How to Choose the Best HDTV For Your Ps3, Xbox 360 or Wii Gaming Consoles

Uninformed consumers expect that every digital TV will provide a clearer and sharper picture compared to their analogue counterparts. This expectation has also extended to their favourite gaming console. While some high definition television brands and models will meet this expectation, others can disappoint gamers who are looking for that fantastic gaming experience.

Manufacturers of High Definition Television (HDTV) sets provide elaborate specifications about their models as part of the advertising and promotion campaigns. However, most consumers don't fully understand what these specifications really mean and why they are important in making their decision on which HDTV to buy for gaming purposes.

The main thing to understand is that high definition TV was designed for broadcast television viewing and not for gaming consoles. Gaming console makers are constantly adapting or redesigning their gaming consoles to match the standards set down for high definition digital broadcasting and displays. Some of the higher priced HDTV brands offer direct gaming console modes that are matched for popular gaming consoles.

This article provides a brief education on the 5 key factors to consider when looking for a HDTV for playing video games. This will assist you to make an informed decision without the confusion that surrounds gaming with the Sony Play Station 3 (PS3), Microsoft XBox 360, or the Nintendo Wii.

1. Bigger HDTV Screen Sizes Are Better For Gaming

The bigger the screen, the easier it will be to see the details in the graphics used in the games. Games appear to be more realistic with larger screens. If your HDTV screen is not large enough, then you may see a black strip at the top and bottom or sides of the picture to make the game fit within the screen. Consider HDTV screens that are greater than 24inches (60cm) in size.

2. LCD Screens Are Better Than Plasma For Gaming

Plasma HDTV screens can suffer from "image burn-in" from constantly playing the same video games. Image burn-in occurs when static images are left displayed on a plasma screen for very long periods. This is the case with some video games that don't have a changing backgrounds. Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) HDTV screens like those used for computer monitors, do not suffer from burn-in problems.

3. Higher Scanning Resolutions Are Better For Gaming

Makers of HD TV use two different scanning mechanisms to produce a picture on a HDTV screen. One mechanism is an "interlaced raster scan" and the other is a "progressive scan". A progressive scan will display all the horizontal lines that make up each picture frame in sequence. In comparison to an interlaced scan, all the odd horizontal lines are shown first and then alternately the even horizontal lines of the picture changing back to the odd lines in rapid succession.

A standard definition TV (SDTV) uses 525 (US NTSC) or 625 (Europe PAL) horizontal lines and is also known as "480i resolution" for US NTSC and "576i resolution" for PAL where the "i" stands for interlaced raster scanning. Interlaced video produces an annoying flicker that blurs the detail of video pictures. The flicker can be reduced with special filtering called anti-aliasing but this tends to reduce the clarity of the picture. High definition TV is shown using 720i or even 1080i resolutions.

Progressive scanning produces crisper and sharper pictures with no flickering compared to interlaced scanning for the same picture frame rate. High definition pictures are shown using either 720p, 1080p, 1440p or 2160p resolutions where the "p" stands for progressive scanning. HDTV with progressive scanning is usually more expensive than the lower resolution HDTV models. A typical LCD computer monitor resolution will start at 720p and may support higher resolutions.

4. Higher Refresh Rates Are Better For Gaming

Picture frame refresh rate is a measure (in Hertz or Hz) of how many times per second each picture frame is refreshed on a video display. Generally, the higher the refresh rate, the faster the display can respond to changing pixel colours thus reducing, and in some cases eliminating, picture blurring and judder when watching fast moving action scenes such as live football.

LCD screens that have a high response time (in milliseconds or ms) are often unsuitable for playing fast paced computer games. A response time of less than 15ms is considered to be sufficient for most video gaming given the human eye can not perceive changes faster than about 10ms. Brand name LCD HDTV manufacturers are producing models with 120Hz refresh rates and 4ms pixel response rates which is adequate for gaming consoles.

