- Using a digital or analog connector cable, flat screen monitors plug into the video card of a computer and display images onto its screen. Higher end flat screen monitors are also equipped to be used with devices other than computers, such as high-definition televisions. LCD monitors display images by using a back light that shines through a liquid crystal substance that is housed between two plates of glass. Varying amounts of light passing through the liquid crystals and glass determine the colors that will be displayed, ultimately allowing individual pixels to activate and refresh to display images onto the screen.
- The primary benefit flat screen monitors offer is their size. Unlike CRT monitors--which are bulky, heavy and use a lot of energy--flat screen monitors are less than half the size of CRT monitors of the same screen size, are less than three inches thick, usually weigh only 10 lbs., and are more energy efficient than CRT monitors. Flat screen monitors also come in a variety of sizes, ranging from 15 inches to over 30 inches and can be wide screen. Although LCD monitors generally do not display colors as purely as do CRT monitors, and LCD monitors do not respond as accurately to changes in resolution, flat screen monitors display text more sharply and display brighter images. These benefits, combined with the overall aesthetics of LCD monitors, have caused most computer users today to prefer LCD monitors over CRT monitors.
- When purchasing a flat screen monitor, consumers should compare not only the screen size of the monitors, but should consider the viewing angle, pixel response time and contrast ratio of the monitors. The wider the viewing angle a flat screen monitor has, the farther away a computer user can be from the screen without the picture becoming dark. A small response time means that the monitor's pixels will change quickly, minimizing "trails" behind fast-moving images. Response time is especially important to gamers. Finally, contrast ratio generally refers to the richness in color displayed by the pixels.
- Flat screen monitors, like all LCD screens, are easily damaged and require special care. Pressing the screen, sticking notes on the screen, applying glass cleaner to the screen, and wiping the screen with a paper towel instead of a soft cloth should be avoided. These activities can cause permanent damage to individual pixels, resulting in black spots, and will gradually degrade the coating on the screen.
- After purchasing a new flat screen monitor, many consumers will notice that some of the pixels are damaged. Damaged pixels may show up as permanent red, black or white spots in the screen when the monitor is powered on. These are "frozen" or "dead" pixels and manufacturers are allowed to sell monitors with a certain number of these defected pixels. This means that consumers cannot return the monitor for such minor defects, as almost all flat screen monitors will have them.
