by Jennifer Claerr

Created on: May 07, 2010   Last Updated: May 06, 2011

Changing the aspect ratio on an HDTV can seem like a major challenge if you're not technically inclined. Using the wrong aspect ratio can make the picture on the screen look distorted, and setting it right again can be frustrating. However, setting the aspect ratio on a VIZIO HDTV is a fairly simple process. It's important to make sure that the input from the source, such as your cable set top box, satellite receiver, DVD or Blu-ray player or game system is properly set before attempting to set the VIZIO HDTV's aspect ratio. Once you understand the basics of television aspect ratios, you can set them properly with relative ease.

Understanding TV Aspect Ratios

There are two basic aspect ratios for television signals. Standard definition analog signals typically have a 4:3 aspect ratio. However, digital and high definition television signals have an aspect ratio of 16:9. A VIZIO HDTV has four aspect ratios to choose from. The "Normal" is for signals with a standard 4:3 aspect ratio and "Wide" is for widescreen 16:9 signals. "Panoramic" is a widescreen format that stretches the outside of the picture while keeping the center at a standard definition ratio and "Zoom" increases the size of the picture.

Choose the Connection Method

VIZIO HDTVs have several different connection options. They include HDMI, component, composite (A/V) and coaxial. HDMI should be used for high definition or other widescreen sources such as an HD receiver, a digital antenna, a game system, a DVD with HD upconversion, a Blu-ray player or computer. Component video can provide high-quality picture for both standard and widescreen signals if HDMI is not an option. Composite is your next best option for analog transmissions. Coaxial radio frequency (RF) cable can carry both digital and analog signals in both standard and widescreen aspect ratios. Always turn off your VIZIO HDTV before making the connection to the source device. When you turn the HDTV on, select the correct input source on the remote control.

Set the Aspect Ratio on the Source Device

Find the user manual for your cable box, satellite receiver, DVD or Blu-ray player, game system or other source devices. If you can't find the manual for your devices, you may be able to find them on the manufacturer's website. Set the device to the aspect ratio you want. Keep in mind that certain devices may change the aspect ratio automatically. For example, your cable box or satellite receiver may switch from a 16:9 aspect ratio to 4:3 when you

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