SolveYourProblem
HDTV Article Series
Buying
a High Definition Television (HDTV)
HDTV:
Is Bigger Better?
When you are looking for a new television,
it is easy to gravitate to the new bigger high definition
projection televisions. At first glance, they offer huge screens, perfect
for home theaters. They also offer bright, clear picture resolution.
Before putting a lot of money down to purchase that big screen,
it is important to understand whether or not bigger really
is better for HDTV and why projections TVs may not offer the
best venue for HDTV.
The
advantages of projection high definition televisions are
many. Because of the technology it uses, it can offer the viewer
a clear, true picture on a larger screen size than a plasma
or flat screen. The sets often are thinner, weigh less and
are easier to move. They also come in three different varieties-the
LCD, DLP and the LCoS to fit any home or taste. In addition,
they are generally less expensive.
LCD
micro displays are probably the most popular of the HDTV
sets. It is a rear projector that used three small LCD panels.
Each panel is less than one inch diagonal and has the capability
to produce high definition wide screen images up to 70 inches.
The LCD panels are made up of a grid of transistors that create
a pixel structure. When the transistors are charged, tiny rotating
crystals suspend n a liquid inside the panel. The crystals
are like tiny shutters that control the amount of light that
passes through each panel. The light is reflected on a mirror
and through a projection screen, which creates the full color
high definition picture.
Despite the advantages of projection high definition televisions,
there are some drawbacks. The projection type might not be
the right choice for everyone. First, DLP projection sets come
with maintenance. The bulb that the projector used will burn
out approximately every 2000 hours. The bulbs are not cheap
either. They can run anywhere from $300 up to $600. Also, before
purchasing a DLP projection system, you should do some research
before buying. Not all DLP systems are actually high definition.
Some may be an older version of the front projection system
that uses an older chip. The resolutions of these are not nearly
of high definition quality. Another drawback to a DLP system
is what is called the “rainbow effect”. The spinning color
wheel in the projector causes this. It can cause a small percentage
of viewers to feel dizzy, get a headache or even feel nauseated
when watching DLP.
LCD
screens are also popular choices when looking at projection
systems. They come in small sizes, making it a good option
for smaller rooms. LCD screens do not require aligning nor
do the need regular bulb replacement as DLP often needs. In
addition, the LCD is thinner and closely resembles a flat screen.
There are also disadvantages of buying an LCD system.
One drawback of the LCD is what is known as “dead
pixels”.
Some viewers notice this while many others do not. The LCD
used millions of pixels between the three LCD’s found in the
projector. Sometimes, the pixels can malfunction or become
stuck in place. This results in visible dark or bright spots
in the television screen. Manufacturers usually will not fix
or replace the pixels. Make sure you have a good warranty and
if the dead pixels are likely to bother you, read the fine
print. Another disadvantage to the LCD projection system is
the screen doors. The screens in an LCS have a large number
of defined square-shaped pixels that make up the image. When
the screen is very large, the pixels are often visible.
In general, most people enjoy their new high definition projection
systems. Before making a large purchase, make sure you research
the product. Think about what other options and features you
will need when purchasing a new television. Check the warranty.
Most high definition sets come with a one-year warranty, which
is good. Also, take into consideration the cost of extended
warranties that most electronic stores offer. These sets can
be a major purchase. A standard plasma television should last
around seven years. An extended warranty is usually good between
three and four years. An extended warranty may be a good purchase.
Something else to consider before spending a lot of money on
a new HDTV set is how long the technology will last. With the
technology changing quickly and offering better performance
in TVs, spending thousands of dollars for a TV that may last
only seven years, might not be wise. As the popularity rises,
the prices will come down on HDTV sets making them more available
to the general population.
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SolveYourProblem.com : 2007
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