Which is better: plasma or LCD TV? How to choose a plasma TV Which TV is better, plasma or LCD?

In the development of TV equipment, new technologies appear every year that make it possible to create a device with advanced functionality and as much as possible high-quality image. More recently, plasma TVs have been replaced by LCD TVs. So which is better - LCD or plasma?

To answer this difficult question, let's consider the operating principle of these TVs, as well as their main advantages and disadvantages. Let's compare the functionality of the devices and the cost. To objectively evaluate these technologies, let’s analyze user reviews.

Principle of operation

Studying how TV works allows you to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the technology. Ordinary users, due to lack of knowledge, are not able to determine which TV is better - plasma or liquid crystal. This material was created especially for them.

Now let's carefully study the specific features of both technologies. Based on this information, we will create a list of advantages and disadvantages. This is the only way to make an objective assessment of the equipment on the market.

Plasma panel

Plasma TV technology (based on the use of ionized gas) was one of the first to appear. When the first plasma TVs entered the market, they still lost out to competition from cathode ray tube technology. Why? The rationale is very simple. The new product was much more expensive than analogues with identical functionality.

A plasma panel is 2 glass plates, between which there is a matrix consisting of cells filled with ionized gas. Voltage is supplied to the cells through transparent electrodes. The gas is converted into plasma and begins to glow.

Ultraviolet radiation from the plasma provides illumination of the phosphor in three colors: red, green and blue. It is the listed shades in various proportions that are controlled by a computer. You also see them when you turn on the TV.

Which TV to choose - plasma or LCD? There are fewer and fewer plasma models every year. This technology is significantly outdated. Some companies still continue to produce plasmas, improving the image quality and performance parameters of the device as a whole. The screen diagonal increases; on a small display it is impossible to achieve maximum picture detail due to the low resolution.

Now let's analyze the advantages and disadvantages of plasma TVs. Let's start with the positive qualities:

• deep, bright and rich color palette;
• impressive contrast and perfect black depth;
• maximum viewing angle up to 180 degrees;
• long service life - up to 30 years;
• availability of 3D technology.

There are also disadvantages:

• increased energy consumption;
• the image fades when the screen is exposed to sunlight;
• heavy weight, which causes problems with mounting on the wall;
• Pixels burn out in a static image.

That's all you need to know about plasma TVs.

LCD TV

Plasmas appeared quite a long time ago. Their appearance marked the beginning new era in the TV technology industry. LCD technology appeared even earlier. It’s just that it wasn’t immediately used in the TV industry.

The very first LCD display was created back in the early 70s of the last century. Monochrome screens were installed by specialists on watches, calculators and various other devices. A little later, laptops with LCD displays appeared, but they were very primitive. Especially if we draw parallels with modern LCD TVs.

Liquid crystal technology in the production of TV equipment began to be used only in the 2000s. Initially, models with a small screen diagonal - from 14 to 32 inches - appeared on the market. They interested users with high-quality images and affordable prices. The popularity has increased significantly. The novelty has suddenly become a real bestseller. However, back then LCD TVs were significantly inferior to their analogues in terms of picture quality.

What is an LCD TV? This is an LCD display based on liquid crystals. They are placed between several layers of polymer and glass plates. The crystal layer forms a matrix with big amount pixels. The glow is provided by the backlight located behind the panel. Color is guaranteed by the RGB matrix.

It was the advent of liquid crystal TV that caused CRT TVs to leave the market. Some CRT models were no inferior in image quality, but consumers still preferred the new technology.

Advantages:

• small amount of electricity consumed;
• no static image;
• even a small screen can display images in Full HD;
• relatively low cost;
• compact dimensions and low weight.

Flaws:

• LED and plasma TVs have better contrast;
• limited viewing angle;
• unsatisfactory depth of black color;
• There is no option to change the resolution;
• not the best best time response.

The list of strengths and weaknesses may vary depending on the TV model, or more precisely, on its cost. Much depends on the manufacturer. Premium-class branded equipment has always had a wide viewing angle and excellent contrast. The cheapest devices have an even larger list of weaknesses. The service life of LCD TV is approximately 7-10 years.

