Looking for a new television, but find all the specifications and new technologies confusing? This LCD TV Guideline for non-tech buyers will make finding a breeze.
Like computer monitors, LCD TV's come in several resolutions. HDTV's almost always have an aspect ratio of 16:9, so resolutions are quoted by width. Any TV will be able to support its maximum resolution, as well as any others below it. Blu-Ray and most broadcasts now have a native resolution of 1080p. There are a few very high end sets that have an aspect ratio of 2.35:1 (a bit over 21:9) to match that of movies, but these can display normal HDTV broadcasts as well.
Contrast ratio is a measurement of the difference between the darkest and lightest color a screen can produce. This is standard, and a good indicator of the screen's display quality. Dynamic contrast ratio is measured by varying the brightness of the backlight. While these numbers look impressive, they aren't standardized, and in real world performance won't come close to meeting the stated ratio.
Many new LCD TV's offer Internet connectivity, but the usefulness of this varies depending on the software the set is running. Some may support popular sites like YouTube and Twitter, but others may only have weather reports and a news ticker. Like any computer-based technology, this is quickly changing, and later updates may expand the services a TV will provide.
Connectors should also be taken into consideration. Some TV's have gone completely to HDMI, which is good for HD video sources, but will require adapters if you use older equipment. If you plan on wall mounting your TV, the connectors should be at the bottom of the unit so they are still accessible. However, the location of these plugs can be a problem with TV's placed on a stand, as the wires will take up any space below the TV: Blu-Ray players and other devices will need to be located elsewhere.
No TV can provide good surround-sound performance by itself. Some sets offer "virtual" surround sound. This delays some of the sounds slightly to make it seem like they're farther away. This provides better performance than regular stereo, but if you want a real theater experience a separate sound system is a must. While speaker systems are another article to themselves, this is "LCD TV Guideline for non-tech buyers," keep in mind that you will want a digital audio connector on your TV, as this has become the standard for external systems.
Depending on the setup in the room the TV will be located, viewing angle will also be a consideration. As you move to the left or right of the screen the image darkens, making it unwatchable. Manufacturers rate viewing angle by what angle you can see the image while only having 10% of the screen's contrast. This is a far cry from a viewable image. Fortunately, there's an easy way to test this: go to an electronics store and walk by a display model. If you can't move far from the center of the TV and still have a good picture, don't buy it.
Manufacturers may advertise dozens of features, but with this LCD TV Guideline for non-tech buyers you'll know what to look for to buy a set you'll love.
Zeeman Haus enjoys writing articles online on a variety of subjects. You can check out his latest website on 7 Inch LCD TV which reviews and lists the best LCD TVs to help you pick the best one for your needs.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Zeeman_Haus
Best Price LCD TVs at Amazon UK
Read more
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
How to Wall Mount Plasma Or LCD TVs
A lot of people shy away from mounting their brand new plasma or LCD TV on the wall because they think it's a job that involves a lot of work, or something that can only be done by a professional installer. This certainly is not the case! Mounting your TV on the wall not only offers you the best possible viewing position, it also helps to free up valuable floor space and easily adds a contemporary touch of style to any room. This article will guide you through the process, and in no time at all your new TV will have pride of place on your wall.
The first job is to choose a suitable wall mount. The three basic types are fixed mounts, tilt mounts and tilt and swivel mounts. Fixed mounts can't be adjusted and hold the TV flat against the wall. Tilt mounts allow you to tilt the TV vertically, while tilt and swivel mounts (including those with articulated arms) allow you to tilt the TV vertically, and also pivot it horizontally - these are good to use if you want to be able to watch the TV from another room. There's a lot of information available online about the different types of mount, so do your research. If you are still in doubt then the sales assistant at the store should be able to help you find a mount that meets your needs.
Mounting your TV on the wall doesn't require any specialist equipment, just a few simple household tools such as a stud finder, spirit level, drill, screwdriver, tape measure and a spanner. Now you have all the tools you need, let's get started!
Step 1 - Use the stud finder to locate the studs inside your walls and mark these out with a pencil. After spending your hard earned cash on a new TV you want to make sure that it is securely mounted to the wall studs rather than just plasterboard. Plasterboard isn't strong enough to support the weight and it wouldn't be long before your new TV goes crashing to the floor!
Step 2 - Most brackets come in 2 parts: one that attaches to the back of the TV, and one that is mounted on the wall. You then attach these 2 together and your TV is mounted. Attach the appropriate piece to the back of your TV. Most mounts have various holes to accommodate different TV sizes. Secure this part to your TV with the various washers, bolts and spacers supplied. Be sure to read the instructions supplied with your mount if you are in any doubt.
