Plasma TV

Everybody is talking about plasma TV, but few know what the buzz is all about. What is plasma, and why is it such a big deal? Plasma is sometimes referred to as "the fourth state of matter." If you remember high school chemistry, the other three states are solid, liquid, and gas. Plasma is a gas containing free ions and electrons that make it capable of conducting electric currents. Much of the matter in the universe, including the stars, is in a plasma state.

A plasma display can illuminate tiny, colored fluorescent lights in order to form an image. Each pixel is made up of a red light, a green light and a blue light. When the plasma display varies the intensity of these lights, a full range of color is produced. Plasma televisions have higher resolution than most conventional TV sets. Since every pixel cell has its own transistor electrode, the plasma screens are free of scan lines. This translates into a smooth image across the entirety of the display. Major brands like Panasonic plasma TVs and Sony plasma TVs are becoming fixtures in homes of the average TV viewer, rather than just those who are rich and famous.

Do you like vivid color? Plasma screens can display 16.77 million colors. Along with great color, the completely flat screen of a plasma TV eliminates edge distortion. Since the pixels are displayed evenly across the screen, plasma TVs have a uniformity of brightness that cannot be found on a conventional television.

Once you have purchased a plasma TV, you'll want to ensure its longevity.
With this in mind, avoid leaving static images on the unit for more than 10 minutes. Use the widescreen format as frequently as possible to prevent differentiation between the side bands of the unit. You will extend the life of your plasma TV if you avoid excessive use of the brightness and contrast controls. Like all monitors, your plasma TV should be kept in a ventilated area. Plasma TV addicts often upgrade their TV signals to include HDTV programming, as well. Imagine your favorite sports team in action on a plasma Sony HDTV, and you'll understand the lure of these high-tech tubes.