A scaler or video processor converts one resolution to another through the use of various mathematical techniques that determines what a video signal should look like at a different resolution. It is considered a brainy bundle of chips and software as it facilitates upconversion and downconversion. Not surprisingly, upconversion is converting a lower resolution to a higher one while downconversion is the exact opposite.

There are benefits derived from the work of a scaler. Video signals are matched to the best display resolution for a particular model of HDTV, regardless of the signal’s original resolution. Standard definition video signals are also upconverted to a higher resolution to look closer to HDTV than standard