Should You Buy A Plasma TV Or LCD TV?

Both plasma and LCD technology are the latest technology available in home entertainment. They are less bulky than the traditional cathode ray tube televisions and offer better resolution and high quality pictures.

So which one is better? Plasma TV or LCD TV? Since they are priced almost the same, it can be difficult to determine which is the better one.

The answer depends on what you plan to do with it. The technology behind these plasma and LCD is quite different.

For plasma tv, it is made up of thousands and thousands of small pixels with the color scheme RGB (Red, Green and Blue). These primary colors can combine to produce millions of variations of colors.

A plasma tv consists of two panels that are filled in between with neon gas or xenon. As electricity is passed through the gas, it becomes liquid and can generate light. The light in turns lights the pixels and together the pixels form a image. Now this happens quite quickly up to 50 frames per second.

I would recommend getting a plasma tv if you are watching movies etc. It has a higher colour resolution and clearer picture image than LCD TV.

LCD TV uses a panel of cells that are filled with liquid crystals. When the electricity is passed through these cells, the liquid crystals allows lights to pass through or be filtered. By blocking the different wavelengths of lights, the different colours are displayed. It works in a way like a prism.

I would recommend a LCD TV if you use it for digital photography or playing computer games. The response time are better for LCD TV compared to Plasma TV and can be used as a monitor for your computer.

Plasma TV and LCD TV each have their own applications and use with both advantages and disadvantages. The decision to buy which one will depend on your needs

Ricky Lim is an avid home theater fan. Visit his site for more info about home theater accessories and home movie theater.

Plasma TV vs LCD TV - Which is Better?

Plasma TV vs. LCD TV

You know you want to buy a flat-screen TV but you don't know if a plasma TV or an LCD TV would be your best choice.

This article explains the differences between plasma versus LCD TVs, then shows you how to get the best price for a plasma or LCD TV.

Plasma TV

A plasma TV screen consists of millions of multi-colored gas-filled cells. When electricity passes through the cells they light up and produce a picture.

Plasma TV screens have a much higher resolution than tube TV screens. In fact, the picture is so clear it's almost like watching a scene through a window.

Screen sizes range from 42" to 65" wide and are 3" to 4" thick.

LCD TV

LCD (light crystal display) TV screens are made up of a thin layer of liquid crystals sandwiched between two glass plates. When an electricity is sent through the crystals an array of tiny multi-colored pixels light up to create a picture.

LCD TV screens are thinner and lighter than plasma screens. They are the most screens for computers, and are quickly gaining popularity as TV screens.

LCD TV screens are anywhere from 1/4" to 4" thick and 2" to 65" wide.

Plasma vs. LCD Features

Picture Quality

When it comes to which type of TV screen is sharper and shows more detail, plasma TVs have a slight edge over LCD TVs, though LCD TVs are catching up.

Plasma TVs are also slightly better when it comes to viewing angle - how far you can sit to one side of a TV screen before picture quality is affected.

Screen Life

Screen life is the number of hours a TV provides before the picture begins to fade. Plasma TVs have a screen life of about 30,000 to 60,00 hours, depending on the make and model, while LCD TV's have a screen life of 60,000 hours or more.

Plasma TVs are also subject to "burn in." This occurs when a TV displays a still image long enough for a ghost of that image to be burned into the screen. LCD TVs do not have this problem.

HD TV

Both plasma and LCD TVs display HD (high definition) signals for a sharper, more three dimensional picture. LCD TVs, however, have a slightly higher resolution (more screen pixels) then plasma TVs.

Video Games

Plasma and LCD TVs are both great for video gaming, however because of plasma TV's tendency toward screen burn in, an LCD TV is the better choice if you play a lot of video games.

Portability

LCD TVs are thinner and lighter than plasma TVs, making them easier to move and easier to mount on a wall.

Plasma vs LCD TV prices

When it comes to which type of TV gives you the most bang for the buck, it depends on what you're looking for.

If you're looking for a large-screen TV - 42" or larger - plasma TVs are currently cheaper than than similar-sized LCD TVs. When I recently compared prices on 42" TVs, the cheapest plasma TV was $999, while the cheapest LCD TV was $1,367.

When it comes to mid-size TVs, I couldn't find plasma TVs smaller than 42." The cheapest 32" LCD TV I found was $619, while the cheapest 27" LCD TV was $550.

Visit the http://TheSatelliteTVGuide.com to get more information, to compare prices, and to get consumer ratings for plasma TVs and LCD Tvs.

With Respect to the Quality of the Image, Plasma technology is the Best TV

It's really hard to say what the best TV is these days. With plasma and LCD TVs coming out left and right, capable of HDTV and EDTV, its dizzying trying to keep up with the advances. Every company claims that they have the best TV, and I'm finding it pretty hard to tell the difference. Since I'm in the market for a new television, I've been looking into it, and here's what I think so far.

