HDTV Resolution Answered - 1080i or 720p?
30 January 2007
The folks at Sound and Vision magazine have a primer on How to Buy an HDTV. Here's a segment from their article that discusses the resolution, "A digital TV's vertical resolution is given as the number of horizontal scan lines, or rows of pixels, from top to bottom of the screen. Its horizontal resolution is the maximum number of discernible vertical lines, or columns of pixels, from left to right across a screen width equal to the height of the picture. (This keeps widescreen sets from having higher resolution than sets with the squarer 4:3 aspect ratio simply because of their shape.)One of the two commonly used high-def signal formats is 720p (progressive-scan), which has 720 lines of vertical resolution. There are 1,280 dots, or pixels, in each widescreen line, giving it a horizontal resolution of 720 pixels when the width is limited to the height. The other is 1080i (interlaced), which has 1,080 lines with 1,920 pixels per widescreen line, or 1,080 pixels horizontally when similarly limited. By contrast, traditional 480i TV signals have 480 lines of vertical resolution and up to 720 pixels per line, for a maximum horizontal resolution of 540 lines.
It would be nice if all HDTVs had resolutions of 1080i or 720p, but unfortunately the specs can vary a lot — especially among two kinds of fixed-pixel displays, plasma and LCD. Some screens might match up perfectly with one of the high-def formats, but many have native resolutions like 1,024 x 1,024 pixels, so the TVs convert incoming video to match. These models are still considered HDTVs, which have come to be defined as any sets that can display at least 720 lines of vertical resolution."
However, 1080i and 720p have been surpassed by 1080p. Sounds confusing, I know, but here's some more current info on 1080p, from CNET.com, "Another format is also becoming more well-known: 1080p, which combines the superior resolution of 1080i with the progressive-scan smoothness of 720p. True 1080p content is extremely scarce however, and none of the major networks have announced 1080p broadcasts."
If you're looking for the best of the best, you might look to pay a little more for the 1080p set - that way, when the networks and cable or satellite providers catch up... you'll be ready!
If you'd like to talk to a professional home theater installer about putting together the right package for your home - you can post your request with ConstructionDeal.com. It's a fast, free and easy way to find a quality installation pro to make sure you get your moneys worth!
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Labels: HDTV, HDTV Specs, plasma tv
How High Should You Install a Plasma or LCD TV?
22 January 2007
The simple answer to how high should you be placing your new plasma or LCD display is -- hang it as high as you'd like. Everyone has a personal preference to how they want to view television. Some like it way up high; others watch it down near the floor.Here are some things to consider about TV placement. With the lighter, thinner plasma and LCD displays, it's possible to install them on the wall or set them on a mantle over the fireplace.
They can be inside cabinets or entertainment centers. And many people watch TV for long periods of time or they play video games for hours. If you spend a good length of time looking up from your seated position, or even looking down, even if it's just a matter of a few degrees of tilt, you can put a lot of strain on your neck muscles.
The head tends to want to stay level. Look up or looking down requires muscles and tendons to push and pull the neck to move it to that position and keep it there. It's important to consider how far away you'll be sitting from the display. A set that is up high, on the fireplace, might not work if you're only 7 to 8 feet away. If you're back 12 to 13 feet, it might be less difficult to view for longer periods.
If you're unsure as to your personal preference, start out with the center of the screen at eye level from where you'll be sitting. Watch the display for a while and determine what works best. Adjust higher or lower to test it out before finally settling on a more permanent location (especially if this involves wall hanging or any invasive mounting plans.)No matter what height you decide on, make sure you TV mounting system comes with some sort of tilt mechanism. This way, if you go high, you'll be able to tilt the screen down so the display is perpendicular to your line of sight.
If you'd like to talk to an expert plasma or LCD installer for more advice and help putting it up, you can post your project on the ConstructionDeal.com site. It's a free service to find a local TV installation pro. We've got a network of companies in your area and it's much easier than searching for someone at random from the yellow pages.
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Labels: HDTV, plasma tv, Plasma TV Installation, tv installation
Home Tech Trend: Content to Television
17 January 2007
The world is abuzz over online video content. For every online video outlet, like YouTube, there are a hundred thousand stories talking about what it all means for viral video in 2007. The fact is... if the video content can eventually move from your cell phone or computer screen to your television, it might all fade back into the background.
The convergence between the Web and TV is coming to solve that problem, hopefully in the near future. With the hyper-popularity of high-def plasma and LCD TVs, more people are going to want to align their online wants with their in-home technology.
