Rated
Dec 04 2006
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2 reviews
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radio, music
• howstuffworks.com

The "HD" in HD Radio is not an abbreviation for "High Definition." "HD" is a trademarked brand name and doesn't actually stand for anything.
HD Radio won't replace traditional radio broadcasting -- it will be offered alongside it.HD Radio sends more information over the same radio frequency by digitizing the signal. A digital signal can then be compressed by a computer, much like an MP3 is a compressed version of the much larger WAV file that is on a CD. Digitizing allows FM stations to broadcast with near-CD quality sound.
An HD Radio receiver can also zero in directly on the digital transmission, eliminating interference and signal "reflections" off of buildings. The result is clear sound without any static, pop or hiss.
The extra bandwidth of an HD Radio signal leaves room for completely separate channels operating on the same frequency. Here's how it works: Suppose your favorite radio station is 102.5 FM. When you tune in, you pick up the regular broadcast -- classic rock. Your HD Radio receiver indicates that the station is multicasting. You turn a dial to select the alternate channel, where they play nothing but blues.
I just can't wait for it to go commercial, it will be a kind of small revolution in the world of Radio.