How it works
A network of hundreds of thousands of tiny LCD pixels sits behind the TV screen. When light hits the pixels an electric current decides the amount of light supplied into one of the three chambers – green, blue, and red. These beams of light decide how much colour appears on the LCD screen and the light variations make up the actual image displayed on the screen.
Benefits of an LCD TV
- Saves space – LCD TVs are so compact they can be wall mounted almost anywhere in your home. A traditional 32" CRT has been replaced by a standard 40" LCD in an increasing number of households
- No static electricity is generated on an LCD screen, it remains virtually dust free and clean for perfect viewing all the time.
- No scanning lines on an LCD TV. This means flicker-free images for a more comfortable viewing experience with less eyestrain, even when viewing close-up.
- Look sleek and stylish – LCDs are slim and very stylish to look at. They can easily be wall mounted or placed on a stand.
- Viewing angle – LCD TVs are flat, therefore you can watch it from a wide angle in a room
What to consider when buying an LCD TV
High Definition Television (HDTV) is a new system that transmits a television signal with around twice the standard picture resolution as normal definition television. HD is now also available by satellite and cable companies. The latest DVD players also incorporate HD into their players to work with your TV for picture clarity.
Two HD Formats widely used by broadcasters are 720p and 1080i. The number - 720 or 1080 - refers to the number of vertical lines that make up each picture frame, while the letter describes how those lines are displayed on screen. 720p is preferable for sport as 1080i isn't as smooth, but it's better for material that requires a little more attention to detail, such as wildlife documentaries and arts programmes. It's down to the broadcaster to decide which format is appropriate.
HDMI is about using high capacity input for HD video and audio signals. Two HDMI sockets mean you could plug in both an HD set-top box and an HD DVD player.
Scart connects equipment like DVD players and set top boxes to your LCD. For the best picture, look for scarts that support the high-standard RGB signal.
Video or S-video inputs let you plug other AV equipment, such as camcorders and games consoles, directly into your TV.
Audio/video input sockets. Each time you wish to use a DVD player, set-top box and games console you will need a scart or AV socket for each piece of equipment. The majority of LCDs come with at least 2 scart sockets as standard.
Auto format Switching allows you to choose which aspect ratio best suits the broadcast you are receiving. For example, showing standard (4:3) broadcasts with black bands on either side so the images aren't stretched out of proportion.
Surround Sound can be an additional feature that you may wish too add by purchasing additional speakers to enhance your home system, to recreate the cinema experience. Most LCDs come with Virtual Surround Sound and mimic the effect using the two main speakers.
Future Proofing
If you want your LCD TV to last then look out for the digital tick when choosing your new LCD TV. It identifies products, which are designed to keep working once we've switched over to digital TV in the UK.
If you need to be sure you can receive Freeview in you home, please visit www.freeview.co.uk.
Not all LCD TVs are HD Ready, therefore if you wish to have the HD experience in your home, buy an LCD TV with the HD Ready logo next to it.
