Projection Tv

Projection Television On Display In The Electronics Store

You've seen them on display in the electronics store. You've added them to your wish list, your "one day" list. It's easy to fall in love with a large projection TV, but be sure to consider several factors before jumping into a major purchase.

Most every projection TV on the market is loaded with all the features we've come to expect from a television. They have picture-in-picture capability so you can keep an eye on two programs - very handy for the sports fan. Some come with a slot for a memory card. This allows for the viewing of photos or video from a digital camera - a nice way to share home movies. And virtually every projection TV today comes ready to handle high definition signal input. Of course this means that to enjoy the feature, you have to have access to HD cable or satellite.

Projection TVs that use CRT technology are typically the lowest priced options. CRT means cathode-ray tube. It is an older technology and the TVs are bigger and heavier than the newer technology versions of LCD (liquid crystal display), DLP (digital light processing) and LCoS (liquid crystal on silicon). One important caution for CRT projection TVs is that they are subject to "burn ins." A burn in occurs when an image is left on the screen for a long period of time. The image stays behind like a ghost image. The newer technologies do not have this problem.

Projection TVs are available from all of the major brands including JVC, Toshiba, Sony, Hitachi, Mitsubishi, Panasonic, Philips, Samsung and RCA. They range in size from 42 inches to more than 71 inches. The most popular sizes are in the 50 to 59 inch range. Measurements of TVs are in inches and refer to the diagonal length of the screen. The typical resolution for projection TVs is 1280 x 720. The newest models will likely feature a higher resolution of 1920 x 1080. These models use the format term 1080i. The value of the 1080i resolution can best be seen on the larger units.

While it might be tempting to buy the biggest screen you can find, think first about where you will be putting the TV. Take measurements of your room and plot out where the TV will be. If you are considering a CRT unit, keep in mind that it will come in a cabinet and be mounted on casters. The size can be as large as a loveseat. And speaking of seating, you will need to be seated at least seven feet away from the screen for the best picture quality. Also consider how many other people will typically be watching the TV at the same time. The viewing angle is different on a projection TV than on a standard model. In the showroom, view the TV from straight in front, then step to either side to see how the quality of the picture is impacted.

Finally, take the items that aren't listed on the ticket price into consideration. Think about the reliability factor. CRT models are prone to burn in which could require a new tube. Other types are subject to lamp replacement which sounds minor but can cost more than a hundred dollars. Also factor in delivery and installation costs. These are large TVs and you'll likely need assistance getting one in your home.