Differences between LCD and plasma

Now let's analyze the main differences between these technologies. Liquid crystal devices have become increasingly popular. The growing interest from consumers is explained by the fact that users cannot allocate a separate room specifically for watching TV. Mass production made production cheaper.

Dimensions are the key difference between these devices. Liquid crystal technology makes it possible to create very compact and lightweight TVs. Plasmas are limited in size. For example, you won't find models with a screen diagonal larger than 65 inches.

LCD TVs also weigh much less. This is due to the use of plastic screens. Plasmas are equipped with glass displays. This specific feature It also helps reduce unnecessary expenses, such as delivery fees. The process of installing the device on the wall is greatly simplified.

When choosing a TV, pay attention to the amount of electricity consumed. Liquid crystal models consume much less electricity. Devices equipped with ECO backlighting will exhibit plasma-level brightness, but will use half the energy.

Which TV is better - LCD, plasma or LED? When answering this question, you need to take into account the service life of the device. LCDs can operate for about 10 years – 60 thousand hours. Initially, plasmas had a long service life, but after 20 thousand hours of continuous operation, the brightness of the picture was halved. Today this flaw has been leveled out by manufacturers. The devices will last approximately the same.

Picture quality

The key criterion for choosing a TV is image quality. What is the difference between plasma, LCD or LED? Which of these devices is capable of providing the most best quality Pictures? The answer is clear. LED models demonstrate the best quality, since this is the most modern technology. Second place - plasma. The superiority of plasma TV over LCD is quite obvious. Even when compared with premium-class LCD models.

Plasma devices have excellent image contrast and maximum depth of dark shades. Therefore, viewing dark scenes will be as realistic, rich and comfortable as possible. This difference is explained by the design features of liquid crystal models. There is a backlight on the display; it cannot be turned off completely. Therefore, it will not be possible to achieve a truly black color either.

Image quality largely depends on the backlight. Plasmas are better able to cope with dynamic scenes. There is no blur effect. This is especially noticeable when watching action movies or playing games on a console. Plasmas have an impressive viewing angle. This means that if you move a little away from the edge of the device, the image will still be as clear as possible. The picture does not change depending on where you watch TV.

Plasma models have a bright and vibrant color palette. One should not rule out the absence of light leakage, which LCDs are prone to. Plasmas are capable of reproducing many more different shades, which is so important for broadcasting a lively and rich image. The latest models of LCD TVs are as close as possible in picture quality to plasmas. However, the difference is still noticeable. Other factors also influence the situation. For example, processor power, lighting.

Functionality directly depends on the model. The flagships have approximately the same set of options. In this parameter, LED, LCD and plasma TVs are approximately equivalent. The peculiarity is that liquid crystal models will still be cheaper, even if they have the same functionality as LED and plasma TVs.

What to choose

Plasma TVs are significantly inferior to their analogues in terms of brightness. They are suitable for viewing in the darkest possible room. If you want to create a home theater in a separate room, and also want to get maximum image detail, then feel free to buy plasma.

If you are faced with the choice of LED, plasma or LCD for installation in the living room or bedroom, then give preference to the first option. The second choice is LCD. All this is explained by the peculiarities of the impact of external lighting on image quality. The screens of liquid crystal models fade very much when exposed to sunlight. But this problem does not exist expensive models, the screens of which are supplemented with a special coating.

Another disadvantage of plasmas is the appearance of a static image. This situation occurs when the TV channel logo remains on the display after switching to another channel. The effect in question is extremely rare in modern models.

Now you know which TV is better to choose. The final choice will depend on your individual preferences.

Note.

The modern TV market is very diverse and choosing the right model using the “like it or not like it” method is simply impossible. Many televisions are made using different technologies, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, today we will try to understand the basic parameters of the device so that you can determine for yourself which TV is better - plasma or LCD or LED, exactly for your needs.

What is what?

The principle of operation of the most common televisions (CRTs) is known to every person who has not skipped physics classes. This technique works as follows:

1. Inside the cathode ray tube, electrons knock photons out of the phosphor.
2. As a result of this action, each point on the screen acquires its own color.
3. Multi-colored dots make up an image, which is drawn line by line.

