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Computer monitors | A buyers guide |
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The computer monitor is an important part of any PC.
In this guide we explain the difference between LCD and CRT technology, as well as giving you an idea of what to look for when choosing your new computer monitor.
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LCD computer monitors (flat screen monitors)
These days LCD (flat screen) monitors are the most popular type of computer monitors you can buy. They take up much less space than conventional (CRT) screens, and provide a high quality picture.
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LCD monitors have got cheaper over recent years, with some models costing less than $150 (£90 approx). Choosing a cheap monitor doesn't necessarily mean you lose out on quality, most major manufacturers make a low budget model which features specifications suitable for most computing needs.
LCDs come with a variety of screen sizes, ranging from 14 inches through to 25 inches and beyond. Your choice of screen size will depend on your needs, if you are using your computer for office use, for example word processing, spreadsheet work, etc, then a smaller monitor may suffice. If your monitor is for home use or gaming then a larger monitor would probably be more suitable, especially if you like to watch films on your PC.
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LCD monitors also come with 2 different screen formats (screen aspect ratio), 4:3 (same as the old style TV screens) and 16:9 (same as widescreen TVs). As with screen size your choice will depend on personal preference, although if you are going to watch movies on your monitor then a widescreen 16:9 format is preferential. Another benefit of having a 16:9 aspect ratio is the fact that you have more horizontal space, allowing you to have two windows visible at the same time, such as a live TV broadcast alongside your work.
Another benefit of LCD monitors is their low power consumption compared to conventional CRT monitors. The power consumption is usually stated in the monitor's specifications, with typical power consumption being around 20 watts depending on screen size.
Other features commonly found in LCD monitors include built-in TV tuners and integrated speakers, which again will depend on what you are using the monitor for.
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CRT computer monitors (conventional monitors)
Although LCD monitors are the most popular, CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) monitors still have some uses in today's world, the main benefit is the clarity and smoothness of the image produced.
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Cheap CRT monitors are available, although not as easy to find as LCD screens.
CRT screens, like their TV counterparts, provide a smoother image than LCDs which can sometimes appear pixellated.
Pixellated, or pixelated in American English, means the pixels that make up the image on the screen are too visible, which gives a rough appearance of the image, similar to zooming in too far on a digital photo.
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If you have the space available then a CRT monitor can be ideal, especially if you use your monitor for graphical work such as design. One downside to a CRT monitor, apart from the space, is the power consumption, which can typically be around 100 watts or more depending on the monitor's screen size.
CRT monitors come in various sizes, from 14 inches through to 26 inches and more. Your choice will basically come down to personal preference, although the cheaper models tend to be around 17 inches.
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