Plasma technology is in my opinion the most advanced technology on the market as of today. However, I'm not really sure plasma TVs are the best TVs. First of all, they are riddled with all sorts of technical issues from what I've been able to determine. Of course, the people who make them don't really want you to know that, but from everything I've been reading and hearing, they have a maximum life expectancy of maybe 5 years tops. Sure, they are probably the best TVs out there when it comes to picture quality, but you have to weigh it against their still exuberant price tag, and low lifespan. They are pretty sweet though, and when I see one in a store I can't help but drool just a little!

LCD screen televisions are almost as good with respect to quality, in my opinion. Maybe not the best TVs available, but they may just be the best combination of luxury and affordability. Of course, they are still fairly expensive, especially when you start getting into the 30+ inch sizes, but their price tags are dropping. It looks to me that LCD technology in general is going to be a sort of standard in the near future, both with televisions and monitors. For this reason, I suspect that many of the best TVs will in fact be made with LCD technology, even if its not the most state of the art concept we have available to us.

Then of course there's the good old CRT TV. These are clearly not the best TVs with respect to the quality of the image, but they work great, are tried and tested, and always very affordable compared to their more advanced cousins. The money you save on going with CRT TV may allow you to get a much larger TV. Sure, it'll be clunky and a pain in the ass to move, but bigger is better, right?

After all is said and done, it's impossible to say what the best TV is. The best TV is the one that meets yours needs better than any other, so it really depends on what your needs are.

Muna wa Wanjiru has been researching and reporting on LCD Plasma TVs for years. visit his site at http://www.merpetsales.com/how-plasma-tvs-and-lcd-tvs-differ.html

Consumer Reports - Plasma-TVS

Plasma TVs make a blockbuster first impression. A scant 6 inches thick or less, these sleek flat panels display bright images on screens measuring about 3 to 5 feet diagonally.

A plasma screen is made up of thousands of pixels containing gas that's converted into "plasma" by an electrical charge. The plasma causes phosphors to glow red, green, or blue, as dictated by a video signal. The result: a colorful display with high brightness and a wider viewing angle than most rear-projection sets and LCD (liquid-crystal display) TVs. Thanks to steady improvements in plasma technology, the best of these sets have excellent or very good picture quality. Some picture-tube TVs still do slightly better with fine detail, color accuracy, and subtle gradations of black and gray, but plasma TVs are coming closer.

However, the picture isn't all rosy. Like projection TVs using CRT (cathode-ray tube) technology, plasma sets are vulnerable to screen burn-in. Also, plasma sets run hotter and consume more power than any other type of TV. Because plasma sets are relatively new, their long-term reliability is still a question.

WHAT'S AVAILABLE

When buying a plasma TV, you'll face a choice between HD (high definition) and ED (enhanced definition) sets, which cost less. The two types differ in native resolution, meaning the fixed number of pixels on the screen. In a spec like 852x480, note the second number. If it's 480, the set is ED; 720 or higher, it's HD. Both types of sets should be capable of up- or down-converting signals to match their native resolution. ED sets can display the full detail of 480p signals such as those output by a progressive-scan DVD player. When connected to an HD tuner, many can down-convert HD signals (which are 720p or 1080i) to suit their lower-resolution screens. While you won't see true HD, the picture quality can be very good. If you sit too close to an ED set, though, images may appear coarser than on an HDTV, as if you were looking through a screen door.

There's another major choice. Within the HD category, there are three types of TV sets: HD-ready sets. Also called HDTV monitors, these sets can display standard-definition analog programs (which still account for most non-prime-time TV broadcasts) on their own. To display digital programs, they require a digital tuner to decode those broadcasts. If you're getting your HD programming from cable or satellite, your digital cable box or satellite receiver has the appropriate digital decoder built in. All you have to do is connect your HD-ready TV to the box and you're all set. Cable companies charge a small rental fee for digital or HD-capable boxes. To receive HD via satellite, you need an HD receiver and special dish antenna(e). Together, these cost about $300, but you may be able to get them from the satellite company at little or no charge as part of a promotion.

You can also get digital broadcasts, including HD, over the air, via an antenna. To do so, you'll have to buy a digital tuner called an ATSC (Advanced Television Systems Committee) tuner--the external box costs a few hundred dollars. However, there's no charge for service as there is with cable or satellite. Some satellite receivers also offer a built-in ATSC digital tuner. To receive digital programming via antenna, you must be fairly close to a transmitter, with an unobstructed view. With digital signals, you'll either have a clear, strong signal or none at all.

