Flat Panel Monitors
By: Source: AARP.org Date Posted: 2005-04-22 00:00:00-04:00
Compared to older computer monitors, flat panel monitors are slimmer, sleeker, and weigh much less. Their display technology reduces eye strain, consumes less energy, and can offer unique features that allow you to customize your viewing experience. Now that they have become more affordable, view this video Quick Tip to help you decide if a flat panel monitor would be right for you.
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Transcript
You probably already know that there are two types of computer monitors. Those big old clunky ones and the newer flat panel monitors. Today we’ll talk about these two types of monitors and help you determine which one is better for you.
CRTs are the older type of computer monitors. CRT stands for Cathode Ray Tube and it is the large tube inside the monitor that makes it so large and chunky. As you look at these monitors from the side you see how huge they are. They are as heavy as they look and they obviously take up a lot of precious desktop space.
The newer monitors are called LCD or Liquid Crystal Display monitor. In comparison to the CRTs, they are slim and sleek. In fact they are so thin that they are often referred to as flat-panel monitors. While they used to be very expensive, today’s LCD monitors are quite affordable.
This is a big breakthrough for the average user. One very important point is that because flat panel monitors use an entirely different technology, they are inherently clearer and easier on the eyes. There is no flickering to cause eyestrain. LCDs emanate no radiation and consume less power than the CRT monitors.
One thing to be aware of when purchasing a flat panel monitor is the viewing angle. All flat monitors look best when viewed straight on. Once you move to the side or top of the screen, the screen clarity drops off. This is where you will see one of the biggest differences between the inexpensive and more costly monitors.
If you decide to try a flat panel monitor, look at them carefully. Some have additional features like built-in speakers and USB ports. Many have the useful ability to tilt and swivel and some can even turn a full 90 degrees to help you view long Web pages and documents.
And you don’t have to wait until you purchase a new computer. You can replace your old monitor with a new flat panel monitor right now.
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