5. HDTV With Game Mode Is Better For Gaming

More recently, some HDTV makers have recognised that consumers also want to use their high definition televisions to play fast-action online and console games. This has lead to the development of a "games mode" to give you an instant reaction with the game controller. The principle behind the game mode is to optimize the reaction time and the picture quality of the TV to be closely matched with the higher resolution 1080p capable video game consoles such as the PS3 to give the gamer more realism.

What You Need To Know About The Popular Gaming Consoles

The Nintendo Wii only provides support for up to 480p resolution so you don't need a HDTV for using this gaming console. The XBox 360 gaming console supports 720p and 1080i resolutions so it can be used with a HD TV. The PS3 supports 480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i and 1080p resolutions making it a versatile gaming console that can be used with a broader range of high definition TV display resolutions.

Recommendations

When shopping for a HDTV for gaming consoles, look for at least a 24inch (60cm) LCD screen that supports 720p and 1080p, offer at least a 100Hz refresh rate and has a game mode. As with all technology, you basically get what you pay for. But given that high definition digital sets are continuing to come down in price, it is worth looking at HDTV models that can also support gaming consoles such as the PS3 and the XBox 360. Make sure you change the settings on both your HDTV set and your gaming console to support HD resolutions to experience the best these technologies have to offer.

How to choose the best Flat screen TV

Choosing the right technology

Plasma and lcd tvs look the same, but they are not. Some features or options don't differ a lot, but these are the major differences:

Size

If you arfe looking for an extra large TV, go for a plasma. Plasma TVs are the current size champions, particularly when comparing TVs that consumers can easily purchase. LCDs are catching up in size with their developing technology, however, and may surpass Plasmas in the near future. This may be due to difficulties in producing glass large enough for larger plasmas.

Burn-ins

With the latest plasma technology, this is less of an issue than ever before. The Pixel Orbitor, for example, is a method of reducing burn-in used by plasma manufacturers. It requires no additional programing from the end user as some older burn-in prevention techniques did.
Note: If you plan to use a plasma for gaming, some games with permanent 'dashboards' may still cause some burn-in. If you will be using the television for display use only, go for an LCD. Plasmas are more likely to get burned-in pixels.

Miscellaneous

- lcd tvs are far less fragile than plasmas. This is also an advantage when the tv set has to be shipped or moved to a different location.

- LCD TVs are also much easier to install than plasma TVs.

- LCD TVs have a better performance at high altitudes.

- LCD TVs are often cheaper than plasma TVs. The difference in pricing is getting smaller, however.

Ofcourse, all this information is available all over the web. For a detailed comparison sheet, I recommend using Wikipedia's comparison sheet.

Flat Screen TV comparison, don't get it wrong

If you have made a choice between plasma and LCD (I'll name it Flat screen TV from now on), you can pick a TV of your choice. Flat screen TV comparison will able you to find out exactly what you want and what'll fit the budget.

Brands

The following brands are being considered as the best manufacturers of Flat screen TVs:

- Hitachi

- Panasonic

- Philips

- Pioneer

- Samsung

If you are looking for a product with outstanding quality, we recommend choosing one of these brands.

Features

Different Flat screen TVs have different features. Most of these features look the same, but there are a couple of unique features as well:

- Ambilight

- HD ready or not?

- Picture in Picture

There are lots of comparison website available, but you will have to know how to use them. Filter the models by brand, price and features and the choice will be a lot easier.

Choose the Right Stand for a 42 Inch LCD TV

Unless you're mounting your new 42 inch lcd tv on the wall or on the ceiling, you'll need a solid and reliable stand to support it. Many TVs come furnished with an appropriate stand, but some require that the stand be purchased separately. If the manufacturer furnishes your 42 inch lcd tv stand, and it meets your needs in terms of styling, you're in great shape. Because your 42 inch lcd tv could become an integral part of the room's decorating scheme, though, you may choose to purchase a stand that matches the needs of your viewing habits, your home, and your sense of style.