Integrated HDTV sets. These have the ATSC digital tuner built in, which enables them to decode any digital signals, including HD with no additional equipment when used with a roof antenna. You may be able to receive the major networks' HD offerings transmitted over the air in your area, but not the premium channels available on satellite and cable. To get HD via cable or satellite, integrated sets require an HD-capable cable box, CableCard, or satellite receiver--the built-in digital tuner only works for off-air digital broadcasts. As of July 2005, all new TVs 36 inches and larger--a category covering most plasma TVs--were required to have a built-in digital tuner to comply with a government ruling. Although integrated HDTVs have a digital tuner for off-air programs, most of these sets still require an HD-capable cable box or satellite receiver to get cable or satellite.

Digital-Cable-Ready (DCR) sets. Some new integrated models, called digital-cable-ready (DCR) or plug-and-play sets, can receive digital-cable programming without using a set-top box. For HD and premium cable programming--and possibly for any digital programming--you must insert a CableCard into a slot on the set. You usually have to pay a few dollars a month to rent the card from the cable company. Current DCR TVs are not interactive, so even with a CableCard in the slot they can't provide features such as an interactive program guide, video on demand, or pay-per-view ordering via remote. Second-generation DCR TVs and CableCards should be here soon, and they're expected to have two-way capability, allowing for interactive features. Integrated sets typically cost more than HD-ready sets, with digital-cable-ready models costing the most.

Among the brands in the plasma TV category are Hitachi, Panasonic, Philips, Pioneer, Samsung, Sharp, Sony, and Toshiba. Prices have dropped sharply over the past year or two. At publication time, HD-ready models with 40- to 44-inch screens, the best-selling size, were going for $3,000 to $5,000 or more. TVs with 50-inch or larger screens were selling for $4,500 and up. Look for prices to fall further, now that companies such as Dell and ViewSonic have expanded from the computer arena into TVs with aggressive pricing.

IMPORTANT FEATURES

Plasma TVs have most of the features that are now standard on direct-view, CRT-based TVs, plus some features that are less common. These include picture-in-picture (PIP), which lets you watch two channels at once, one in a small picture alongside the full-screen image. A single-tuner TV requires another device with a tuner, such as a VCR or cable box, to display two programs at once; dual-tuner models can display two programs simultaneously on their own.

Most TVs have several types of inputs that handle varying levels of quality. A cable/antenna, or radio frequency (RF), input is the most basic connection, and it can be used with almost any video source. A composite-video input will give you slightly better picture quality and is often used with a VCR or regular cable box. An S-video input lets you take advantage of the still-better picture quality from a digital-cable box, a satellite-dish system, a DVD player, or a digital camcorder. A component-video input offers superior quality, making this a good choice for progressive-scan DVD players, high-definition satellite receivers, and HD digital-cable boxes that have the corresponding output. HDTVs have DVI or HDMI inputs, which provide a high-quality digital connection to devices such as DVD players, digital-cable boxes, and satellite receivers. These connections allow the content providers to control your ability to record certain programming. Many sets have more than one of a given type of input. Having two or three S-video or component-video inputs is a plus. For a camcorder or video game, front-panel A/V inputs are helpful.

Audio outputs let you direct a stereo TV's audio signal to a receiver or to self-powered speakers. An automatic volume leveler compensates for the jarring volume jumps that often accompany commercials or changes in channel. Some plasma sets have a separate control unit--a video receiver, in effect, that accepts connections more easily than a panel you've had mounted onto a wall.

If you watch many movies, look for a Film mode feature on ED and HD sets. This feature is also called 3:2 pulldown compensation or brand-specific names such as CineMotion. This can make moving images that were converted from film to video look less jerky, with less jaggedness around the edges. On 16:9 sets, stretch and zoom modes will expand or compress an image to better fill the screen shape. This helps to reduce the dark bands that can appear around images if you watch content formatted for one screen shape on a TV that has the other shape. (The picture may be distorted or cut off a bit in the process of stretching and zooming). Those bars make the picture slightly smaller and use the phosphors unevenly, which may leave ghosted images on the screen over time. This "burn-in" may be also a risk with any images left on the screen for long periods--say from a stock ticker.

HOW TO CHOOSE

Decide whether you want true HD or the next best thing. HD sets generally perform better than ED sets with all types of signals. They may be worth the higher cost if you're a purist who wants the best image quality. Most ED plasma sets can down-convert an HD signal to fit their lower resolution, so you can still enjoy HD programming. While it won't be true HD quality, it can be very good. Minor differences in resolution between two HD sets or two ED sets won't necessarily determine overall image quality. Other factors affect the picture, such as the way a TV converts a signal to fit the screen and its ability to render subtle shading. Note that the shiny surface of a plasma TV can produce annoying reflections, especially in brightly lit rooms. Many of these sets look best in low light.