Important! The entire process is carried out at a speed of 25 frames per second.

Of course, the operation of conventional tube TVs caused certain problems for the consumer, namely:

• The image flickers, and this negatively affects vision.
• Electromagnetic radiation also does not add health.
• The large dimensions of the device, due to the size of the tube, do not add comfort, especially in a small apartment.

Important! Conventional tube TVs are also inferior to modern analogues in terms of technical specifications such as: contrast, image brightness, viewing angle. Therefore, few people welcome such devices; the question most often arises:Which TV is better - plasma or LCD or LED?

Modern television devices are mainly divided into two types:

1. Plasma.
2. Liquid crystal. Which, in turn, differ in the type of backlight and are divided into:
   • LCD CCFL.

Let's look at the advantages and disadvantages of television technologies to figure out which TV is better - LCD or plasma. It should be noted that all TV market leaders are releasing devices with these new technologies. In our separate review you will find the TOP best TV brands.

Plasma TVs

The technology of plasma devices is based on a matrix that is filled with gas (neon or xenon). Between two glasses placed next to each other, a small space is filled with gas, and an electrical grid of wires runs inside.

Important! The electrodes, receiving voltage, ionize the gas and turn it into plasma, causing the fluorescent elements to glow. Thousands of such elements of different colors reproduce the image.

The advantages of a plasma panel are obvious:

• The image does not flicker. Frames change smoothly without creating color waves.
• High contrast and color depth.
• High-quality color saturation.
• Natural transmission of movements.
• Wide viewing angle (160-170 degrees).
• The resolution of the plasma device is identical to the resolution of the input channel.
• Spectacular slim body.
• Modern design.
• Larger selection of models with diagonals up to 80”.
• No electric or magnetic fields. This is important: firstly, there is no threat to health, and secondly, much less dust settles on the screen.
• All modern models are equipped with computer connectors. If desired, the user can use the TV as an additional display for a computer or laptop.

Long service life (about 20 years).

Disadvantages of the plasma model

To decide which TV is better - plasma or LCD or LED, it is not a bad idea to familiarize yourself with the disadvantages of such, at first glance, ideal TV models:

• The panel is prone to fading. Of course, you need to try hard for this, since the panel is designed for 30-40 thousand hours of use, which is 9 years, 8 hours a day.
• Pixelation is visible due to high temperatures.
• High power consumption. For example, a 42” model can use up to 350 W.
• Considerable weight. Some models of plasma TVs weigh up to 90 kg, and to mount them on the wall you will need a powerful bracket.

Important! To understandFor the price, you need to know the following:

1. if you choose a large display size, then plasma models will be cheaper, since making a large liquid crystal matrix is ​​much more difficult than plasma;
2. if you choose relatively small devices, then LCD TVs are cheaper.

LCD TV: LED or LCD?

The operating principle of an LCD TV is as follows:

1. Between the two panels there is a layer of liquid crystals.
2. The crystalline conductive liquid changes when exposed to electric current.
3. When the electric field is applied, the liquid crystal transmits a certain part of the light flux through itself: at one voltage, the pixel glows red, at another, white, and at a third, yellow.

Important! The crystalline conductive liquid must be illuminated so that the viewer can see the image.

Namely, according to the illumination method, this type of device is divided into:

• LCD CCFL - liquid crystal display, backlit by a cold cathode fluorescent lamp.
• LED - diode backlight.

Important! You need to know the designation of TVs based on the device principle in order to understandWhich TV is better - plasma or LCD or LED:

1. LCD and LCD are synonyms, that is, Russian and English abbreviations, respectively.
2. But LED is practically the same LCD, but with a different type of backlight.

What is the difference between the two types of LCD TVs?

1. LED TV, thanks to the backlight design, has better image quality. In LCD TVs, one lamp illuminates the entire screen, while in LED TVs there are a large number of LEDs, which makes it possible to create local dimming in one area of ​​the display and simultaneously increase the brightness in another.
2. LED devices significantly reduce energy consumption. This type of lighting allows you to save up to 40% of electricity.
3. LED TVs do not use mercury. This advantage allows them to be safely disposed of.
4. LED TVs use diodes of different colors, which improves color reproduction.

