FLAT SCREEN TV GUIDE

There are two compelling advantages with an LCD TV. The first is that they can be much easier to watch than a cathode ray tube (CRT) model. This is because screen displays are significantly brighter with a high contrast and the flicker free picture. LCD TVs will work effectively in almost any kind of room lighting from bright to ambient. Secondly, LCDs have a higher native resolution than plasma TVs of the same size making them ideal for high-definition output. While plasma TVs are currently better at the moment for sheer screen size, as more and more television output becomes high-definition TV (HDTV), LCD technology will come to the fore.

What is the purpose of LCD? Key Features and Accessories!
LCD technology is relatively complex and improving all the time but is based upon the fact that liquid crystals are, in their natural state, twisted. The ability of the crystals to allow light through can be altered by applying electric current. In smaller set will have aspect ratios of 4:3 although some models will have 16:9 widescreen display. In built sound is likely to be simple stereo, and refresh rates of 50Hz. These sets are typically available from between Rs.24,000 and Rs.44,000. In the case of the largest sets on the market prices can reach up to Rs.2,40000. At this level you can expect a feature rich set with a 16:9 screen, Dolby Virtual Surround Sound, refresh rates up to 100 Hz, and on some models additional decoders for HDTV and or Digital and terrestrial TV.

Key features:-

* Cheaper LCD sets may come with a passive matrix system. This has a grid of conductors with pixels located at each intersection in the grid. A current is sent across two conductors on the grid to control the light for any pixel. While this set-up will save you money you may notice the effects of the slow response time and less precise voltage control inherent in this arrangement. On screen you might see some ghosting and images which are fuzzy and lack contrast.

* Where LCDs really score over CRT models is in the physical depth of the television set. Most are less than 3" deep and can be hung on a wall or from a ceiling. This is a boon for those with smaller rooms or who want a release from the space-eating demands of a CRT.

* LCD TVs are particularly suited to act as a computer screen. Text and graphics will be made to look exceptionally sharp by their high-resolution. LCD TVs typically include connections for composite, S-video, component video and one or more RGB SCART inputs.

* Despite the slim line look, most LCD sets come with integrated tuners and speakers so there's no need to spoil the space-saving effect by cluttering up the room with additional boxes.

Accessories :-

* These are ideal to make maximum use of a flat screen LCD TV. They will add about 2" to the depth of the set. Wall mounts that tilt for viewing anywhere in a room are also available as are articulating mounts which mean you can push the set flush to the wall when you are not using it.

* It is worth knowing that table stands need to be suitable for the particular make of LCD TV you buy. If a stand is not included with the set check carefully before you buy one that it will do the job.