Weigh screen size against price. If you're buying a plasma TV, an important question is how much screen you can afford. All other things being equal, the bigger the screen, the bigger the price tag, and the greater the viewing distance you need to see optimal picture quality. You'll enjoy the best viewing experience if you sit at least 6 feet away from a 42-inch HD set, and a little farther from an ED set or larger screen.

Beware of burn-in and burnout. Plasma TVs are prone to burn-in, much like CRT-based rear-projection TVs. Over time, static images from fixed items displayed for long periods (such as a video game or a stock ticker) can leave permanent ghosted impressions on-screen, so minimize the risk as much as you can.

You may have seen reports, in print or online, suggesting that plasma TVs may not last as long as other types of TVs. Overall longevity and reliability is an open question because the technology is so new. Major manufacturers now tout 60,000 hours of use or more before a recent-model plasma screen loses half its brightness. Even in heavy use (40 hours a week), that's about 29 years.

Don't get hung up on specs. Ads touting high contrast ratios and brightness (cd/m2, or candelas per square meter) may sway you to one set or another. Don't pay much heed. Manufacturers arrive at specs differently, so they may not be comparable. Try adjusting sets in the store yourself to compare contrast and brightness.

Determine what's included when comparing prices. Most other types of TVs come with speakers and a tuner at least for standard channels. (A digital tuner for HD isn't included with any HD-ready or ED-ready set.) Some plasmas are purely monitors only, sold with no sound capabilities whatsoever; they don't include speakers or a tuner for any type of TV signal. You won't have to pay for a tuner if you'll be using a cable box or satellite receiver, which would serve as the tuner for all programming. Otherwise you'll need a set-top box to work with an antenna. You'll have to pay extra for optional speakers unless you plan to connect the set to your existing sound system.

Consider the logistics. Ads for plasma TVs may not show any wires, but you'll probably be connecting a cable box or satellite receiver and a DVD player, and possibly a VCR and audio receiver as well. You can tuck wires behind the TV if you place it on a stand. With wall-mounting, you can run the wires behind the wall or through conduits, a task that might be best handled by a professional. Often weighing 100 pounds or more, plasma TVs need adequate support and ample ventilation because of the heat they generate. Ask the retailer to recommend an installer or contact the Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association (800-669-5329 or www.cedia.net). Figure on $300 to $1,000 for labor, plus a few hundred dollars for mounting brackets.

Weigh the merits of an extended warranty. While extended warranties aren't worthwhile for most products, they may be for high-priced devices using new technologies. Because plasma TVs are costly items that haven't yet established a track record for reliability, check into the cost of a service plan. Find out whether in-home service is covered and whether a replacement is provided if a set can't be repaired.

For the latest information on this and many other products and services, visit www.ConsumerReports.org.

Find More Plasma TVs with Easy Deal at ShopNdeal.com

Plasma TV Verses LCD TV

When shopping for a new TV it's important to determine which technology is best suited for your needs. In the world of flat panel televisions, you'll have to choose between a plasma television and an LCD. Obviously, the technologies behind these units are quite different. Plasma televisions use gases like xenon and argon to create their pictures. LCDs use a layer of electrically responsive crystals that can be altered to vary the spectrum of light shining through at various locations on the screen. How will you know which technology to choose? Here are some observations that may help you decide.

Both LCDs and newer plasma televisions have comparable life spans. The LCD is purported to last several years longer, but both units will last for decades. Also, the picture quality with both of these units is about the same. Some LCDs provide a more crisp resolution, but on the whole there is little difference. Finally, newer generations of plasma televisions have reduced power consumptions comparable to that of LCDs. This previous advantage was corrected from the power vacuum first-generation plasma units. LCDs don't have to worry about phosphors and aren't at risk for burn-in. This difference is being corrected with each new generation of plasma television. LCDs are also lighter and thinner than comparably sized plasma televisions. This is very useful if space if a premium in your home, though the size difference is only a matter of an inch or two in depth. LCDs are also considered much less fragile than their plasma counterparts. These are apparent advantages in favor of an LCD television, but do these differences really affect you, the viewer? A thinner television doesn't always have a superior picture. In fact, plasma displays are usually brighter and more vibrant. Also, how often do you carry your plasma television around? Does its weight and durability really affect your decision? In the average home, a television remains in the same spot for years, if not forever.

The factors that should affect your purchase relate more to the picture. Plasma displays have a greater viewing angle and don't lose as much contrast as you move away. A plasma can be viewed clearly from almost any location in a room, thanks to their 160 degree viewing angle. Also, as you look at larger model televisions (over 40 inches, for example) you'll see that plasma screens are cheaper and maintain a thin profile. LCDs are still being refined in their larger models. There are functional considerations to be made as well. Will you be using your plasma screen as a primary display for your personal computer? If so, you'd profit from an LCD panel that would display a detailed computer images more crisply, and with no risk of burn-in.