LCD TVs eliminate the loss of image details and this is why they benefit from budget models LEDs, which, due to the complex diode control system, may display incorrect colors.

Advantages of LCD TVs

Let's note the main advantages of LCD TVs so that you can understand which TVs are better - LCD or plasma or LED:

• Correct image geometry thanks to the flat surface of the LCD panel.
• Clear picture reproduction.
• Economical.
• Low noise level.
• Relatively low cost.

Important! Long term service is one of the undeniable advantages of this type of equipment. LCD TVs will last twice as long as plasma TVs, as they have a lifespan of 75,000 hours versus 30,000 hours.

Disadvantages of residential complexes:

• Smaller viewing angle.
• The contrast is lower than that of plasma. Black color is not saturated enough.
• There is a danger of pixel burn-in.
• LCD TVs are significantly smaller in size than LED or plasma models.

Advantages of LED

Models based on LED technology in their characteristics are something between LCD and plasma:

1. The picture quality is much higher than that of LCD TVs.
2. They consume less electricity than plasma models.

Important! However, the price of modern models of LED devices is very high and not everyone can afford it.

Let's note the positive aspects of LED:

• High image contrast.
• High quality color rendering.
• Wide viewing angle (average 160 degrees).
• Economical.
• Environmental friendliness.
• The screen is very light, which is convenient for wall mounting.
• Compactness. The average thickness of a TV is 3 cm.
• Some models connect directly to the Internet and can replace a PC.

Important! The only reason why LED TVs have not replaced plasma and LCD is the high price. The disadvantages of the device include the fact that few of them have models with a diagonal of less than 40”. Therefore, if you want to buy a small TV, you will have to choose from plasma or LCD models.

Which is better: LCD or plasma TV?

The advantages of a plasma panel are quite obvious: the image does not flicker, nothing in the design threatens the health of TV viewers, there is more brightness and contrast, and the viewing angle is 160 degrees. The disadvantages include high electricity consumption.

If you choose equipment based on performance characteristics, then analyze all the advantages and disadvantages of the two types of devices.

Advantages of Plasma in comparison with LCD:

• High contrast and color depth.
• Excellent color saturation.
• Large screen surface.
• More natural transmission of movements.

Advantages of the residential complex:

• The screen does not burn out.
• Wider viewing angle.
• The operating resource is at least twice as large as that of Plasma. When the resource expires, you can only change the light source (lamp), and not the entire screen.
• Low power consumption.

Important! The disadvantages of LCD TVs compared to Plasma include:

1. Color contrast suppresses halftones.
2. The natural transfer of movements is complicated by the problem of the “ghost frame” trail.

Which TVs are better LCD or plasma or LED?

Having assessed all the advantages and disadvantages of each type of TV, we can draw the following conclusion to decide which TV is better - plasma or LCD or LED.

Image quality:

1st place - LED.

2nd place - Plasma.

3rd place - residential complex.

Luminous flux (brightness):

1st place - LED.

2nd place - residential complex.

3rd place - Plasma.

Important! Today, LED LCDs are the brightest. Some models are capable of over 100 foot-lamberts, and in a movie theater, if you're lucky, you might get 5 foot-lamberts.

Black Level:

1st place - Plasma.

2nd place - LED.

3rd place - residential complex.

Contrast:

1st place - Plasma.

2nd place - LED.

3rd place - residential complex.

Energy consumption:

1st place - LED.

2nd place - residential complex.

3rd place - Plasma.

Important! In most cases, designers allocate a separate wall for the TV, placing emphasis on it. We have prepared separate posts that will help you tastefully decorate the interior of the room:

Life time:

1st place - residential complex.

2nd place - Plasma.

3rd place - LED.

Price:

The cheapest of all is the residential complex.

2nd place - Plasma.

3rd place - LED.

