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Buying Guide - Computer Monitors
Types
CRT (cathode-ray tube) monitors are still being manufactured, but in far fewer numbers than the preferred LCD monitor - and for good reason: a CRT computer monitor is heavy, bulky, and has a lower resolution compared to more modern versions such as the LCD monitor. They also display in a 4:3 aspect ratio, which is not ideal for watching movies shot in widescreen (16:9) format, unlike the preferred LCD monitor.A computer monitor's aspect ratio is the ratio of an image's width to its height, so an LCD monitor with a 4:3 aspect ratio is almost square, while one with a ratio of 16:9 is wider than its height. A CRT computer monitor is sometimes the preferred choice among graphic artists, movie editors and other industry professionals who want the full range of the colour palette, the wider viewing angle and the true, deep blacks that a cathode-ray tube can offer (which an LCD monitor cannot).
LCD monitor types are similar to plasma televisions, both of which have a flat-screen. No longer will your computer monitor need to take up the entire depth of your desk; a sleek, slim LCD monitor can sit at the back of your workspace and still provide plenty of room for papers, calculators, and other desktop items. 16:9 aspect ratio displays offer an easy way of using one computer monitor big enough to display two documents or images side by side, without the expense of a dual LCD monitor setup. The LCD monitor has become the preferred standard monitor in households and offices.
Features and connections
Contrast ratio: this tells you the difference in intensity between the whitest white and the blackest black. For example, an LCD monitor with a higher contrast ratio typically offers better quality, but this can also be a function of the resolution and aspect ratio.Connections: with digital television ruling the day, and analogue clearly on its way out, any LCD monitor you consider should have all the necessary connections and ports to hand. Analogue signals, also known as VGA (video graphics array) must be converted to digital signals before a digital monitor, like an LCD monitor, can display them. This can be achieved via a 15-pin connexion, a DVI interface, and a graphics card, or a strictly digital input such as DisplayPort.
Resolution: when considering an LCD monitor or CRT monitor, a very important aspect is resolution. Your LCD monitor (or any other computer monitor) will display images much more clearly, when it is run at its native resolution. For example, a 15-inch standard (4:3) LCD monitor's native resolution is usually 1024 x 768 pixels, while a 15-inch widescreen LCD monitor's resolution is 1280 x 800.
Generally speaking, the more pixels, the more expensive the LCD monitor will be. If you will intend working with photos, graphics or movies, pay the extra money for a good, high-resolution LCD monitor; your eyes will thank you. Otherwise, the standard resolution for an LCD monitor nowadays should suit the vast majority of general buyers.
Observe where the connections are located on your LCD monitor. Some models of LCD monitor have the wires and cables routed through several paths along the back of the computer monitor. This is not normally the best solution, especially if you know you will need to carry out plenty of changes, such as when changing games consoles. Opt for easy access to connections, with cables of ample length that will allow you to move and tilt the display without disconnecting anything. Look for a DVI or HDMI port for hooking up to digital peripherals, a dual display, or a good quality video card.
Speakers: if you are limited for space, look for an LCD monitor with built-in speakers. While the sound from these will never replace a good stereo or sound system, they are adequate for everyday use, especially if you will be listening at your computer desk.
USB: a modern LCD monitor will include one or more USB ports, which can come in very useful for plugging in peripherals. Typically, an LCD monitor that features USB connections will also have a built-in memory card reader, allowing you to see photos on the card directly on your computer monitor.
TV Tuner: if you want your LCD monitor to double as a television (or your television to double as a computer monitor), consider purchasing an LCD monitor that comes with a built-in TV tuner as another space-saving convenience.