LCDs have many uses where they are a superior display choice. Different functions and locations may lead you to purchase an LCD. However, if you're just looking for a television, then plasma is your best bet. Plasma televisions have a list of advantages over LCDs when it comes to true picture quality, brightness, and color. LCDs have their niche uses, but a plasma is a superior choice in television.

Jakob Culver is founder of the website www.plasmatvarena.com providing information, articles and reviews about plasma tv's. To find more articles like this one visit the site http://www.plasmatvarena.com/

? Millennium Online Marteting Pty Ltd

This article may be reprinted for use in websites provided that the information box is kept intact. Email notice of intent to publish is appreciated but not required: millenniumonlinemarketing@hotmail.com

Shopping for a Plasma Television - 6 Top Things to Look For

To avoid going home with a plasma TV set that you'll want to dump in the trash after one week's worth of unsatisfactory viewing experience, make sure that your plasma TV has the 6 top things that have the power to make all TV viewers relax with a blissful smile.

Plasma Television Shopping - 6 Things to Look for

SIZE - If you're an ordinary person with ordinary TV-watching dreams, you'll surely want a plasma TV set that can dominate the whole room with its presence. You'd want a plasma TV set that makes your guests' eyes pop out at the first time they see it because it's impressively huge. No person can honestly say that he's truly content with a TV set that makes him squint just to see the number printed at the back of a NBA player's jersey. And this is plasma technology, after all. It will be sad if you'll waste all the viewing benefits offered by plasma technology with a reduced screen size!

BRAND - Getting any plasma TV is not enough. You need to think about the brand as well. There's a reason why plasma TV imitations are so cheap, and it's not just because they're made in China. It's because they're inferior in quality as well. Plasma TV imitations also have a shorter shelf life so you might not be saving money in the long-run. If you take a look at the TV market today, you'll notice that Panasonic presently enjoys the lead among all other electronic companies when it comes to making plasma TV sets. But of course you can buy plasma TV sets made by other well-known brands like Sony and Samsung.

ASPECT RATIO - Just because the plasma TV set you've your eye on is huge in size doesn't mean it can give you an equally huge display. This matter depends primarily on the aspect ratio of your plasma TV's screen. If you think this isn't important, think again. What if you're to watch a HDTV movie with subtitles? If the aspect ratio is small, the subtitles will be small as well, and if you can't read those tiny letters, how are you going to understand what the movie is all about?

PERSONAL MAILMAN - Nowadays, no self-respecting TV connoisseur would want a TV set that's only capable of being a TV. You'd want extra features from your plasma TV set as well, and one of those would be its ability to deliver messages at the right time and place. Forget about post-its or pinning notes to the refrigerator. Instead, you can key in your message in the TV screen and your message will be delivered at the time you've set.

SOMETHING WITH OOMPH - Aesthetics count very much in regard to plasma TV sets. Bulky is out, and trendy is in. Since plasma TV sets are manufactured in a number of shades and styles, you should opt for one that would go absolutely well with wherever it's going to be mounted.

SOMETHING SLIM - Size is indeed a factor, but you might not want anything beyond 19? if you'll also use your plasma TV set as a computer monitor. In this case, you should be after slimness rather than wideness. A slim plasma TV monitor would look great on your tabletop rather than any other bulky computer monitor.

Now that you know what the 6 top important things to look for are when shopping for a plasma TV, here are suggestions as to where you can find the ideal plasma TV besides retail outlets in malls and possibly enjoy discounts as well.

Auction Houses - Live or online, auction houses do sometimes auction off plasma TV sets and who knows if you'll get lucky when you go shopping? Of course, be sure that your item is in good condition before making any payment.

Secondhand Stores - If you're working with a very tight budget then consider purchasing your plasma TV from secondhand stores. Granted, you might take home that's obviously not brand new, but with a little creative decoration, nicks and scratches can surely be concealed from the public eye.

One good thing to remember is that prices for plasma TV, as well as other kinds of TV, are dropping and are expected to continue doing so as one new TV innovation after another is introduced to the market. So take your time shopping because costs are getting lower and lower each day!

For more information now go to: http://www.qualityplasmatelevision.com/index.html http://www.qualityplasmatelevision.com

How to Actually Get a Free Laptop or Plasma TV

I had tried several of these sites in the past. Every time I would see the message you are almost done just one more offer to go. I'd fill out an offer and then again I'd see this message. Usually after 30 to 45 minutes I'd just give up. I thought this was some sort of gimmick to get you to sign up for different things. After speaking with several of the site owners, the ones that have the pages with all the offers, I found out that whether I get all the way to the end or not the site owner still collects from the company that has the offer.

