A TechLore "Ask the Experts" Question...

Question:

Is a 1991 vintage LXI TV with audio & video jacks likely to suppport DVD? I do not have the original controller, so I use a Radio Shack 15-1931 3-in-1 controller instead.

-submitted by Gene Norris

Answer:

Even if your television is of an older era than the DVD format, your TV will still be capable to show you images from a DVD player. The DVD video format is based on the NTSC standard, though it has many enhancements that will only be apparent on newer widescreen digital televisions. Even so, the quality over VHS will be easily visible.

As longs as your TV has a composite video input (the yellow jack, accompanied by a red and white for audio), you will no problem connecting your player out of the box. For others that have no composite input, you'll be able to connect the DVD player to a device called an "RF-modulator", which will allow the DVD player to be connected to a TVs coaxial input. These modulators run between 10 and 30 dollars at most electronic stores.

In your specific case, not having the original remote may cause a headache for you. If you connect the player to the composite A/V jacks, you'll need to be able to switch the input on your TV to that source. If this function is not available on either your remote or a hard button on the front of the TV, then you'll need to connect the DVD player to an RF-modulator as mentioned above. You would then view your DVD image on channel 3 or 4, depending on your configuration.

Matt Whitlock - Editor, TechLore.com

Did You Know...

Ready to abandon that rusty old VCR for a shiny new DVD player. There are many difference, so read "Upgrading from VHS to DVD" to help you learn more about common DVD features.

Commercial movies are filmed in different shapes, which can impact how a DVD movie will fit your home TV screen. Read "How various DVD aspect ratios will appear on your TV screen" to learn more.

While You're At It...

Take a moment to get that new DVD image looking it's best by adjusting your TVs video controls. Read "How to use your televisions video controls" to help you get that picture looking perfect.