It is practically impossible to determine the winner or outsider by calculating points from the lists above, since these indicators are not equivalent. For one person, the brightness level is important, while for another, the black level is most important.

Important! Maybe it is very important for someone that the TV lasts for many decades, but the picture quality is not so important, then the choice is obvious - LCD. And if you are a film buff, an esthete and have enough money, then buy an LED with a 3D image.

Video material

We hope that the information provided will help you choose a TV that is suitable for you personally and your family, and will delight you in your free time by watching your favorite films and programs. Good luck and quality video!

On the front side of the screen and with address electrodes running along its back side. The gas discharge produces ultraviolet radiation, which in turn initiates the visible glow of the phosphor. In color plasma panels, each pixel of the screen consists of three identical microscopic cavities containing an inert gas (xenon) and having two electrodes, front and back. Once a strong voltage is applied to the electrodes, the plasma will begin to move. At the same time, it emits ultraviolet light, which hits the phosphors in the lower part of each cavity. Phosphors emit one of the primary colors: red, green or blue. The colored light then passes through the glass and enters the viewer's eye. Thus, in plasma technology, pixels work like fluorescent tubes, but creating panels from them is quite problematic. The first difficulty is the pixel size. A plasma panel's sub-pixel has a volume of 200 µm x 200 µm x 100 µm, and several million pixels need to be stacked on the panel, one to one. Secondly, the front electrode should be as transparent as possible. Indium tin oxide is used for this purpose because it is conductive and transparent. Unfortunately, plasma panels can be so large and the oxide layer so thin that when large currents flow across the resistance of the conductors there will be a voltage drop that will greatly reduce and distort the signals. Therefore, it is necessary to add intermediate connecting conductors made of chromium - it conducts current much better, but, unfortunately, is opaque.

Finally, you need to choose the right phosphors. They depend on the required color:

• Green: Zn 2 SiO 4:Mn 2+ / BaAl 12 O 19:Mn 2+
• Red: Y 2 O 3:Eu 3+ / Y0.65Gd 0.35 BO 3:Eu 3
• Blue: BaMgAl 10 O 17:Eu 2+

These three phosphors produce light with wavelengths between 510 and 525 nm for green, 610 nm for red and 450 nm for blue. The last problem remains the addressing of pixels, since, as we have already seen, in order to obtain the required shade, you need to change the color intensity independently for each of the three sub-pixels. On a 1280x768 pixel plasma panel there are approximately three million sub-pixels, resulting in six million electrodes. As you can imagine, laying out six million tracks to control the sub-pixels independently is not possible, so the tracks must be multiplexed. The front tracks are usually lined up in solid lines, and the back tracks in columns. The electronics built into the plasma panel, using a matrix of tracks, selects the pixel that needs to be lit on the panel. The operation occurs very quickly, so the user does not notice anything - similar to beam scanning on CRT monitors.

A little history.

The first plasma display prototype appeared in 1964. It was designed by University of Illinois scientists Bitzer and Slottow as an alternative to the CRT screen for computer system Plato. This display was monochrome and did not require additional memory or complex electronic circuits and was highly reliable. Its purpose was mainly to display letters and numbers. However, it never had time to be realized as a computer monitor, since thanks to semiconductor memory, which appeared in the late 70s, CRT monitors turned out to be cheaper to produce. But plasma panels, due to their shallow body depth and large screen, have become widespread as information boards at airports, train stations and stock exchanges. IBM was heavily involved in information panels, and in 1987, Bitzer's former student, Dr. Larry Weber, founded the company Plasmaco, which began producing monochrome plasma displays. The first 21" color plasma display was introduced by Fujitsu in 1992. It was developed jointly with the design bureau of the University of Illinois and NHK. And in 1996, Fujitsu bought the Plasmaco company with all its technologies and plant, and launched the first commercially successful plasma panel on the market – Plasmavision with a 42" diagonal 852 x 480 resolution screen with progressive scan. The sale of licenses to other manufacturers began, the first of which was Pioneer. Subsequently, actively developing plasma technology, Pioneer, perhaps more than anyone else, succeeded in the plasma field, creating a number of excellent plasma models.

