Chasing Japan in the HDTV race

The status of high-definition television (HDTV) in Japan, Europe, and the US is examined. Japan has begun experimental broadcasts, and Europe plans experimental HDTV broadcasts in 1991, while the US is mired in disputes over just how important HDTV might be to its deteriorating consumer electronics industry. Delays in selecting a terrestrial broadcasting transmission standard for the US suggest 1993 as the earliest possible date for the start of HDTV broadcasting in the United States and 1995 as a more probable date. Problems and approaches in the US, Japan, and Europe are compared, focusing on government support and standardization.<
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