A: Yes. HDTV converts analog signals from videotapes into standard-definition pictures, virtually doubling their horizontal resolution. An analog VCR can't record a program shown in high definition. Consumers need to have a digital VCR to record shows that originatein HDTV.

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Q: What if I receive my TV through cable or satellite?

A: Cable operators haven't agreed to transmit digital programming. That means about 70% of Americans who receive their shows through cable will have to use an antenna to receive digital programming from local stations.

The Consumer Electronics Manufacturers Assn. is working on color-coded maps showing the kinds of antennas needed in different regions and will make the maps available in early 1999.

Satellite TV subscribers will need to buy new equipment to receive HDTV, although the necessary equipment will vary by carrier.

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Q: What else can digital TVs do?

A: Digital signals can be manipulated in many ways, enabling broadcasters to send data over a channel lent to them by the Federal Communications Commission or to split the spectrum into several channels. Analysts don't expect interactive programming to be available for several years while broadcasters figure out how to use their digital channels.

Some possibilities include interactive programming guides that would allow viewers to choose when they want to view a particular show. Broadcasters may seek to collect information on viewers' interests and transmit specific shows or information to the viewer, Kaufhold said.

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Q: What programming will be available and when?

A: Networks don't want to spend thousands of dollars converting existing shows to HDTV and filming new ones until more people can afford the sets, said Dennis Wharton, senior vice president at the National Assn. of Broadcasters.

Broadcasters plan limited high-definition programming this season. CBS will show four National Football League games in high definition this fall. ABC plans three to four hours of high-definition programming a week. NBC said it will broadcast " The Tonight Show," "Titanic" and "Men in Black" in high definition next spring. Fox has no plans for high-definition programming.

Many of the 40 or so local stations that started broadcasting high-definition programming this month will convert existing analog shows to digital. This will eliminate the snow and ghosts in the picture, but the quality will not match programs that originate in high definition, Wharton said.

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Times staff writer Jennifer Oldham can be reached via e-mail atjennifer.oldham@latimes.com.

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