Coming to a TV near you: changes in technology give viewers more options than ever.

With the overload of technology, it's easy for consumers to overload. HDTV (high-definition television) and DVRs (digital video recorders) are both acronyms for products that require a dictionary to understand--and these products are more popular than ever among consumers.

The television, once referred to as the "idiot box, now provides smart options to enhance the overall viewing experience. HDTV offers high-resolution images in a widescreen format with digitally enhanced surround sound.

To get such superior quality, you need a high-definition monitor and an integrated HDTV set or an HDTV tuner. Also, be aware that having the right equipment is just the first step. Consumers will also need to make sure that their cable or satellite companies offer high-definition programming. Cable companies such as Adelphia Communications Corp. and Comcast and satellite companies such as DISH Network and DirecTV charge additional fees for HD programming packages and the special HD set top box. In the next three years, this type of transmission will become standard as a result to a recent Federal Communications Commission mandate.

If you happen to miss your favorite shows, have no fear, DVRs are here. These devices work like VCRs, but without the need for a tape.

DVRs are sold based on recording capabilities that range from 30 to 320 hours. Prices vary depending on quality and the amount of storage capacity desired. Equipment can also be leased from local satellite and cable companies for monthly service and usage fees.

TO TV OR NOT TO TV

PROS                                 CONS

DVR

Can pause programming without        Many DVRs require monthly
missing anything. Cost savings is    subscriptions to record shows.
tremendous because you don't have    Hard drive is not meant for
to buy discs.                        permanent storage.

DVD

Programming can be recorded on to    Discs are limited on space,
inexpensive discs. Easy to connect   Recording on non re-writable
to other electronics like DVRs.      discs can be expensive.

CABLE

Can support 200 or more channels.    Requires digital set top box from
Although Satellite is growing in     cable company. Additional costs
popularity, cable is more popular.   including franchise fees, taxes,
                                     and pay-per-view services.

SATELLITE

Quality is generally better          Interference from rain, snow, or
because it's 100% digital. Offers    trees can impact reception. Local
more international and sports        channels are not included in the
programming.                         packages.

* SDTV

Considerably less expensive than     The 480 scan lines are visible on
higher model TVs.                    larger TVs, resulting in poor
                                     picture quality. May not be
                                     compatible with higher-end
                                     electronic equipment.

* HDTV

Displays high-definition             Usually carries a much-higher
broadcasts in better resolution.     price tag than standard TV sets.
More scan lines offer finer          Must have the right equipment for
resolution.                          optimal use.

* SDTV means standard-definition TV. HDTV means high-definition TV.

SOURCE: ABOUT.COM, DISH-NETWORK.COM, WISEGEEK.COM