In video terminology, what does the 'p' stand for in 720p and 1080p?

In video terminology, the 'p' in 720p and 1080p stands for "Progressive." This indicates that the video format displays images progressively rather than interlaced. In progressive scanning, each frame of video is drawn sequentially, line by line, which helps to produce a clearer, more stable picture, especially during motion. This method contrasts with interlaced video, where the odd and even lines of each frame are drawn alternately. As a result, progressive formats like 720p and 1080p are often favored in modern video applications, particularly for high-definition content, as they create a smoother and more detailed viewing experience.

Understanding this distinction is critical for professionals in the AV installation field, as the choice of video format can greatly affect the quality of the visual output in a given setup.