With all the stunning commercial success of plasma panels, the image quality at first was, to put it mildly, depressing. They cost incredible amounts of money, but quickly won an audience due to the fact that they differed favorably from CRT monsters with a flat body, which made it possible to hang the TV on the wall, and screen sizes: 42 inches diagonally versus 32 (maximum for CRT TVs). What was the main defect of the first plasma monitors? The fact is that, despite all the colorfulness of the picture, they were completely unable to cope with smooth color and brightness transitions: the latter disintegrated into steps with torn edges, which looked doubly terrible in a moving image. One could only guess why this effect arose, about which, as if by agreement, not a word was written by the media, which praised the new flat displays. However, after five years, when several generations of plasma had changed, steps began to appear less and less often, and in other indicators the image quality began to increase rapidly. In addition, in addition to 42-inch panels, 50" and 61" panels appeared. The resolution gradually increased, and somewhere during the transition to 1024 x 720, plasma displays were, as they say, in their prime. More recently, plasma has successfully crossed a new threshold of quality, entering the privileged circle of Full HD devices. Currently, the most popular screen sizes are 42 and 50 inches diagonally. In addition to the standard 61", a size of 65" has appeared, as well as a record 103". However, the real record is only to come: Matsushita (Panasonic) recently announced a 150" panel! But this, like the 103" models (by the way, the famous American company Runco produces plasma based on Panasonic panels of the same size), is an unbearable thing, both in the literal and even more literal sense (weight, price).

Plasma panel technologies.

Just something complicated.

Weight was mentioned for a reason: plasma panels weigh a lot, especially large models. This is due to the fact that the plasma panel is mainly made of glass, apart from the metal chassis and plastic case. Glass is necessary and indispensable here: it stops harmful ultraviolet radiation. For the same reason, no one produces fluorescent lamps made of plastic, only glass.

The entire design of a plasma screen is two sheets of glass, between which there is a cellular structure of pixels consisting of triads of subpixels - red, green and blue. The cells are filled with inert, so-called. “noble” gases - a mixture of neon, xenon, argon. Passing through gas electricity makes it glow. Essentially, a plasma panel is a matrix of tiny fluorescent lamps controlled by the panel's built-in computer. Each pixel cell is a kind of capacitor with electrodes. An electrical discharge ionizes gases, turning them into plasma - that is, an electrically neutral, highly ionized substance consisting of electrons, ions and neutral particles. In fact, each pixel is divided into three subpixels containing red (R), green (G) or blue (B) phosphor: Green: Zn2SiO4:Mn2+ / BaAl12O19:Mn2+ Red: Y2O3:Eu3+ / Y0.65Gd0.35BO3:Eu3 Blue : BaMgAl10O17:Eu2+ These three phosphors produce light with wavelengths between 510 and 525 nm for green, 610 nm for red and 450 nm for blue. In fact, the vertical rows R, G and B are simply divided into individual cells horizontal constrictions, which makes the screen structure very similar to a mask kinescope regular TV. The similarity with the latter is that it uses the same colored phosphorus that coats the subpixel cells from the inside. Only the phosphorus phosphor is ignited not by an electron beam, as in a kinescope, but by ultraviolet radiation. To create a variety of color shades, the light intensity of each subpixel is controlled independently. In CRT TVs this is done by changing the intensity of the electron flow, in 'plasma' - using 8-bit pulse code modulation. The total number of color combinations in this case reaches 16,777,216 shades.

How light is produced. The basis of each plasma panel is plasma itself, i.e. a gas consisting of ions (electrically charged atoms) and electrons (negatively charged particles). Under normal conditions, the gas consists of electrically neutral, i.e., particles without a charge.

If you introduce a large number of free electrons into a gas by passing an electric current through it, the situation changes radically. Free electrons collide with atoms, “knocking out” more and more electrons. Without an electron, the balance changes, the atom acquires a positive charge and turns into an ion.

When an electric current passes through the resulting plasma, the negatively and positively charged particles move towards each other.