Step 3 - Now you need to decide on the ideal place for your TV to be mounted. Figure out where you want your TV to be hung, making sure that you select a position that allows the TV mount to be securely attached to the wall studs that you located in step 1. Mark out this location on the wall using a pencil and then sit down where you usually watch TV to make sure you are happy with the viewing angle and that it won't strain your eyes or neck to look at the screen.
Step 4 - Now it's time to actually attach the second part of the mount to the wall. Drill a hole and attach the mount to the wall stud, using the supplied screws or bolts to secure it in place. Use the spirit level to make sure that the mount is level - the last thing you want is for your TV to be lopsided. Repeat this process until the mount is securely fastened to the wall.
Step 5 - With the second part of the mount securely fastened to the wall it is time to hang the TV. Even modern TVs can be quite heavy, so it's always best to get a friend or family member to help you with this. Lift the TV up, and slide the part of the mount attached to the back of the TV into the part mounted to the wall. The instructions supplied with the mount will explain how the mechanism for your specific mount operates. Once your TV is on the wall secure it using any necessary bolts or screws to ensure that it is firmly locked in position.
Your new TV should now be safely fastened to the wall, so sit back and enjoy!
Want a quality TV wall mount without spending a fortune? Chrome Audio stock a huge range of plasma TV mounts, LCD TV mounts and the latest LED TV wall mounts.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bobby_Wright
Best Price LCD TVs at Amazon UK Read more
The first job is to choose a suitable wall mount. The three basic types are fixed mounts, tilt mounts and tilt and swivel mounts. Fixed mounts can't be adjusted and hold the TV flat against the wall. Tilt mounts allow you to tilt the TV vertically, while tilt and swivel mounts (including those with articulated arms) allow you to tilt the TV vertically, and also pivot it horizontally - these are good to use if you want to be able to watch the TV from another room. There's a lot of information available online about the different types of mount, so do your research. If you are still in doubt then the sales assistant at the store should be able to help you find a mount that meets your needs.
Mounting your TV on the wall doesn't require any specialist equipment, just a few simple household tools such as a stud finder, spirit level, drill, screwdriver, tape measure and a spanner. Now you have all the tools you need, let's get started!
Step 1 - Use the stud finder to locate the studs inside your walls and mark these out with a pencil. After spending your hard earned cash on a new TV you want to make sure that it is securely mounted to the wall studs rather than just plasterboard. Plasterboard isn't strong enough to support the weight and it wouldn't be long before your new TV goes crashing to the floor!
Step 2 - Most brackets come in 2 parts: one that attaches to the back of the TV, and one that is mounted on the wall. You then attach these 2 together and your TV is mounted. Attach the appropriate piece to the back of your TV. Most mounts have various holes to accommodate different TV sizes. Secure this part to your TV with the various washers, bolts and spacers supplied. Be sure to read the instructions supplied with your mount if you are in any doubt.
Step 3 - Now you need to decide on the ideal place for your TV to be mounted. Figure out where you want your TV to be hung, making sure that you select a position that allows the TV mount to be securely attached to the wall studs that you located in step 1. Mark out this location on the wall using a pencil and then sit down where you usually watch TV to make sure you are happy with the viewing angle and that it won't strain your eyes or neck to look at the screen.
Step 4 - Now it's time to actually attach the second part of the mount to the wall. Drill a hole and attach the mount to the wall stud, using the supplied screws or bolts to secure it in place. Use the spirit level to make sure that the mount is level - the last thing you want is for your TV to be lopsided. Repeat this process until the mount is securely fastened to the wall.
Step 5 - With the second part of the mount securely fastened to the wall it is time to hang the TV. Even modern TVs can be quite heavy, so it's always best to get a friend or family member to help you with this. Lift the TV up, and slide the part of the mount attached to the back of the TV into the part mounted to the wall. The instructions supplied with the mount will explain how the mechanism for your specific mount operates. Once your TV is on the wall secure it using any necessary bolts or screws to ensure that it is firmly locked in position.
Your new TV should now be safely fastened to the wall, so sit back and enjoy!
Want a quality TV wall mount without spending a fortune? Chrome Audio stock a huge range of plasma TV mounts, LCD TV mounts and the latest LED TV wall mounts.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bobby_Wright
Best Price LCD TVs at Amazon UK Read more
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Fujifilm FinePix J30 Digital Camera - Black (12.2MP, 3x Zoom) 2.7 inch LCD
Fujifilm FinePix J30 Digital Camera - Black (12.2MP, 3x Zoom) 2.7 inch LCD
From FUJIFILM
Price: £69.99 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Delivery on orders over £5. Details
Editorial Reviews
Manufacturer's Description
If you're looking for a compact camera that's easy-to-use, slim & stylish, and kind to the wallet, then look no further than Fujifilm's new 12.2 Megapixel FinePix J30. Its sleek and elegant shell is packed full of some really great technology that will make your picture taking a snap!