A couple of weeks ago I received an email from a friend that had a mention about learning how to actually get the rewards like the free laptop or Plasma TV. I was skeptical but I said why not, if it costs too much then I'll simply go on to something else. The site, the sales page, said all I need to do to get the manual they created was complete one offer that would only cost me maybe $2 so I said what the hey. I filled out an offer that cost me a dollar and then I was taken to their online course on how to actually make money from these sites and get the prize awards.

I spent that entire weekend going through their online course and every once in awhile I would go to a site they would mention and try what I learned, I was extremely impressed. This stuff was actually working just like they said it would. I learned that there are these trade boards out there where people buy and sell what are called 'Green' which are completed offers. Usually one of these offer sites will tell you that you need to complete 1 offer plus give them lets say 10 referrals. On these trade boards you can pay for referrals who then have to go to these boards using you referral link and complete an offer.

I thought that after I completed this course that I would then put together a video which I could then resell at maybe $47 but after giving it some more thought I thought it would be easier just to refer people to this site. I won't be making like $47 but how many people have to visit a sales page before somebody actually buys? I've heard of marketers who maybe out of 1000 people referred to their sales page that they may make like only 10 sales. A total of maybe $470 gross. I'd rather just refer you to the site and let you in on the same offer that I received.

I actually put this knowledge to use the next week and earned about $100. Not bad for work that only took up a couple of hours of my time. Now if somebody decides to do this then I recommend that they get this free software called greencheck which will let them know when one of the offers you are working on goes green. Some sites you may have to complete 3 offers to get one credit and one credit equals one green. Some sites credit instantly and some take several days but you must learn how to keep on following up on these offers because you only get paid when an offer goes green.

Also, this is not something where everybody in your household could do this because one of the rules that these offer sites have is that only one person per household can do an offer. Now you may think that you can have everybody in your household doing these if you keep track of the offers that each one does. This doesn't work either because you internet connection has one IP address even though each computer in the house has a different one. These sites, the ones with all the offers on them. If they see more than one person from the household having the same IP address as another they will then suspend your account permanently and usually this happens after you have completed several offers which in the end means you just spent money that won't be recovered because they then will take back your greens.

After you get good at this you can then pay others to do the greens for you and in the end you will get the free laptops, TV's, or XBox. Some of them will allow you to take cash instead.

Jeffrey has over 2 decades experience in the business world. When he writes he blends his unique wit and humour into every article which if you read his blog you can see all of his many works. http://www.nosugarcoating.info

TH-42PX70 Review - Panasonic Viera 42" 1080p Plasma TV

Having dominated the plasma technology market over the past few years, it's no wonder that every new generation of Panasonic plasma TVs are greeted with much anticipation. The latest one is no different: having been unveiled at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2007 in Las Vegas at the beginning of the year, roll-out of the 10th generation plasma began in Europe (soon to be followed suit in the US) in March 2007. I encounter the Panasonic TH-42PX70 quite often in my profession, and so will give a brief rundown of its capabilities.

Panasonic plasmas have an excellent reputation for unrivaled black level and shadow detail, and I'm happy to report that the TH-42PX70 is up there with the best in this department. Batman Begins and Unforgiven ? both suitably dark films ? would have absolutely murdered any lesser competitors, but on the Panasonic TH-42PX70 I could still see fine shadow detail that could have so easily been engulfed by nothingness.

Furthermore, there's not very much you need to do to get the picture looking right: if all TVs were produced in this manner, ISF calibrators will soon be out of job. To attain the 6500 Kelvin (daytime) color temperature in which films are shot and broadcast, simply go into your user menu, select the "Cinema" mode (assuming you haven't done so when you first set up your TH-42PX70) and then the "Warm" color temperature. By doing this you make sure that you're watching the film as per the director's vision.

Traditionally image retention are a big problem with plasmas; not so with TH-42PX70. I had detected a slight hint of retention after putting on static images (from my computer) for 10 minutes, but within 1 minutes of resuming moving images the retention washed away. I really think that as long as you take the proper precautions, image retention on plasmas is a thing of the past.

Nevertheless, the TH-42PX70 has its own set of weaknesses. For starters, it still suffers from problems of false contouring where there should be fine gradation. Part of this is source-based as the problem largely went away when watching high-definition, but if you're sensitive to this kind of thing it may annoy you.

The previous generation of Panasonic plasmas was haunted with what is known as "purple snake" or "purple ants", where purple bands or pixels with appear around green areas with small change of gradient. In the TH-42PX70 I couldn't really see it when sitting from 8 feet away, but if I move closer to the screen at say 3 feet I would notice it... IF I'm looking for it. Just something worth bearing in mind.

