was created 50 or so years ago (perhaps longer). You watch standard analog broadcasts, then you are watching interlaced video.

Unless your tv is digital and has progressive digital inputs you cannot watch in progressive modes. If you have such a tv or are planning to buy one, get progressive. It makes a world of difference. I have it and love the thing.

 

[Sepen]

<< There are 2 ways to draw a frame on a tv screen. The usual method is to draw the first, then the third then the fifth, etc until the bottom of the frame is reached. Then it starts re-drawing the even lines (2,4, and so on). This happens so quickly that you do not see it. This is interlaced mode. DVDs fill a frame with 480 lines, so this mode is commonly abbreviated 480i. Now progressive scan DVDs start at the top and quickly draw one line after another (1,2,3 etc) until they fill the frame. This results in a clear image, with better color and detail

So you ask why do the interlace thing at all? That is because that is how ALL broadcasts in the US were transmitted because of technical limitations when the standard was created 50 or so years ago (perhaps longer). You watch standard analog broadcasts, then you are watching interlaced video.

Unless your tv is digital and has progressive digital inputs you cannot watch in progressive modes. If you have such a tv or are planning to buy one, get progressive. It makes a world of difference. I have it and love the thing. >>




Very insightful explanation, thanks!