Amid all this chaos, particles are constantly colliding. The collisions 'excite' the gas atoms in the plasma, causing them to release energy in the form of photons in the ultraviolet spectrum.

When photons hit the phosphor, the particles of the latter become excited and emit their own photons, but they will already be visible and take the form of light rays.

Between the glass walls are hundreds of thousands of cells coated with a phosphor that glows in red, green and blue. Beneath the visible glass surface - all along the screen - are long, transparent display electrodes, insulated on top with a sheet of dielectric and below with a layer of magnesium oxide (MgO).

For the process to be stable and controllable, it is necessary to provide a sufficient number of free electrons in the gas column plus a sufficiently high voltage (about 200 V), which will force the ion and electron flows to move towards each other.

And for ionization to occur instantly, in addition to control pulses, there is a residual charge on the electrodes. Control signals are supplied to the electrodes via horizontal and vertical conductors, forming an address grid. Moreover, the vertical (display) conductors are conductive paths on the inner surface protective glass from the front. They are transparent (a layer of tin oxide mixed with indium). Horizontal (address) metal conductors are located on the back side of the cells.

Current flows from the display electrodes (cathodes) to the anode plates, which are rotated at 90 degrees relative to the display electrodes. The protective layer serves to prevent direct contact with the anode.

Under the display electrodes are the already mentioned RGB pixel cells, made in the form of tiny boxes, coated on the inside with a colored phosphor (each “color” box - red, green or blue - is called a subpixel). Below the cells is a structure of address electrodes positioned at 90 degrees to the display electrodes and passing through the corresponding color subpixels. Next is a protective level for the address electrodes, covered by the rear glass.

Before the plasma display is sealed, a mixture of two inert gases - xenon and neon - is injected into the space between the cells under low pressure. To ionize a specific cell, a voltage difference is created between the display and address electrodes located opposite each other above and below the cell.

A little reality.

In fact, the structure of real plasma screens is much more complex, and the physics of the process is not at all so simple. In addition to the matrix grid described above, there is another type - co-parallel, which provides an additional horizontal conductor. In addition, the thinnest metal tracks are duplicated to equalize the potential of the latter along the entire length, which is quite significant (1 m or more). The surface of the electrodes is covered with a layer of magnesium oxide, which performs an insulating function and at the same time provides secondary emission when bombarded with positive gas ions. There are also Various types geometry of pixel rows: simple and “waffle” (cells are separated by double vertical walls and horizontal bridges). Transparent electrodes can be made in the form of a double T or a meander, when they seem to be intertwined with the address electrodes, although they are in different planes. There are many other technological tricks aimed at increasing the efficiency of plasma screens, which was initially quite low. For the same purpose, manufacturers vary the gas composition of the cells, in particular, they increase the percentage of xenon from 2 to 10%. By the way, the gas mixture in the ionized state glows slightly on its own, therefore, in order to eliminate contamination of the spectrum of the phosphors by this glow, miniature light filters are installed in each cell.

Signal control.

The last problem remains the addressing of pixels, since, as we have already seen, in order to obtain the required shade, you need to change the color intensity independently for each of the three subpixels. On a 1280x768 pixel plasma panel there are approximately three million subpixels, resulting in six million electrodes. As you can imagine, laying out six million tracks to control the subpixels independently is not possible, so the tracks must be multiplexed. The front tracks are usually lined up in solid lines, and the back tracks in columns. The electronics built into the plasma panel, using a matrix of tracks, selects the pixel that needs to be lit on the panel. The operation occurs very quickly, so the user does not notice anything - similar to beam scanning on CRT monitors. Pixels are controlled using three types of pulses: starting, supporting and damping. The frequency is about 100 kHz, although there are ideas for additional modulation of control pulses with radio frequencies (40 MHz), which will ensure a more uniform discharge density in the gas column.

In essence, pixel glow control is discrete in nature. pulse width modulation: The pixels light up exactly as long as the supporting pulse lasts. Its duration with 8-bit encoding can take 128 discrete values, respectively, the same number of gradations of brightness is obtained. Could this be the reason for the ragged gradients breaking up into steps? Plasma of later generations gradually increased its resolution: 10, 12, 14 bits. The latest Runco Full HD models use 16-bit signal processing (probably encoding as well). One way or another, the steps have disappeared and, hopefully, will not appear again.

