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what is the diffrence between 1080i and 1080p when regarding high definition televisions?

what is the diffrence between 1080i and 1080p when regarding high definition televisions?

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1. The "i" means interlaced and the "p" means progressive. This refers to how the picture is assembled on the screen. When using interlacing the image is made by skipping scanning lines on the first pass, and then filling in the missing lines on the second pass. This happens quickly so you generally don't notice it. Progressive scanning means that the image is assembled in one continuous series of scans (no skipping of lines). Although the difference may be minimal, Progressive scanning generally results in a superior image. Watch that any HDTV you may be considering supports 1080p, as some cheapo models/brands don't and you might as well get the best standard that is available.
2. The classic 1080i vs 1080p argument. CNET Asia lays it out nice and easy for people to read. In the end though, they draw the same conclusion as everyone else though. If you are looking for bigger then a 60-inch, the extra resolution will make a huge difference as long as you give the HDTV the very best signal from your source. The smaller sets, lets say around 40 to 46-inches, meh, you really don't need it. If you notice a sharper picture it is probally due to the denser pixals that relate to how close you sit and not the higher resolution. Oh, and the article does point out a big stumbling block of 1080p HDTVs. Some don't accept the 1080p signal. *cough* Sony XBR1 SXRDs *cough* In the end is 1080p really that important? No, unless it is a very large screen.
3. There isn't a big difference when viewing 1080p or 1080i. But in tv's resolution, there are no 1080i tvs made anymore. There are 1080p tvs and 720p tvs which can accept a 1080i signal, but they downconvert it to 720p. So if you are looking at a tv and it says 720p, accepts 1080i, it means nothing to the viewing experience, just that the tv can display the signal, but at 720p, HD tvs can display at their native resolution only. So, it's really just a choice between 1080p and 720p when you buy a new tv. Over 37", go with 1080p, under 37", if you are sitting at least 6' away you'll be ok with 720p, sitting closer, you will see some pixels in the pic with a 720p.
4. 1080i (interlace) at about 1380 horizontal lines and 1080P (progressive) in 1980 horizontal lines. Not to many tv's in the market are in the 1080i, most you'll see is 720P and 1080P. You won't be able to tell the difference in small screen (below 46"), than if you had a big screen. It's another gimmic sales people use to sell tv's for consumers that don't know. They forget to mention the "I" and you are thinking you have the top of the line gear and infact you don't. The only 1080P source is a Blue Ray Disc movies, and none for 1080i.