Buying an LCD Flat Screen TV

LCD screens are everywhere, even if you don’t currently own an LCD flat screen TV. Chances are you’ve used the technology today: on a clock, a microwave oven, a car dashboard, a calculator, a stereo, on the gas pump display…. The applications for liquid crystal displays (LCDs) are endless, so it’s no surprise the technology has extended to LCD flat screen TVs. It’s a natural fit of technology and use.

Before you buy an LCD flat screen TV, there are a few things to keep in mind. Most importantly, you’ll need to determine the right screen size based on how much you can afford and where you’ll place the TV. The majority of LCD flat panel TVs are 20” and smaller, but TVs with screen sizes of 26”, 32”, 37”, 42” and higher are becoming more popular. You may think the larger the screen the better, but instead you should try to create the right distance between you and your screen to optimize your viewing experience.
Here’s a basic rule of thumb:

Here’s a basic rule of thumb:
With 20 to 27-inch displays, you should be able to watch comfortably from 2.5 to 5 feet away
With 32 to 37-inch TVs, you should sit back 6 to 8 feet from the screen itself
With 42 to 46-inch TVs, you'll need 10 to 14 feet between you and the screen
50-inch LCD displays look best when viewed from 12 to 16 feet away

So, if your room is small… don’t overwhelm yourself (and the room) with a huge LCD flat screen TV.

Now think about how you’ll place or mount your LCD flat screen TV. LCD technology gives you new options when it comes to where you’ll put the screen. There are five basic ways to install your new LCD flat panel TV:

Flat wall mounts allow you to maximize the space-saving benefits of flat screen TVs. Mounting the screen flat on the wall only adds about two inches to the total distance away from the wall.
Tilt wall mounts let you to place your TV above eye level, keeping it out of the way though readily viewable from anywhere in the room. This mounting option is typically used to install LCD monitors above fireplaces and in bedrooms. The tilt wall mount adds from 4 to 6 inches to the total distance from the wall.

Table stands are an easy way to place your LCD flat panel TV. Each display has its own custom-fitted table stand, though: in many cases one is included with the TV, but occasionally you’ll have to buy the stand separately.

Articulating wall mounts use swivel arms to place LCD TV flush with the wall and out of the way when not in use. When you pull it out, the articulating mount lets you turn the LCD flat panel TV sideways and up and down for handier viewing.

Ceiling mounts let you to mount your LCD flat panel TV on the ceiling if a wall isn’t available. Usually ceiling mounts have tilt options so you can angle the screen downward for easier viewing.

Finally, make sure you shop around. LCD flat panel TVs come in a tremendous variety of sizes, with a broad range of features and accessories available. Take time to look for the right unit for you, and shop around for a retailer that offers the best price combined with excellent service. And don’t forget to ask about warranties – make sure you’re covered in case something goes wrong with your LCD flat panel TV. It’s not likely to, but a warranty is excellent insurance against that possibility.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Copyright © 2006