Maybe you have already purchased your TV. But will you really be watching High Definition? Many people are surprised to learn that while it's a good picture, it may not be high definition.

How can you be sure?

How to be sure you are watching the game in all its high def glory...

1. Do you have a high definition capable TV? (720p, 1080i or 1080 p resolution)
(see page 61 & 62 of the Home Electronics Survival Guide)

2. Do you have a high definition source? Have you ordered a high definition satellite service (If you previously had satellite you will need a new high definition satellite box and possibly new dish to point to the satellite that sends the high definition channels.)

"Digital cable" does not mean high definition. Here too you must have a cable box capable of high definition channels and you must tune to those appropriate channels. (see page 30 of the Home Electronics Survival Guide)

Do you live where you can receive an over the air ("ota") signal? Can you simply use an antenna? Be sure your TV has a built-in "ATSC tuner" (that's an HDTV tuner).

Check on antennaweb.org to see what type of antenna to use from your home.
(NOTE: it is the UHF antenna that receives the high def stations--that is the round or hdtv antenna or the arrow shape on a rooftop antenna.)

3. Are you tuned in to a high definition channel? High definition signals are 16x9 (widescreen) and have dolby digital sound. You may be able to tell by choosing the "HD" channel guide, or there may be "HD" onscreen during the program. Or you just may be able to tell because of the amazing details.Check for HDTV programming at www.titantv.com (Type in your zipcode then choose "DTV" or the type of service you have from the drop down menu. High Definition programs are marked with "HD." ). Over the air stations are found in the UHF band (above channel 13) and have extensions like "44.1" --note, some tuners allow you to tune into your old analog numbers when using the digital tuner (like channel "4" for instance) and it will appear as channel 4. If it's on the digital tuner (check your manual), it is masking the channel's true identity for your comfort and habit--use other telltales like those above to be more certain.

4. You must use an HDTV connection to your HDTV source, with a cable that will send the High Definition signal. Component video cables, a DVI cable or HDMI (best) are needed to transmit the full HD picture and sound. (see pages 97-101 of the Home Electronics Survival Guide)

5. You may need to change the HDTV setup on your high definition cable or satellite receiver. Check in the menu for HDTV setup or "video options" or HDTV options. You 'll want to be sure the box is sending an output of 720p or 1080i in 16 x9 (if you have a widescreen TV).