At the recent MacWorld, the huge announcement was for the iPhone, but many might have missed talk of Apple's upcoming new iTV product (or Apple TV.) iTV is a new piece of hardware that you'll have in your living room that's connected to your home network via wifi and to your HDTV. It basically brings iTunes, and all of the music and movie content that can come with it, to your TV. The best news is that it works with PCs or Macs.
iTunes now has over 250 movie and 350 TV titles available. The iTV device is scheduled to ship out in February and will cost about $299.
The convergence between the Web and TV is coming to solve that problem, hopefully in the near future. With the hyper-popularity of high-def plasma and LCD TVs, more people are going to want to align their online wants with their in-home technology.
At the recent MacWorld, the huge announcement was for the iPhone, but many might have missed talk of Apple's upcoming new iTV product (or Apple TV.) iTV is a new piece of hardware that you'll have in your living room that's connected to your home network via wifi and to your HDTV. It basically brings iTunes, and all of the music and movie content that can come with it, to your TV. The best news is that it works with PCs or Macs.
iTunes now has over 250 movie and 350 TV titles available. The iTV device is scheduled to ship out in February and will cost about $299.
According to the Apple site, "Apple TV automatically grabs the digital media on your computer and makes it available for you to enjoy on your TV. Now you can enjoy movies, TV shows, music, and podcasts in your iTunes library, plus photos and movie trailers, on your widescreen TV."
It's something to think about adding to your burgeoning Home Technology package!
Labels: HDTV, Home Technology Installers, Home Technology Trends, plasma tv
HDTV - How Big is Too Big?
02 January 2007
A lot of people have rushed out and purchased a Plasma or LCD TV for their homes. Believe it or not, many people are having buyer's remorse - not that they purchased a plasma TV but that they didn't get a big enough one!Here are some buying tips to make sure you get the right HDTV for you:
Size - How big do you go? It's a good idea to have a set of measurements in hand when you go to purchase your display. First, you want to make sure how much room you have. Are you using an existing entertainment center? Will it fit on your wall or fireplace mantle? Take measurements not only of where it will go but from where you'll be watching the TV. Determine how far away your chairs or sofa will be -- that matters in how big the HDTV should be. If you're sitting less than 9 feet away, any size under 40 inches should be fine. From 9 feet to 10 feet, you can get a 4o to 42 inch display. Over 10 feet, you'll want to look at 55 to 60 inches or more.
Equipment - Many don't know this but not all HDTVs come with the receiver used to pick up Hi-Def signals. You may need to purchase an HD receiver to get in the right channels. Also, consider that many satellite companies require a completely different receiver for their channels - for example, with DirecTV you need a new receiver and satellite dish. Schedule ahead to make sure these components are installed, otherwise you might have to sit and stare at a very expensive paper weight for a few days.
As prices come down, people are moving over to the high definition arena. But there is so much new equipment and so much information floating about that it's wise to do as much research as you can. The more you know about what type of TV to buy, what size to get, and what you'll be doing with it, the less chance you'll have of any buyer's remorse.
If you need help creating a home theater to go around your new High Definition display, or just need help hanging a plasma or LCD TV, you can post your project request with ConstructionDeal.com. We'll help you find a local home theater or plasma installation pro - for free.
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Labels: Front Projection TV, HDTV, Home Theater Installation, plasma tv
Plasma vs. LCD TVs
27 December 2006
The debate has been raging for some time over which HDTV television technology is the best. Oddly enough, a new voice is speaking up on the differences - Panasonic. Which is odd, because they make both LCD TVs and Plasma display TVs. Supposedly, they wanted to clear up any misconceptions and myths surrounding plasma.
From their website, "Panasonic makes both LCD and Plasma, so we have no ax to grind. We just want you to know the facts.
Today's small screen LCDs are fine for kitchens, bedrooms and home offices. But the larger the LCD screen size (like 37" and above), the worse their problems become.
So if it's big earth-shattering sports and movie experiences you want, with breathtaking natural color, then buy any of our new plasma TVs."
The site goes on to describe the advantages of a plasma TV over the LCD:
Plasma vs. LCD:
If you're looking to turn your HDTV into a home theater and need to find someone to help hang your TV over a fireplace, on the wall, or to create an actual home theater experience - consider ConstructionDeal.com. We can match you - for free - with a local HDTV installer (either plasma or LCD!) and it will save you time and money in the process.
From their website, "Panasonic makes both LCD and Plasma, so we have no ax to grind. We just want you to know the facts.
