subject: Shopping tips for the best flat screen TV [print this page] Shopping tips for the best flat screen TV
In order to buy a flat screen TV, there are many considerations besides deciding the size of the screen. Let's take a look at some of the fine details needed to buy the right television.
Contrast Ratio: This refers to the darkest and brightest light values the screen can display at the same time. Every other factor kept constant, a higher contrast ratio means a better quality television. Increasing the maximum light output will increase the contrast, but would not do much good in case of black levels in the picture. LCD televisions in particular have a bigger problem with reference to blacks. Their contrast-ratio ratings begin at 600:1, while those of plasma televisions begin at 1000:1, although the latest range has contrast-ratios as high as 10,000:1, although this could be an exaggeration, since there is no measure to define the same.
Aspect ratio: This defines the relationship of the screen's height and width. Traditionally, televisions have had a 4:3 aspect ratio, while some wide screen sets have the figure at 16:9. Now, you need to realize that HDTV is a wide screen format, and DVDs as well as Blu-Ray discs look better on a wider screen. Hence, one must always purchase a television with an aspect ratio of 16:9 at least.
Component video inputs: The number of video inputs compatible with the television give you an idea of what kinds of players and other video sources can be used in conjunction with the television.
Composite video: This is the lowest quality among all kinds of video inputs, and is the basic inclusion in any device that will have video outputs.
S-Video: A better quality than composite video; S-Video outputs are present in all devices except VCRs.
Component video: This is the basic requirement for connecting high-definition cable and satellite set top boxes, along with progressive-scan DVD and Blu-Ray players.
Video Graphics Array (VGA): This is a high quality analog RGB connection used for connecting a computer or laptop with the television.
Digital Video Interface (DVI): This is one of the highest-quality video inputs, and can be used to attach devices having HDMI outputs through an adapter, and can also be used for computer connections.
High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI): This is another high quality video connection format, and is a combination of DVI and a digital audio and control link. It is available on all HD satellite receivers as well as upconverting DVD players (720p, 1080i or 1080p).
Resolution: Screens like plasma and LCD are fixed-pixel arrays, i.e., they have columns and rows of standalone picture elements that switch on and off to display the picture. Screen resolution is the number of pixel columns by rows. The best choice with respect to resolution in flat TVs is 1080p.
Screen size: This depends majorly on the space available. The calculations goes like this. Multiply the screen size by two. For instance, if it's 40 inches, it comes out to 80 inches. This much distance must be present between the screen and the viewer for the optimum experience.
Regardless of which kind of flat television you choose, bear in mind that Samsung televisions are the very best in technology and value for money, and you will certainly find one that suits your need and budget from the wide range of options.