With a core specification of 12.2 Megapixels with a Fujinon 3x optical zoom, a large 2.7" LCD screen, Sensitivity of up to ISO 3200 and anti-blur technology, you can be sure your images will come out clear and sharp.
Super slim and super stylish
Measuring only 20mm thin this slender little camera is the perfect companion for day-to-day snapping as well as other occasions where you want a discreet camera you can just slip in to your pocket or bag. As well as being petite, the FinePix J30 oozes luxury, with its high-gloss, double coated veneer finish.
Panoramic Shooting Mode stitches three photos
together to create a panoramic photo
NEW! Create your own panoramic shots
With Fujifilm's Panoramic shooting mode, you can now do justice to those sweeping landscapes on your next holiday or capture that precious shot of a large family group. All you need to do is take three consecutive shots of a scene and this clever technology seamlessly stitches them together to create one panoramic image.
SR AUTO automatically detects the scene
in the frame and optimises the camera's settings
Get great shots every time
Fujifilm's Automatic Scene Recognition (SR AUTO) technology intelligently recognises the type of scene you are shooting and adjusts the camera settings to optimise results, saving you the hassle of selecting the scene type yourself. All you have to do is point the camera at the scene and press the shutter button – the FinePix J30 will know what you're taking a photo of and automatically optimise the camera's settings. SR AUTO can detect up to six scene types: Portrait, Landscape, Night Portrait, Backlit Portrait, Macro and Night.
Face Detection detects faces and sets
focus and exposure for perfect portraits
For perfect people pictures Face Detection technology detects faces in a frame and sets the focus and exposure for the faces rather than anything in the background, revealing sharp and in-focus portraits. Further more, auto red-eye removal detects any red-eye in playback and removes it straight away.
Large, bright 2.7" LCD Screen
The FinePix J30 features a large, 2.7" LCD screen which is ideal for composing and viewing your photos. Plus, the very handy Microthumbnail View function displays up to 100 thumbs of your photos on the back of the screen so you can quickly and easily go through your photos and find your favourite shots.
Recharge your batteries
Featuring a Lithium-ion rechargeable battery and charger you can happily shoot stills and movies safe in the knowledge that you will never run short of battery life.
From FUJIFILM
Price: £69.99 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Delivery on orders over £5. Details
Editorial Reviews
Manufacturer's Description
If you're looking for a compact camera that's easy-to-use, slim & stylish, and kind to the wallet, then look no further than Fujifilm's new 12.2 Megapixel FinePix J30. Its sleek and elegant shell is packed full of some really great technology that will make your picture taking a snap!
With a core specification of 12.2 Megapixels with a Fujinon 3x optical zoom, a large 2.7" LCD screen, Sensitivity of up to ISO 3200 and anti-blur technology, you can be sure your images will come out clear and sharp.
Super slim and super stylish
Measuring only 20mm thin this slender little camera is the perfect companion for day-to-day snapping as well as other occasions where you want a discreet camera you can just slip in to your pocket or bag. As well as being petite, the FinePix J30 oozes luxury, with its high-gloss, double coated veneer finish.
Panoramic Shooting Mode stitches three photos
together to create a panoramic photo
NEW! Create your own panoramic shots
With Fujifilm's Panoramic shooting mode, you can now do justice to those sweeping landscapes on your next holiday or capture that precious shot of a large family group. All you need to do is take three consecutive shots of a scene and this clever technology seamlessly stitches them together to create one panoramic image.
SR AUTO automatically detects the scene
in the frame and optimises the camera's settings
Get great shots every time
Fujifilm's Automatic Scene Recognition (SR AUTO) technology intelligently recognises the type of scene you are shooting and adjusts the camera settings to optimise results, saving you the hassle of selecting the scene type yourself. All you have to do is point the camera at the scene and press the shutter button – the FinePix J30 will know what you're taking a photo of and automatically optimise the camera's settings. SR AUTO can detect up to six scene types: Portrait, Landscape, Night Portrait, Backlit Portrait, Macro and Night.
Face Detection detects faces and sets
focus and exposure for perfect portraits
For perfect people pictures Face Detection technology detects faces in a frame and sets the focus and exposure for the faces rather than anything in the background, revealing sharp and in-focus portraits. Further more, auto red-eye removal detects any red-eye in playback and removes it straight away.
Large, bright 2.7" LCD Screen
The FinePix J30 features a large, 2.7" LCD screen which is ideal for composing and viewing your photos. Plus, the very handy Microthumbnail View function displays up to 100 thumbs of your photos on the back of the screen so you can quickly and easily go through your photos and find your favourite shots.
Recharge your batteries
Featuring a Lithium-ion rechargeable battery and charger you can happily shoot stills and movies safe in the knowledge that you will never run short of battery life.
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