Microsoft Corp and Compaq Computer Corp have now compromised over high definition digital TV and agreed to add direct support for the 720 progressive scan formats favored by the television companies, at all frame rates. The move, say the two, is based both on the positive momentum for progressive transmission formats shown recently by broadcasters, and on recent technology advances. Broadcasters such as ABC and Fox, local television stations, and the US Department of Defense have all recently committed to use progressive scan technology over the TV industry’s traditional interlaced displays, which aren’t suitable for static graphics text and interactive services and programming. But the TV companies favor the lower resolution Advanced Television Standards Committee’s 720/60Pformat, even though many have said that they will work towards Microsoft and Compaq’s ultimate goal of 1080 progressive displays. Microsoft and Compaq now expect consumers to be able to buy PC add-in cards from third-party companies that support all 480 and 720 progressive formats by the end of this year. รก
