HDTV, or High Definition Television, refers to TVs that feature a resolution of 720p or above. While HDTVs have been around for a long time now, the technology inside these sets still mystifies a lot of people.

Common HDTV resolutions are 720p, 1080i and 1080p. Most TV broadcasts are shown in 720p or 1080i. The "p" stands for progressive while the "i" stands for interlaced. Progressive content looks better than interlaced. 1080p content is often reserved for next generation video games and Blu-Ray players since optical discs can store all the extra data.

So where does 16x9 come in to play? Well, that stands for the aspect ratio of content. Widescreen content is now very popular, thanks to the advent of flat screen displays and, of course, HDTVs. Before 16x9 aspect ratios were commonly used on TVs, many programs had to be pan and scanned or letter-boxed. This meant that widescreen movies and television shows had to be cropped and effectively reframed just so they could fit 4x3 televisions.

In the mid 2000s, most HDTVs relied on S-video or component cable connections. These two connections only carry over the image, not the audio. You'd have to rely on your television's integrated speakers or hook up speakers using completely different wires. HDMI, or High Definition Media Interface, changed all that and really allowed the full quality of HDTVs to be unleashed. 

HDMI 1.4, the current standard, allows for up to 4K Ultra HD video to be shown at 30P (frames per second). 1080p 3D content can also be carried over this connection. The nifty thing about HDMI is that it carries audio and video over one single cable. Without HDMI, it's doubtful that HDTV would be as dominant a force it is today. Despite always changing, HDMI still has room to grow -- as evidenced by HDMI 2.0. This evolution of HDMI will properly support 4K content and make viewing high resolution slow-motion (60p) footage a reality.

You may be wondering what a smart TV is. Smart TV is really a buzzword for HDTVs that can connect to the Internet. You can hardwire a smart TV's internet connection via ethernet or choose to use your Wi-Fi router. Smart TVs work best when you have a fast cable Internet connection. By fast, I don't mean to say that you need blazing speeds to properly enjoy your smart TV experience, but let's face it -- more speed never hurts. DSL just isn't going to cut it in 2014.

HDTVs aren't done growing or innovating, despite the proliferation of these newer ultra HDTV sets. What trends can you look forward to being included in future HDTVs? CES 2014 showcased advanced HDTVs with curved screens, glasses-free 3-D, "smarter" TV functionality and OLED panels. These features and more may very well be included in your next HDTV purchase.

Do you still have a standard definition TV or display at home? If so, will you switch to high def anytime soon? Let me know in the comments section below.