New Technology TV

The cathode ray tube (CRT) – also known simply as a picture tube -- has provided the basis for TV as we know it for many decades. CRTs are still in use, of course, but with the advent of new kinds of video technology, CRT TVs have been overshadowed. Light, compact flat-screen models, including plasma and rear projections sets, have taken attention away from the bulky, traditional CRT set.

Yet this standard TV technology is still incredibly functional. Cathode ray tube televisions, while somewhat bulky in comparison to new sets, do offer benefits to the viewer. CRT sets are some of the cheapest TVs available today. Digital CRT models are available that are more expensive than standard models, but even these are far more affordable than projection sets and flat-screen sets. Overall, CRT sets also offer good image quality. They possess excellent contrast ratio, and the picture is clear, sharp and detailed. CRT sets are also sturdy and long-lasting. Additionally, they provide a great monitor display for playing video games.

With new-model sets, CRT technology has been improved upon in numerous ways, of course. CRT sets offer limited screen sizes, with 36 inches being the largest size available. Meanwhile, large screen sets are dominating the market, and their prices are decreasing. Additionally, CRT sets simply lack the style and sleek design of these new models.

The prevalent alternatives to CRT sets include rear projection models that use different kinds of technology. These sets include liquid crystal display (LCD), liquid crystal silicon (LCoS), and digital light processing (DLP) models. All of these sets have good and bad points, in addition to being more expensive than CRT sets. Projection sets work by casting an image onto a screen, for a viewing experience similar to that of a movie theater. These sets require external sources of light – typically a bulb. Replacement bulbs cost around $300 and should be replaced every three years or so.

Right now, prices for some rear projection sets are falling. A big-screen set that’s 40-50 inches can now be purchased for under $1000. Typically, though, LCD, DLP and LCoS sets go for at least $1500. Anything with a screen bigger than 50 inches will cost much more.

Getting back to old-fashioned CRT technology, the CRT rear projection set is the most affordable projection TV on the market, with models available for $700. CRTs are the biggest of the projection sets and require a great deal of space in the home. But they do offer a good picture and considerable reliability. In general, because CRT technology has been around for so long, it’s pretty much been perfected and offers consistency that’s hard to find in other types of sets.