Choosing between plasma and LCD TVs can be quite a complicated topic since you are actually choosing between two competing technologies that have similar features and come in similar packages. And to further complicate the decision making process, size and price are major considerations that are becoming non issues since LCDs are now made larger and with competing prices with plasma TVs. But despite their similarities, these technologies still vary on how they process and display incoming computer signals.
How do these television technologies work?
TV plasma technology is made up of thousands of individual pixel cells that allow electrical impulses to excite the natural gases (xenon & neon) and causing them to glow and generate light. This form of light illuminates the right balance of green, blue or red phosphors which are contained in every cell to display color from light. Each pixel cell us actually a microscopic light bulb that receives commands from the software on the electrostatic silicon board.
Whether placed in the heart of a projector or spread across a flat panel screen, LCD displays originate from the same technology. A unique matrix of thin film transistors supplies the voltage to liquid crystal filled cells that are located in between two glass sheets. As soon as they get hit with a certain electrical charge, the crystals untwist to a certain degree to filter the white light generated by the lamp located behind the screen or from a tiny LCD chip. The LCD monitors reproduce its colors using the process of subtraction-they block out certain color wavelengths from the white light spectrum until left with the appropriate colors. It is the intensity of light that passes through the liquid crystal matrix that lets LCD televisions display screen images.
Picture Quality
TV plasmas usually have better image quality especially in low to normal room lighting conditions. LCD TVs are great for sunroom or breakfast room kind of environments. LCD monitors are recommended for public displays like in retail store signage and airport signage because of the bright room lighting.
Functional Differences
Computer usage. LCD monitors display better static images from the computer and other VGA sources with full-color detail, no screen burn in and no flicker. The total number of pixels for every square inch on LCD display is higher compared to other technologies so it is better at displaying large data. Although plasma technology has enhanced their anti burn tactics and static handling, there are still issues coming out from it.
Video playback. Plasma TVs get the nod here due to their high quality performance with fast motion videos and high contrast level. LCD displays still suffer from motion blur effect.
Altitude usage. LCD panels are preferred visual displays in airplanes because they arent affected with the air pressure changes. LCD display performance is consistent regardless of altitude. Plasma TVs usually emit a buzzing sound in low air pressure conditions.
Pricing & Value
Plasma televisions are generally more affordable compared to LCD TVs. LCDs may have caught up with plasma in the 42 in size but plasma still reigns in large size ranges. The larger the screen size, the more price savings when purchasing plasma TVs. When it comes to the 46 in. size range, plasma sells for 30%-40% discount. And the 58 in. plasma may yield up to 40 %-50% discount.
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