Monitors

Overview

High quality monitors have recently become less expensive and are available from a variety of manufacturers. When you shop for a monitor, you want to consider several factors including monitor size, image quality, viewing space, warranty options, and price.

The right monitor can help enhance your productivity at work and computer viewing experience at home. If you set up your computer as a media center, you can even stream television, movies, and video to your desk. Many users choose to mount their monitors on the wall.

Types

The majority of monitors available are wide screen liquid crystal display (LCD) flat panels that are lightweight and portable. The screen creates images my superimposing pixels that are filled with liquid crystals in front of a backlight. Older monitors use cathode ray tube (CRT) technology and are difficult to transport. LCD monitors are energy efficient and can be powered from a battery or electrical outlet.

Many monitors can switch between modes and can function as a television. LCD combos do not need to connect to a computer to function as a television. They can connect directly to your cable or satellite input devices. You can use a remote control to switch between watching television and using the computer.

Built-in Features

Many monitors come with additional features including built-in speakers and media card readers. These devices may need to be connected to the computer separately, meaning that you will need more than one wire for everything to work.

Image Quality

High-definition monitors deliver superior image quality and are available with 1080p capabilities. With a high-definition monitor, users can watch high definition television and movies. It is also possible to use a computer as a media center for watching high definition cable television.

In general, high-definition monitors are more expensive than traditional LCDs. Keep in mind that a high-definition LCD monitor is not compatible with all computers. In order for a high-definition screen to display high-definition images and video, a high-definition video card or graphics device is necessary. High-definition monitors are backwards compatible which means that they will display video that is not high-definition.

Other factors that affect picture quality include the monitor's screen resolution and refresh rate. The resolution tells you how many distinct pixels can be displayed at once. In general, monitors with a higher resolution can display more on the screen. The refresh rate is the number of times per second that the hardware pulls data for the image.

Size

LCD monitors are available in sizes to accommodate all needs. Screens range in size from 14-inches to 28-inches and larger. People who use dual monitors may benefit from the option to use one large monitor.

Aspect Ratio

When you buy a monitor, pay particular attention t o the aspect ratio. The standard HDTV format is 16:9. If you do not have a 16:9 widescreen monitor, your computer or media player may try to compensate and adjust the output to fit. The media quality might be compromised in this process.

Wall Mounting

Many monitors are compatible with wall mount kits. In general, wall mount kits are available for under $100. A wall mounted monitor might add sophisticated finishing touches to your room.