When reviewing plasmas, I cannot refrain from mentioning buzzing noise, which is typical trait of plasma TVs especially with high-contrast scenes. In fact, I could vividly remember a massive plasma TV shootout I attended where a pure white background was used to test how loud the plasmas buzzed. In TH-42PX70's case, the buzz is more like a high-pitched whine, which didn't particularly trouble me when the sound was on, but if you have ultra-sensitive ears, this is something to take into consideration.

To sum up my view as someone who sees and installs more than your fair share of flat panel television, the TH-42PX70 does most of the important things better than most TVs. Sure it's has its flaws, but this is such a wonderful set-and-forget plasma TV that if I were shopping for a new plasma TV, I'd take this in a heartbeat.

Robert Keene installs home theater by day and indulges himself in high-definition films by night. For more info on Panasonic TH-42PX70 plasma TV, check out his website at http://www.th42px70.co.uk

Plasma Technology for Your Television - A Few Reasons Why It's Good for You

Gone are the bulky monsters that gobbled up space and hunked down in our living rooms and bedrooms like contented sumo wrestlers. The old notions of video and home entertainment systems may just be a thing of the past. This is the dawn of the new television technology age and plasma may just be its greatest invention.

Plasma television is one of the most popular TVs using high-definition technology. In terms of monster size and eye-popping images, plasma television offers a lot not only in quality but also in price. Since buying one of these will probably take a chunk out of your wallet, you might want to understand the technology that makes plasma hot and credible.

How Plasma Works

The concept of plasma display has been around since the mid-60s but it was only in 1999 when the first commercial plasma models came out in the US market. Since then, televisions boasting of plasma technology have become the top favorite for home entertainment systems.

Plasma technology uses fluorescent light that contain gas made of electrons and ions. The fluorescent light is made up of three basic colors: red, blue and green. These colors are the basis for every other color you see on a plasma screen and they form a single pixel. Once the plasma television is turned on, the gas inside the fluorescent light burn up and thousands upon thousands of pixels form to produce the images.

Why plasma is better

Plasma televisions have a lot of fans who not only like what they see but also want the glamour equated with owning the newest technology. Other than that, there are plenty of reasons why plasma reigns supreme. Here are some:

Picture quality

It offers superb picture quality in terms of image contrast and picture brightness. So when you see black on your plasma television, it's black and not a dark grey. That means that images shot in high contrast don't disappoint and even movies with a dark noir feel to it don't look so bad. That means when you're watching Batman Returns, you'll get to see all the action without getting confused as to who is punching whom.

Size

In terms of the wow factor in size, plasma televisions are on top of the game. From the modest 37-inch model to the more than 60-inch stunner, plasma technology allows you to get the best-looking big-sized televisions without sacrificing picture quality. Remember the time when screen size equaled bad resolution? With plasma technology, those days are long gone.

Images shown through plasma televisions look great at any size and as long as you have the wall space, they won't take too much of your living room floor either. Plasma TVs are supermodel-thin and can even be mounted on your wall in place of a beloved picture frame. So now, you won't have any reason to keep your den or living room floor neat and orderly because you can't blame the clutter on the TV anymore.

ROI and an excuse to stay home

One of the main reasons why some folks are hesitant about buying a plasma television is the cost. For now, plasma technology can be had for a steep $2500 and that's not the biggest-sized television on display, either.

If you think that's too expensive, think about this: plasma TVs did not start out cheap. When they first came out for commercial use, they cost about ten grand. But since production cost has improved over the years (coupled with the enthusiastic response to plasma technology), consider yourself lucky that you can get a plasma television at the price they come in nowadays.

As for the nagging thought of an ROI, think of all the movies you've seen last year and the years before that. With movie theater tickets set at about $10 (let's just use the higher average), your $3000 plasma television will probably pay for itself in less than three years, granted you watch at least 10 movies a month. Popcorn, a soda and gas for the car are not even included in that equation.

The technology behind plasma televisions gives you one more great reason to watch videos at home because it will pay for its own cost in a short period of time. You not only get to watch movies within the comforts of your own abode, you also get to enjoy theater-quality images without leaving the house.

For more information now go to: http://www.qualityplasmatelevision.com/Plasma-Technology-Television.html http://www.qualityplasmatelevision.com/

Secrets to Buying a CRT, LCD or Plasma Television

There are so many different types of televisions on the market today how do you decide which one is right for you? Available today are LCD, plasma television, DLP, CRT, flat panel, rear projection, HDTV, wide screen and more. With so many to choose from it's important to understand the basics of each type before making an expensive purchase.

