What Is a CRT Television?

CRT televisons are bulkier than LCD or plasma TVs.

The cathode ray tube television saw commercial success for more than 70 years, after becoming available in the 1930s. In the 1960s, color television further popularized the CRT set and it enjoyed success well into the 2000s.

Function

CRT televisions use an cathode ray tube and electron beam to illuminates phosphors on the inside surface of the TV. The colors red, blue and green create the overall image on the screen.

Identification

CRT televisions are much bulkier than their modern counterparts, including LCD and plasma televisions. CRT televisions, like CRT computer monitors, have a distinctive funnel shape in the back. It is this casing that houses the gun that fires the electron beam. Most CRT televisions have a glass front screen that curves outward toward the viewer.

Warning

Because of the internal components, CRT television sets are quite heavy. The set may require two or more people to transport, and owners should be sure to use sturdy furniture that will not break or wobble to hold a CRT television set.

Considerations

Many television manufacturers are focusing on creating flat-panel televisions based on liquid crystal (LCD) or plasma technology. These televisions require less space and weight less than the traditional CRT television. Additionally, high-definition quality is standard with flat-screen televisions but not CRT televisions.

References

• DHTV Solutions:Direct-view Televisions
• Bit Tech:How CRT and LCD monitors work
• TV History:Television History - The First 75 Years