A computer Monitors Guide

The two most common types of computer monitors are the CRT (cathode ray tube) and the LCD (liquid crystal display). CRT technology has been used in television screens since the 1940s. The first computer monitors were CRTs. LCD monitors are a relatively new technology and made their public debut with the advent of laptop computers.

At one time, a CRT computer monitor was the only choice for home computer users. Even with the popularity of LCD monitors, CRT computer monitors have traditionally offered more accurate color displays, making them the preferred choice of graphic designers and avid gamers. However, advancements in LCD video displays have allowed LCD computer monitors to challenge the CRT.

Laptop computers have always used LCD monitors. Liquid crystal display (LCD) flat panel computer monitors work by filtering light through the liquid crystals in a way that produces color on the screen. The first LCD monitors were lacking in color depth and functionality, but recent developments have pushed LCD computer monitors to the forefront. The contrast ratio in LCD computer monitors, which measures the differences in light intensity, has greatly improved display quality. The higher the contrast ratio, the better the color depiction. With much improved color depth and accuracy, LCDs are also lightweight and use much less power than CRTs. As prices have come down and display properties advanced, sales of LCDs monitors for the desktop have outpaced CRT computer monitors in recent years.

The CRT has advantages and disadvantages. A CRT still renders color more accurately than a LCD. A user may use different screen resolutions on a CRT and not lose any video quality. CRTs are viewable from different angles. The disadvantages include the fact that CRTs are prone to flicker and fade, especially if they have a low refresh rate. The refresh rate is the rate per second that colors and displays are redrawn. The traditional CRT computer monitor is large, bulky and consumes much more power than a LCD computer monitor. Many CRTs have a curved screen, rendering the display distorted at the edges. Because they are no longer as popular, CRT computer monitors are getting more difficult to find.

The CRT has some advantages over a LCD. While a LCD must use its native screen resolution (the maximum number of pixels that can be displayed without distortion), a user may change the resolution on a CRT and not lose any display quality. A CRT offers excellent viewing angles, a liquid crystal display does not. CRT monitors are generally less expensive than LCD. However, CRT monitors are no longer being manufactured or developed at the rate they were and are considered obsolete by many.

Today's computer monitors offer more features than before. Add-ons often include USB ports, DVI connections and TV In/Out options. Touch screen monitors are available for use in business settings.

Settings available on most LCD monitors allow the user to adjust and customize the contrast, brightness and color. LCD computer monitors are lightweight and offer easier portability than traditional monitors.