Once available only with small screens, LCD TVs now come with screens as large as 50 inches (and climbing), which makes them suitable for a household’s primary TV set. Regardless of screen size, these TVs are d https://bmmagazine.co.uk/ only a few inches thick, giving them a small footprint. They’re also relatively lightweight, often as little as 30 pounds or less, so they can be wall-mounted.
Prices are heading downward, but inch for inch, LCD TVs are comparatively expensive. In larger sizes, they cost more than comparably sized plasma sets, for instance. The picture quality on the best LCD TVs can be very good and viewing angles have gotten better, but there’s still some room for improvement at displaying deep black levels and fast motion
WHAT’S AVAILABLE
Strong brands include Panasonic, Philips, Samsung, Sharp, and Sony, along with many computer-display manufacturers. The entry of computer makers Dell and Gateway into the LCD TV market has accelerated price competition.
LCD TVs are available in standard-definition (analog), enhanced-definition (ED), and high-definition (HD) models. ED and HD sets are digital TVs.Analog TVscan display only standard-definition signals, like those used for most TV broadcasts. ED sets can also accept the higher-quality 480p signals like those from a progressive-scan DVD player. HD images are the sharpest and most detailed. These models can accept all signals from DVD players and HD signals from digital-video players/recorders. Within the HD category, there are three types of TV sets.
HD-ready sets. Also called HDTV monitors, these sets can display standard-definition programs (which still account for most non-prime-time TV broadcasts) on their own. To display digital programs, they require a digital tuner to decode those broadcasts. If you’re getting your HD programming from cable or satellite, your digital cable box or satellite receiver has the appropriate digital decoder built in. All you have to do is connect your HD-ready TV to the box and you’re all set. Cable companies charge a small rental fee for digital or HD-capable boxes. To receive HD via satellite, you need an HD receiver and special dish antenna(e). Together, these cost about $300, but you may be able to get them from the satellite company at little or no charge as part of a promotion.