Buying A Plasma TV
Compared to the older televisions, the screen resolution of a plasma TV is much higher and the picture quality is much better. A plasma tv can also be used as a computer monitor, and especially Gamers like to use plasma televisions because of the higher graphic details and the clearer pictures. This enhances the game play and makes it so much more fun to play a video game.
As DVD, DTV, Satellite television and HDTV are becoming the standard, the popularity of plasma will also continue to grow. But how do you choose what plasma television is the best for you?
All plasma televisions are suitable for digital television signals and also for VGA, XGA and SVGA. The screen resolution is 1366 x 768 and its diagonally measured size varies from the minimum 32 inch to the maximum of 63 inch. to is measured the same as conventional televisions: diagonally. Of course if you want and you have some spare cash, you can always have a look at the Panasonic 150 inch. If your TV will be placed inside a cupboard or cabinet, bear in mind that for proper ventilation there needs to be at least 3 inches of space at the top and on both sides needs to be 6 inches for speakers.
Keep in mind that the larger the screen size, the larger the optimal viewing distance. As a general rule of thumb:
- For 32 to 37 inch screens, the best viewing distance is 6 to 10 feet.
- For 37 to 42 inch screens, the distance should be from 10 to 14 feet.
- 50 inch screens need a viewing distance of about 12 to 16 feet.
- Screen sizes over 50 inches are best viewed from at least 15 feet.
A plasma TV should be as flat as possible. These are not the cheapest but well worth the investment. On a slightly bend screen there is always a great amount of glare from doors, lamps, sunlight etc. On a flat screen there is much less distortion.
The plasma TV needs to have at least one set of audio output and one set of audio video inputs. If there is a choice, always go for the most output/input channels. It also needs to have S-video, RCA composite, component video inputs and if it will be used for HDTV, make sure to check for firewire, which is a HD component.