Because a 42 inch lcd tv is reasonably heavy, the most important requirement is that any stand must handle the weight of your particular 42 inch LCD TV and must provide a stable base in case it's bumped or jarred. For that reason, make sure the stand you purchase meets the unique weight and strength requirements of the 42 inch LCD TV you purchased. The last thing you want to have happen is for your new TV to become damaged simply because your stand wasn't up to the task. The owner's manual for your 42 inch LCD TV will specify all the requirements of a suitable and effective TV stand for that model.

There are a few other considerations besides strength, though. Let's look at a few other decisions you'll want to make to ensure you get the maximum enjoyment from your 42 inch LCD TV.

1. Determine if the stand needs to hold other audio-visual equipment? If you own a DVD player, use a cable converter, have game systems like an Xbox or a PS2, and/or have a home theater system, you may want your stand to house that equipment as well as support the 42 inch LCD TV itself. Make sure you pick a stand that has shelves or compartments for the equipment you own, or even may someday own.

2. Determine if the stand will position your TV at an optimal viewing height. The height of the TV is an individual choice - make sure the stand you select will place your 42 inch LCD TV at the height you want. If you can, find an adjustable stand that gives you some flexibility. If not, determine the right height for you and select an appropriate height stand. An easy way to calculate your optimal height is to sit in your favorite chair or couch and determine how high your eye level is. Once you've determined eye level, make sure your 42 inch LCD TV will be centered at that point. Many stands are pre-engineered to approximate an appropriate viewing level for the average person, but make sure you're comfortable with that height before you make a purchase. Some pedestal stands are adjustable; if you don't need storage space, check out a pedestal stand.

3. Check to see if the stand has integrated cable management. If you're buying a cabinet with a closed back, cable management probably isn't an issue, since you'll have plenty of space to hide cables. If you're interested in a pedestal stand or a stand with an open back, make sure there are provisions built in to hide all the cables you may have. If you have a home theater, video gaming system, DVD player, and other components, you'll have a large number of cables running from component to component - make sure the stand gives you plenty of room to store those cables out of sight. The stand shouldn't just house your 42 inch LCD TV - it should handle all the cables and components, too.

Once you've found the right 42 inch LCD TV, finding a stand suits your needs and fits you're your room's décor and design is important, too. Make sure you can enjoy your TV while it's turned on, and how it looks when it's not turned on.

LCD TV Buyers Guide - How to Choose the Best LCD TV For Your Room

So you are looking for the best lcd tv? Hopefully this lcd tv buying guide will give you an idea of where to start.

What can seem like an easy enough task can soon turn into a confusing journey. You come across all these technical terms you don't understand and you get different advice every way you turn.

However, this can be made easier if you think about which are the most important issues.

So what should you think about when you are trying to find the best lcd tv for you?

1. What screen size do you want?

The screen size of an lcd tv can range from about 19 inches to well over 60 inches. So you need to consider where in the house you will be putting the TV, and the type of viewing you will be doing.

A smaller size is fine for the kitchen or bedroom, but you will want a much larger screen if you want the TV in your lounge for watching movies and sports. For bigger TVs, there are also a few good rules to follow if you are unsure about the best screen size for your room. Go to the website listed below for more details on this.

2. The quality of the high-definition picture

Are you going to be watching high-definition images? If you have a Blu-ray player or HD channels from your local TV company, then the performance of the TV for HD images is important. Not all LCD TVs are made equal, and so some TVs will show high-definition images better than others.

3. The quality of standard definition images

Many people still watch standard definition images, even if they have an HD Ready TV. If you don't have a regular source of HD images (such as Blu-ray), then you will want to make sure your new TV will process standard definition images properly.

This comes down to the quality of the internal processing inside the TV, and like with HD images, not all LCD TVs are made equal. Some LCDs will show non-HD images better than others.

4. The quality of the speakers

Many people use a separate sound system to listen to the audio from their TVs. If you do, then the quality of the on-board speakers doesn't matter. However, if you will only be using the built-in speakers to hear the audio then it is important to pay attention to the quality of the on-board sound. Some of these speakers can sound thin and lack bass - while other TVs have a much better, fuller sound.

5. Are there enough input connections?

This is often overlooked. When you install your new TV, you are going to want to connect all the external devices that you currently have connected to your old TV. Devices such as DVD players, Blu-ray players, cable TV boxes and digital TV receivers.

