DLP technology is one of the fastest growing segments of the television market, and as of 2004 DLP TVs had captured a full 10% of the market for new televisions. DLP televisions use the same technology that has long been used to power projectors and similar devices. The technology that makes DLP televisions possible was invented at Texas Instruments back in 1987, and Texas Instruments remains the primary manufacturer of this technology to this day. What makes DLP television technology so unique is that it uses a small digital micromirror device, or DMD, to tilt over 1.3 million tiny mirrors, each smaller than the width of a human hair. Each of these tiny mirrors is tilted either toward or away from the source of the light, thus producing the light and dark pixels that make up the display. DLP televisions are rear projection TVs, but they are not as large, as heavy or as bulky as the traditional rear projection televisions of years past. The manufacturers of these DLP televisions reads like a veritable whos who of electronics manufacturers, including such well known brand names as Sony, Samsung, Phillips, Toshiba and others. When shopping for one of these televisions, it is important to review the models carefully and to read the reviews of the various models you are considering. The quality of these TVs varies widely from manufacturer to manufacturer and model to model, so it is important to shop around carefully. The prices of these televisions varies quite a bit as well, with the larger televisions in general costing more than the smaller ones. Typical prices for a 50 HDTV ready DLP television range from about $1,500 to just over $2,500, but the actual price will of course vary according to the features of the actual model. DLP televisions are available in both standard and widescreen format, so it is important to consider your own preferences and viewing habits when shopping for a new TV. Many consumers prefer the truer theatre quality picture of a widescreen TV, while others prefer a traditional shaped TV. For those who plan to upgrade to HDTV in the future, however, it is worth noting that HDTV signals are transmitted with widescreen viewing devices in mind. What to Expect from a DLP TV There are a number of advantages, and some disadvantages, when it comes to enjoying television and movies on a DLP screen. The major competitor for DLP, in terms of both pricing and quality, is the plasma TV, and in some cases the higher end LCD TVs. It is a good idea for any consumer considering the purchase of a DLP TV to look at plasma and LCD TVs as well. Lets start with a look at the advantages of DLP TV technology. This technology does come with a number of important features and benefits, including: *Smooth, jitter free images
*None of the screen burn in that can plague other types of TVs
*Good contrast and good color depth
*DLP rear projection TVs are thinner, smaller and more lightweight than traditional TVs
*Replaceable light source
*Long lasting light source some new units tested have an estimated lamp life of 20,000 hours Of course where there are advantages there are disadvantages, and it is important for all TV shoppers to understand that DLP technology is not perfect. Some may prefer plasma TVs to DLP, even though plasma TVs tend to be a bit more pricey. The disadvantages of DLP television technology include: *They are not as thin or as slender looking as the best plasma displays, even though the actual weight is comparable.
*Even though the bulbs are user replaceable and built to last, they are quite expensive. most models of bulb used to power DLP TVs sell for between $200 and $500.
*Some models may have fans that are quite noisy. It is important to listen carefully to the fan when making a decision between models. DLP or Plasma? The major competitor to DLP television technology is the plasma TV, and it is important to consider the quality of the picture, the clarity and the depth of color of these two competing technologies before making a decision. Both technologies can provide exceptional depth of color and excellent clarity, so it is important to look carefully at the actual specifications of the TV in which you are interested. Reading the specifications will tell you a great deal about the quality you can expect. One of the most significant advantages of DLP technology lies in its brightness and its viewing angle. Whats more, DLP televisions can have an excellent viewing angle, certainly much better than older models of rear projection televisions and often just as good as that of a plasma TV. DLP televisions are very bright and attractive, and there is nothing to burn out except for a single lamp. While these lamps are quite expensive, ranging from $200 to $500, they are easy to replace, and most of them have a very long life expectancy. The size of the DLP TV is another important consideration, and since they are rear projection TVs DLP TVs are quite well suited to the larger sizes in which they are available. Even large DLP televisions can often fit well on a tabletop or a stand, and they are available in 40, 50, 61 and a number of other sizes. In some cases the DLP TV will require nearly as much room as the traditional rear projection television, but in other cases they will need much less space. It is important to measure the TV carefully to make sure it will be suitable for the room where it will be situated. When it comes to price, DLP televisions clearly have the advantage, with the prices of DLP technology being less than the price of a plasma TV on a per viewing inch basis. It is important, of course to shop around as much as possible. Shopping around will help ensure you are able to get not only the lowest price but the best overall value as well. For more info. see: http://www.planetomni.com |