Each type of TV has positives and negatives. Before purchasing a possibly expensive piece of furniture for you home it would be wise to learn a little about each technology. This may prevent you from making a big mistake when you are ready to buy. Once you understand which type of television is right for you it's a lot easier to take the plunge.

If you are more than 10 years old you probably grew up watching television on a CRT type of TV. CRT stands for cathode ray tube. These televisions are still very popular due to a few advantages they still hold over the newer plasma televisions and other newer types.

If you've ever watched a plasma or LCD TV from the side you have probably noticed that the picture is darker from that angle. One of the great things about CRT televisions is that they are still bright even when viewed from the side. Sure, the LCD or plasma television has a great quality picture from the front, but if you plan on placing your TV in an area that will be viewed often from the side you should be testing out all of the different models in that regard. It would be very disappointing to see the great plasma picture quality at the dealer and then get it home and have a darker picture from your viewing point of view.

Another positive with regard to CRT displays is their price. They are more inexpensive than the more modern types of televisions while still producing a very clear and bright picture. They also show the color black truer than most newer models and have no danger of burn-in. On some of the newer models it's possible to have a bright picture burn into the screen and be faintly visible for the life of the TV.

With all of these positives why are the CRT displays diminishing in popularity? There are two main reasons. One, these television sets are usually bigger, bulkier and heavier. And two, if you want a large wide screen TV that is 42 inches, 50 inches, 60 inches or larger you just cannot find a CRT display that big. So if you have a big wide screen TV in mind you won't be able to go with the older CRT units.

The last deciding factor about CRT televisions concerns whether you should buy a flat screen or curved screen model. The flat screen versions can be viewed from the side better than the curved screens. The curved screens can distort the picture while the flat screens let you see the picture as it was intended to be seen. The difference may not be apparent when viewed alone, but put them side to side and you will certainly see the difference.

The next type of technology we will look at is the flat panel LCD displays. These come in HDTV (high definition television) or wide screen. If you want to see your DVD movies as you saw them in the movie theater you need to purchase a widescreen TV. LCD is a liquid crystal display and is not only used in televisions, but in computer monitors as well.

LCD displays have a flat screen and are relatively thin in width and lightweight. They have an exceptional picture viewing quality and as with the CRT displays will not produce burn-in. These TVs have high resolution that creates a superior picture.

The biggest problem with LCD flat screens is the fact that their viewing angles are lessened when compared with traditional CRT models. If you get too far off to the side the picture becomes extremely dark. They are also incapable of creating true blacks, another disadvantage when compared to older CRT models. Plus, the larger models can become rather expensive. However, if money is not your major concern and you plan on viewing the TV from directly in front you may decide that this is the best choice for you.

Plasma television sets, also known as plasma HDTV displays, have come way down in price over the last two years. Their prices used to exclude people from buying them, but their prices are now comparable to LCD models.

These TVs have become popular because not only can you get it in a very large screen size, perfect for your favorite movie or sporting event, but it has an excellent picture quality that is also viewable from wide angles. This is a plus over the LCD technology. This TV will give you the perfect "movie experience" at home in your own theater room.

Plasma television displays are great when it comes to picture quality and viewing angles, but their prices may still be slightly higher than other types. They also have a small potential for burn-in. But the big negative is their life span. They are basically not repairable when their bulb burns out. Depending on how much you watch TV you could end up with an expensive unit that will only last a few years. Once the bulb has burned out the TV is generally history. This is not the case with an LCD display where the bulb may cost in the neighborhood of $200, but it can be changed.

Rear projection models also have their positives and negatives. Rear projection CRT HDTV's are cheaper than the larger plasma and LCD displays, plus they have a flat screen and great picture. The negatives are their size and weight and smaller viewing angles. They are too heavy to hang on a wall and are much wider than the more narrow plasma and LCD units. Also, in a well lit room their picture can seem a little less bright than what is considered ideal.

There are other types of rear projection HDTV units too. The most popular are the LCD and DLP models. Both have flat screens with wide viewing angles, are thin and lightweight which means they can be wall mounted, will not produce burn-in and have terrific picture resolution and quality. Also, when the bulb burns out they can be replaced, unlike the plasma television models. However, they can both be a bit on the expensive side.

Now that you know the differences it's time to go down to your local electronics store and try them out. A little bit of viewing can go a long way in your determination of what's best and what's not. One more piece of advice: when looking at the varied assortment of models at you local store you'll notice that some have bright pictures and some do not. Do not base your opinion solely on that one thing. The store models will not have their brightness controls all set the same and it's possible that a dim picture on one of their televisions could easily be adjusted into a magnificent picture.

This article is brought to you by Best Plasma Television, an online source for quality plasma television sets. For more information please visit Best Plasma Television.