Before you buy your new LCD TV make sure it has enough connections, and the right type of connections, to install all your external devices. Your old devices may have outputs that are not supported by your new TV, so think about this before you buy.

So here are a few things to consider when you are looking to find the best LCD TV for your home. You will find many technical terms thrown your way when you are researching a new TV, such as native resolutions and refresh rates. But it's important to think about the issues listed above first and not to get too distracted by the marketing hype.

HDTV Contrast Ratio Explained - How to Choose the Best LCD TV - Dynamic Contrast Ratio

Introduction to Contrast Ratio: Contrast ratio (CR) is a parameter stated for all HDTVs, but is often very misunderstood. Before the flat panel revolution, CRT televisions never advertised this figure. The answer is simple and lies in the technology. CRTs use an electron beam to illuminate phosphors on the screen and create a picture. If the electron beam is switched off, that section of the screen turns absolutely black. White areas would max out the electron beam. Theoretically, old school TVs had an infinite CR, and blacks were displayed to perfection.

LCD HDTV Contrast Ratio: Modern lcd tvs use twisted nematic crystals to create the picture. What does that mean? Quite simply it is the same as using horizontal window blinds to allow or block light. Each tiny cell on your monitor has sub cells with red, green and blue polarizers. Each cell is controlled by a transistor (TFT is Thin Film Transistor) and thus the perceived intensity of the bright backlight can be controlled. To create black, the cell is ordered completely shut. The problem is (as with the horizontal blinds) that some light will always bleed thru the crystals. This undesirable effect produces blacks that are somewhat gray and even colors that don't seem to pop. Inexpensive, bargain brand LCDs may suffer from this problem. Most people however do not notice this issue until it is pointed out to them.

CR Measurement: LCD makers are free to measure CR in any way that they please. There is no current standard and it is incorrect to compare contrast ratio between manufactures. Basically CR is measured by taking a light intensity reading of the brightest area vs the darkest area on the screen. If the brightest area of the screen is 2500, and the darkest area 10, you have a 250:1 CR. Of course, how you set brightness, contrast, etc. on the TV can have a big impact on these measurements. Also, equipment calibration and setup can have a bearing. Finally, your eyes will perceive contrast differently based on ambient light settings. Do you ever wonder why movies turn down the lights? That should give you a big clue. Also, do not buy a glossy screen if there is ambient light in the room. If you are going to be watching TV in a room with windows and sunlight, opt for a matte screen.

Dynamic CR: Despite the large contrast ratio numbers advertised, bare panels may have CR figures in the 1000:1 range. However, by manipulating back light intensity based on actual scenery, TV makers can get six and seven figure contrast ratio measurements. For example, why run the back light on full intensity when you are looking at the night sky with stars? Dim the bulb, and less light will bleed through the black area giving the illusion of a much higher contrast ratio. Almost all lcd tvs sold now have dynamic contrast ratio. When you purchase a TV, look for contrast ratios above 40000:1 and a dynamic CR number. One last word, dynamic contrast ration isn't a perfect solution, sometimes you have a very dark scene with a small portion of the screen very bright (like a moon lit night). A scene like that could make the difference between a great TV and a mediocre one.

LED Lighting: A new advance in technology uses clusters of LEDs to illuminate the screen instead of a single lamp running the top length of the TV. The Samsung UN55C7000 is an example of such a TV. These TVs can create total blackness in certain areas of the screen, theoretically creating a near infinite (or seven figure) contrast ratio. Because the CR is so high, these TVs can create life like 3D images that appear to lift off the screen!

What should you consider when buying an HDTV? Do not make contrast ratio a major purchasing point. As a rule, look at contrast ratios in factors of ten. A TV with a 600K:1 CR is probably better than one with a 60K:1. Do not simply choose a TV because the CR is a few thousand higher. Read Reviews and pay attention to tag words like black and shadow detail, color vibrancy and even descriptions on how games look. These are the real factors in determining ultimate shadow detail and LCD performance.