The advent of the digital age brings exciting new television options: plasma and LCD screens and high-definition TVs, all available at affordable prices. With so many choices, you may have a hard time determining which type of TV is best for you. Basic information can help you find a TV that fits your needs.
Space Measurement
Bigger is often better when purchasing a TV, but not if it comes at the expense of a good viewing experience. Make a few measurements before you buy your TV so you know which size is best for you. Provide a good 6 inches of free space on either side of the TV (though you don't need to worry about that if you have a section of an entertainment center set aside for it). Be sure to measure both the height and length of the space that will hold the TV, and ask for those dimensions when you buy (the listed size of TVs describes the screen's diagonal width only). Finally, make sure you have sufficient space between the TV and the spot you intend to watch it: two to three times the diagonal width of the screen. If you can't manage that much distance in the space you have, consider a smaller TV.
Flat-Screen Options
Most TVs sold these days are some variety of flat screen: either plasma or LCD. Both types have benefits and drawbacks, which you should consider before making a decision. Plasma screens tend to provide a richer, deeper picture, and are available in larger sizes than LCDs (though LCDs are catching up in that department). LCDs, for their part, tend to be lighter and easier to carry. They also work better in higher altitudes, which can cause problems for plasma screens. Consider the best options for your circumstances before deciding between the two.
High Definition
You can purchase an HDTV, but in order to take full advantage of it, you may need several additional pieces of equipment. Contact your cable or satellite provider to see if they offer HD services; you'll probably need to pay a little extra each month for them. You'll also need HDMI cables to connect to the cable or satellite box (and a Blu-ray Disc player or upgraded DVD player if you intend to watch DVDs or Blu-ray discs on your new TV). Once you have them, then you can consider the television itself. Check the image resolution on the set. It needs to be at least 720p (720 lines of pixels broadcast "progressively," or all at once) to be considered high definition. Ideally, you should buy a set that offers 1080p resolution, which is the highest possible screen resolution as of 2009. Otherwise, you're not getting the optimum high definition for your set.
Tags: cable satellite, diagonal width, intend watch, plasma screens