Plasma and LCD - Resolution

Screen resolution is a major factor when comparing different plasma or LCD televisions. The resolution factor refers to the number of pixels used to create the final picture on the screen. There are many resolution options available depending on the size of the screen and the manufacturer, though personal preference should always be the deciding factor when purchasing a high end plasma television.

Types of resolution

What separates the men from the boys when it comes to the television? Picture quality! Today, technology has advanced to provide us with digital pictures and widescreen formats. With this came the introduction of higher resolutions such as Enhanced Definition (EDTV), and High Definition (HDTV), providing the clearest picture available on the market.

Pixels and High Definition

All televisions have a set number of pixels which generate the on screen image, commonly known as native resolution. All signals will be either up-converted or down-converted according to the set native resolution of the television. Higher resolution screens work best with enhanced signals such as HDTV and EDTV. These signals are set to match up with the high quality output that plasma televisions are capable of. Personal preference is by far the best measure when comparing the screen resolutions of different models of plasma screens.

What to choose?

Be brand conscious when contemplating a plasma television purchase. Many manufacturers have added components that help with the conversion of the inbound signal to the screen. The difference between an EDTV screen and an HDTV screen can be in the hundreds of dollars! Eighty percent of the content available to viewers is not high definition, though this will change within a few years. Decide based on your viewing area and budget how high a resolution your plasma screen needs to be. Just be sure to invite some friends and bring the popcorn!

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