04-08-2009
HDTV cables - Is bigger better for HDTV Why Projection TVs May not Offer the Best Venue for HDTV
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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