Today's small screen LCDs are fine for kitchens, bedrooms and home offices. But the larger the LCD screen size (like 37" and above), the worse their problems become.
So if it's big earth-shattering sports and movie experiences you want, with breathtaking natural color, then buy any of our new plasma TVs."
The site goes on to describe the advantages of a plasma TV over the LCD:
Plasma vs. LCD:
- Plasma has darker blacks, better contrast, and great image quality. On the LCDs, blacks look more gray. There is less detail in the image. Plasma looks better on a larger screen, such as a TV in the living room.
- Plasma has smooth, crisp motion during scenes with high speed or fast motion. Quick motions do tend to look more blurry on an LCD screen.
- Plasma screens can reproduce the full range of colors specified in HDTV broadcast standards while LCD displays cannot hit those color ranges completely.
- LCD screens can fade when viewed from more extreme angles while a Plasma screen can be viewed without distortion or color fade from any angle.
- A Plasma TV is more environmentally friendly than an LCD screen because it contains no mercury or lead while the LCD does have mercury in it.
- The Plasma screen is more durable. The LCD screen is apparently more delicate while the Plasma can stand up to use and abuse in the typical family or living room.
If you're looking to turn your HDTV into a home theater and need to find someone to help hang your TV over a fireplace, on the wall, or to create an actual home theater experience - consider ConstructionDeal.com. We can match you - for free - with a local HDTV installer (either plasma or LCD!) and it will save you time and money in the process.
Labels: HDTV, home theater, Home Theater Installation, plasma tv, Plasma TV Installation
Advantages of Plasma
12 December 2006
Everyone knows that they want a plasma TV installed in their home, but here's a little background on why you want Plasma TV:The Advantages of Plasma Television
Picture Perfect - Plasma TVs have a higher resolution picture with no scan lines that you might find in your regular TV. The plasma screen can give you the full high definition picture in 1080i resolution. Scan lines are present when you watch a conventional TV but your plasma display does not operate the same way. Similar to your computer monitor, the pixels within the screen light up in various color shades to that there is no "refreshing" of the screen.
Theater Wide Screens - Televisions normally give you a picture in a nearly square box, called a 4:3 aspect ratio. Whenever you go to the movies, the theater has a much wider screen, with a 16:9 aspect ratio. Since most films were shot in wide screen, if you have a plasma TV you'll be watching the film as it was shot with the full and complete picture on your screen. It won't be chopped off in what's called a Pan & Scan mode that cuts off the sides of the picture frame.
Color Me Beautiful - the plasma picture display has the ability to give you sharper, cleaner, and more brilliant color, contrast, shades, and focus than any conventional television. The image is created digitally and enhanced with high definition technology. The range of color is nearly limitless. The blacks in a plasma display are darker than nearly any other tv, including most rear and front projection HDTVs. Of course, the higher the quality of plasma screen you get, the better your results will be. Plasma does really well when the image on the film or TV show is very dark. It gives an excellent contrast between the darkest blacks and subtle changes to lighter gray tones.
Size Matters - the plasma TV is a flat screen with very little depth required in the case. Rear projection TVs are getting smaller but are still taking up much more room in home theaters. This enables the TV to be placed on the wall, inside TV lift furniture, or from the ceiling. The plasma display is usually only 3 to 5 inches thick so it will fit perfectly on your fireplace mantle. If you need to find a quality plasma TV installation pro, we've got you covered.
Sit Anywhere You Like - the flat screen of plasma allows viewing from nearly every position in the room. A regular TV, even front and rear projection HDTVs, gives picture and brightness distortion when viewed closer to the sides of the screen. Plasma also offers a smooth, even picture all the way across the screen and eliminates the bright spots of regular large screen TVs.There are plenty of great reasons to go with a new plasma HDTV. Do your homework on what you need, the size of screen you need, and reviews of the sets options and picture quality. Then, it's just a matter of shopping around to find the best price. When doing research on quality, google a search for "plasma tv reviews" or "plasma hdtv reviews." When looking for best prices, do a search under "plasma tv price comparison" or "plasma tv best prices" - this should give you websites that compare current prices. If you've got the model of plasma tv already in mind, do the same thing - google, "Sony 42" plasma tv price comparison", etc.
Once you've got your perfect plasma TV, you might need some help installing it. Consider ConstructionDeal.com when looking for plasma installation - we've got a network of installers and you can post your request for free! This will save you from having to look someone up at random from your phone book.
