For a good time, check out this "explanation" of ATSC, the broadcast data format for HDTV. The page begins with a simple overview of the format and what it means. As you scroll down, things get progressively more complex and advanced. If you can make it to the end and still understand everything, you're a better man than I. I got about 2/3rds of the way down until the first mathematical formulas started showing up. Then I decided to get back to work. Good luck to you.