TFT monitors buyers guide

Introduction

The latest generation of TFT-screens (Thin Film Translator) is becoming a very good alternative for the conventional CRT screens. The problems with color depth, low response times and non-linear displaying that use to be the biggest disadvantage to TFT screens have been rectified. Modern TFT screens have shown a true contrast ratio of 250:1, color depth has improved and with response times of around 10 seconds the "ghosting" effect is no longer an issue.

The TFT monitors do have some very obvious advantages to a conventional CRT screen, like the size and the power usage, but there are less obvious points. One of these is the maximum brightness, a CRT will be able to show a maximum of around 110 candela per square meter, where as a TFT can show ore than twice that. This improves the legibility in brightly lit areas. Another advantage is the stability of the picture, where a CRT will use a refresh rate and the image is therefore never always completely static, a TFT does not have to be refreshed. There are quite a few differences between the different models of TFT screens out there though, this guide is an aid to choose the best monitor for your needs and budget.