Basics of Flat Panel Monitors
Flat panel monitors have become the standard for entertainment and practical use. They are used as large-screen televisions for watching movies and as computer monitors. If you are considering purchasing a new flat panel monitor, there are several basics you must consider before settling on a model.
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The Three Types
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As of July 2010, there are three basic types of flat panel monitors available: LCD, plasma and LED. CRT is an obsolete version of the monitor that used large cathode ray tubes. Each of the three types is unique in operation, capabilities, price range and usages. One nearly universal trait shared among all of these monitors, however, is the ability to display high-definition video, which is video with a horizontal resolution of at least 720 lines; higher-end models display 1080 horizontal lines.
LCD
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LCD monitors are among the most common of all flat panel monitors and can be found in sizes ranging from tiny screens only a few inches across to large monitors/televisions more than 60 inches across. These monitors use liquid crystals wedged in between two panes of glass, with three of such crystals representing one pixel on the screen and each crystal capable of changing color (between red, blue and green) to create millions of different color combinations for each pixel. These monitors usually have a plastic screen and are the least expensive of the three primary flat panel monitor types, with 22-inch sets priced at around $250, as of July 2010. LCD monitors are about the same thickness as most plasma televisions and are best for sports and video games because of the relatively high refresh rate of the pixels and their sharp images.
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Plasma
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Plasma televisions are typically only available as larger-sized monitors, usually from around 37 inches to upwards of 100 inches. Plasma monitors use cells of phosphorous gas, contained behind a glass panel, that change color and emit light. These televisions are slightly more expensive than LCD televisions, with prices typically around 30 percent higher for similar-sized models. Plasma monitors provide a smoother picture than most LCD monitors and are best in darkened rooms, like media rooms or home theaters, making them very well-suited for movies. Because they use glass screens, they are more susceptible to glare, although many manufacturers use anti-glare coatings.
LED
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LED (light-emitting diode) monitors were unveiled in 2007 and are the most expensive of the three types of flat panel monitors, with prices usually 50 percent or more higher than plasma monitors of a similar size. These are the thinnest and lightest of the three monitors. They use tiny diode lamps behind a glass panel to produce an incredibly colorful and sharp picture that typically has a higher contrast ratio than plasma or LCD monitors. LED monitors also have much faster refresh rates than plasma or LCD monitors, which virtually eliminates any ghosting or motion blur that may be found on the other two monitor types. As of 2010, most mass market LED monitors are only available in sizes around 40 to 42 inches.
Best for You
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When deciding on a new flat panel monitor, remember that what's best overall may not be best for you. If you are looking for something for a kid's room or a simple computer monitor and you are not planning to watch Blu-ray discs or set up a home theater, then a simple LCD monitor will suffice. If you want the large home theater experience, then go with a plasma monitor. If you're into the absolute latest technology and are willing to part with more money for a superior product, then look into LED monitors.
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References
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