Episode 10: Computer Monitors
More often than not, the only time you purchase a new computer monitor is when you’re buying a new system. Yet after figuring out all the particulars of a computer, the monitor is usually an after thought and it shouldn’t be. There are some key factors in making a buying decision on a computer monitor that greatly impact the quality of the display.
This week in Episode 10, Michael Ashby and Analog Dave talk about the basics of a choosing a new computer monitor. From CRTs to LCDs, the guys go over all the specs and terms and acronyms, but each term is explained in detail and the show notes have plenty of further information.
Show Notes
- Michael got the idea for this podcast after he purchased his new monitor - a Dell UltraSharp 2007WFP 20.1″ Flat Panel LCD Monitor
- which is the best display he’s ever had.
- What prompted him to upgrade was due to comments by Mike Rohde’s comments.
- Analog Dave uses a 19″ CRT
- What Kinds Of Monitors Are There?
- CRT (Cathoray Tube)
- These displays are akin to traditional televisions
- They are larger in overall size than an LCD display
- CRTs are usually less expensive when compared to an LCD, but that is starting to change
- Most computer graphics professionals tend to prefer CRT displays due to their ability to be more precise with color calibration for professional printing.
- Don’t confuse “flat screen” with thin. All high-end CRT displays have a flat screen surface, but this doesn’t mean that they are thin like an LCD.
- CRTs also do well at different resolutions.
- LCD (Liquid Crystal Display)
- The biggest advantage to an LCD as your computer monitor is that they are smaller, lighter and take up less space.
- Nowdays, LCDs have larger screens than traditional CRT displays. 30″ LCD displays are now standard in high-end LCD computer displays.
- LCDs typically only work well at their highest resolution. If you find the icons and fonts to be to small, changing the resolution will make things larger, but at the same time, things won’t look as sharp.
- If you’re worried about an LCD native resolution, then it’s important that you view it in person before purchasing online. Play with large fonts and make sure that everything is legible.
- The viewing axis isn’t as wide as a CRT, if that is important
- Screen burn can be just as common with LCD as they are with CRT displays
- CRT (Cathoray Tube)
- What Does Display Resolution Mean?
- Display resolution refers to the number of pixels that are displayed across and down a computer display.
- A computer’s display resolution is expressed as an equation, such as 640×480. What this expression means is that a 640×480 display resolution will display 640 pixels across and 480 pixels down the screen.
- The higher the ratio, the more information that can be displayed on the screen.
- Michael’s Dell UltraSharp 2007WFP 20.1″ Flat Panel LCD Monitor
- A CRT display has the ability to change display resolutions and still keep everything sharp.
- LCDs are “fixed pixel” displays and they do not scale well at lower resolutions.
- 1024×768 is the current standard display resolution for most computers
- What Things Should I Look For When Buying A Monitor
- Pixel Density - aka dot pitch relates to the number of dots (sub pixels) per line. Measured in millimeters, the smaller the number the better. So a .22mm is better than a .28mm.
- Analog vs. Digital - A digital connection is better than an analog connection. Your video card determines if you can use a Digital (DMI) connection.
- Contrast Ratio - is the measurement of the display to show the luminosity between light and dark images. Typically illustrated at 800:1. The higher the number, the better, so 800:1 is better than 400:1. For more, go here.
- Refresh Rate (CRT) - The frequency at which the screen refreshes. It’s measured in Hertz (Hz) a the higher the number the better, so 100Hz is better than
- Response Time (LCD) - Similar to refresh rate and the lower the number the better. It’s measured in milliseconds and 8ms to 16ms are common, but 8ms is better.
- Size - Typically, a 19″ LCD will be bigger than a 19″ CRT due to the way they measure.
- Michael’s Display Specs
- Screen Size: 20.1″
- Dot Pitch: 0.255
- Brightness: 300
- Contrast: 800:1
- Max Resolution: 1600×1200 @60Hz
- Response Time: 16 milliseconds
- Connections: Analog, Digital, Composite, S-Video
- Extras: USB hub built-in, screen rotates to portrait.
- Misc. Stuff
- The Phillips TV Ad the guys were talking about (Thanks Mike!)
- Our good friend Dan is moving back to DC from Guam and he purchased the same Dell monitor to act as his television due to the variety of connectors
For More Information
The Bottom Line
We recommend that you purchase the right monitor based on your needs. LCDs are not necessarily better than CRTs. Purchasing a monitor with good specs will, regardless of the type, will be a better purchase overall, so compare the specs first and the price second. Comparing dot pitch, screen resolution, contrast ratio, and refresh rate will give you good indicators as to the overall quality of a monitor; however; always look at a display in person whenever possible. Ultimately, the best judge are your eyes.
Add comment November 1st, 2006