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Labels: Home Technology Installers, Home Theater Installation, plasma tv, Plasma TV Installation
Plasma & LCD TV Installation
04 December 2006
Everyone has been joining the plasma and LCD TV craze and updating to the latest technology as the prices continue to drop down to Earth. The biggest problem that many homeowners have is they can purchase the new TV monitor on their own, but don't know how to install it on their own.Do you need professional tv installation? The short answer - no. It depends on many factors. If you buy a TV stand, it's simply a matter of lining up the holes on the TV and placing it on the stand. If you've got reasonable carpentry skills, you may be able to wall mount your TV on your own. This will mean that you have the ability to find the wall studs and attach the wall mount with the appropriate hardware for your studs (whether they are made of wood or metal.)
Where most people need the help of a professional is when they are mounting their new plasma television and need extras or attributes that most people cannot handle themselves.
If you don't want to have your power cord hanging down the wall from your TV, you may need to hire a local electrician to install an outlet behind your monitor. It is not advisable and is, more than likely, against electrical codes for you to run the power cord through the wall and down to an outlet closer to the floor. You may also try to have the electrician make the outlet recessed so that you have plenty of room for the cord and plug to fit. Try to find a surge protector that be placed on a single power cord plug - if you cannot find protection at that outlet, it would be a good idea to have a whole house surge protector installed at your main electrical box.
If you're looking for a movable or adjustable LCD or plasma display, it would be a good idea to have an installer put in an articulating arm for your monitor - it allows you to pull the TV out and turn it in various directions to be able to view it from different parts of the room or house.
If you're looking to hide most of your cables and wire, hiring a home theater installer would be a good idea. They know how to run cables and have the right tools to make sure the fewest amount of holes need to be made in your walls and ceilings. They can help make sure you use the right cables for your system and make sure you have the correct lengths of cables and wires for ultimate performance.
If you're installing your plasma TV over the fireplace, many do not have the ability to install directly to the fireplace stone or brickwork around the area. A professional installer can help get the monitor up on your fireplace and can make sure it stays there. You're spending a lot of money for a plasma display and you want to make sure nothing happens to it.
To find a quality A/V installer or home theater professional, you can use ConstructionDeal.com -- all you need to do is post your request on our website and it will go out to our network of experts in your area. For a small investment in your system, you'll be rewarded with years of quality plasma TV viewing. And it's a free service to find an installer in your area.
If you only go with the installers where you bought your TV, you won't have any other bids to choose from. This means you could end up paying more for the installation. Save time and money and choose ConstructionDeal.com!
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Labels: home theater, plasma tv, tv installation
What is Home Theater?
29 October 2006
From the About.com website, here are some basic definitions for a home theater application:"A Working Definition Of Home Theater
Home theater refers to a setup of audio and video equipment in your home that tries to duplicate the movie theater experience.
Application Of Home Theater
The application of this definition can vary widely, however. Many consumers are intimidated by the term "Home Theater" as they think this means a lot of money, equipment, and cables running all over the place.
Custom Home Theater
At its most complex, you can indeed have a custom built home theater that costs tens of thousands of dollars with a high end video projector, high end DVD player(s), separate amplifiers for each channel controlled by a master preamp or controller, in-wall speakers, and a couple of sub woofers that can just about shake down the entire neighborhood.
Practical Home Theater For Everyone
However, in reality, home theater as actually applied in most homes, does not consist of an expensive custom installation, nor a lot of money.
A home theater can be something as simple as a 27-inch TV, a basic DVD player and/or HiFi VCR, inexpensive stereo or AV receiver, and speakers. Whatever type of system you end up with, as long as it provides the entertainment options you need and like, then it is your "Home Theater". You can have a home theater in just about any room of the house, a small apartment, office, dorm, or even outside. The option(s) you choose are up to you.
Home Theater As An Entertainment Option
In the final analysis, the application of home theater is intended to provide the consumer with an entertainment option that is suitable for watching television and movies at home with a little extra excitement than you normally get just watching a plain-old TV by itself.
By borrowing from both the image and sound technology of the movie theater and adapting it to the home environment, the consumer can actually approximate the movie theater experience at home, based on the options he/she choose."
If you're looking to install a home theater system in your house, no matter what your budget, you can find one for free on our website - ConstructionDeal.com! We'll match you with a home theater expert in your area and you won't have to waste time searching at random in your phone book. Buying the components to any home theater can be a major investment -- make sure you buy what you need for your home. Our experts can help.
Labels: home theater, plasma tv
