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Progressive scan displays all the scan lines in a video frame together. The “p” in a label such as 1080p means progressive; the number identifies the scan-line count. The “i” in 1080i means interlaced, a different method that sends the even and odd lines in separate fields.
What progressive scan means
A progressive-scan signal presents the even and odd scan lines together as one complete video frame. Sony describes it as displaying “both the even and odd scan lines (the entire video frame) on the TV at the same time” in its progressive-scan explanation.
Interlaced video divides those lines into two fields: one contains the even lines and the other the odd lines. Together, the fields make a frame. The labels use “p” for progressive and “i” for interlaced.
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The number refers to the scan-line count; the letter describes the scanning method. The letter does not, by itself, indicate higher resolution. For example, Sony lists both 1080i and 1080p as 1920×1080, while 720p is 1280×720:
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| Format | Scan method | Example dimensions |
|---|---|---|
| 720p | Progressive | 1280×720 |
| 1080i | Interlaced | 1920×1080 |
| 1080p | Progressive | 1920×1080 |
These examples, from Sony’s format explanation, illustrate the notation rather than establish a universal picture-quality ranking. Image quality also depends on the source, video processing, display, and motion. Compare the resolution and scan method separately.
Why scan type can matter on a TV
Flat-panel displays work with progressive images. If the incoming video is interlaced, the display may need to deinterlace it—combine or process the separate fields into a progressive image. The ITU’s technical material on deinterlacing provides general context for this conversion; it does not establish what a particular TV accepts or what broadcasters currently transmit.
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The frame or field rate is another part of a video format, separate from the p/i distinction. Sony’s frame-rate explanation gives examples including 24p, 30p, 60p, 30i, and 60i. A format label alone does not confirm that a particular source and TV are compatible.
Check compatibility when a picture is missing
If a source device’s output format does not match a mode supported by the TV, you may see no picture or an unexpected signal. Check the manuals for both devices for supported formats, then verify the source’s output setting. Sony also recommends checking the output and supported signal when the displayed resolution is unexpected in its signal troubleshooting guidance.
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Example: a DVD player set to progressive output
On some older DVD setups, enabling progressive output can leave the TV without a picture if the TV does not support that input mode. Check the DVD player’s output setting and the TV’s supported inputs; if needed, disable progressive mode on the player. Sony describes matching the signal type and disabling progressive mode as troubleshooting steps in its DVD player guidance. The exact controls and supported modes vary by model.
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- TV, simplified: With setup that only takes minutes, a simple-to-navigate Home Screen, and an uncluttered remote control that does all you need—Roku makes it easier to watch the TV you love.
- A world of free entertainment: Enjoy a huge selection of free live TV, news, sports, movies, shows, and much more—all just a click away.
- More streaming, less searching: With personalized picks right on your Home Screen, quick access to the sports and entertainment you watch most, and fast and easy search in one place—the days of endless scrolling are over.
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