In addition to the panel itself.

Not only the panel itself was gradually improved, but also signal processing algorithms: scaling, progressive conversion, motion compensation, noise suppression, color synthesis optimization, etc. Each plasma manufacturer has its own set of technologies, partially duplicating others under other names, but partially their own. Thus, almost everyone used Faroudja's DCDi scaling and adaptive progressive conversion algorithms, while some ordered original developments (for example, Vivix from Runco, Advanced Video Movement from Fujitsu, Dynamic HD Converter from Pioneer, etc.). In order to increase contrast, adjustments were made to the structure of control pulses and voltages. To increase brightness, additional jumpers were introduced into the shape of the cells to increase the surface covered with phosphor and reduce the illumination of neighboring pixels (Pioneer). The role of “intelligent” processing algorithms gradually grew: frame-by-frame optimization of brightness, a dynamic contrast system, and advanced color synthesis technologies were introduced. Adjustments to the original signal were made not only based on the characteristics of the signal itself (how dark or light the current scene was or how fast objects were moving), but also on the level of ambient light, which was monitored using a built-in photosensor. With the help of advanced processing algorithms, fantastic success has been achieved. Thus, Fujitsu, through an interpolation algorithm and corresponding modifications to the modulation process, has achieved an increase in the number of color gradations in dark fragments to 1019, which far exceeds the screen’s own capabilities with the traditional approach and corresponds to the sensitivity of the human visual system (Low Brightness Multi Gradation Processing technology). The same company developed a method of separate modulation of even and odd horizontal control electrodes (ALIS), which was then used in models from Hitachi, Loewe, etc. The method gave increased clarity and reduced jaggedness of inclined contours even without additional processing, in connection with which an unusual resolution of 1024 × 1024 appeared in the specifications of the plasma models that used it. This resolution, of course, was virtual, but the effect turned out to be very impressive.

Advantages and disadvantages.

Plasma is a display that, like a CRT TV, does not use light valves, but emits already modulated light directly by phosphorus triads. This, to a certain extent, makes plasma similar to cathode ray tubes, which are so familiar and have proven their worth over several decades.

Plasma has a noticeably wider coverage of the color space, which is also explained by the specifics of color synthesis, which is formed by “active” phosphorus elements, and not by passing the light flux of the lamp through light filters and light valves.

In addition, the plasma resource is about 60,000 hours.

So, plasma TVs are:

Large screen size + compactness + no flickering element; - High definition image; - Flat screen with no geometric distortions; - Viewing angle 160 degrees in all directions; - The mechanism is not affected by magnetic fields; - High resolution and brightness of the image; - Availability computer inputs; - 16:9 frame format and progressive scan mode.

Depending on the rhythm of the pulsating current that is passed through the cells, the intensity of the glow of each subpixel, which was controlled independently, will be different. By increasing or decreasing the intensity of the glow, you can create a variety of color shades. Thanks to this principle of operation of the plasma panel, it is possible to obtain high quality images without color and geometric distortions. The weak point is the relatively low contrast. This is due to the fact that the cells must be constantly supplied with low voltage current. Otherwise, the response time of the pixels (their lighting and fading) will be increased, which is unacceptable.

Now about the disadvantages.

The front electrode should be as transparent as possible. Indium tin oxide is used for this purpose because it is conductive and transparent. Unfortunately, plasma panels can be so large and the oxide layer so thin that when large currents flow across the resistance of the conductors there will be a voltage drop that will greatly reduce and distort the signals. Therefore, it is necessary to add intermediate connecting conductors made of chromium - it conducts current much better, but, unfortunately, is opaque. Plasma is afraid of not very delicate transportation. Electricity consumption is quite significant, although in recent generations it has been possible to significantly reduce it, at the same time eliminating noisy cooling fans.

Every year, plasma panels are becoming more and more popular among buyers, which has largely contributed to their reduction in price. According to experts, in the very near future they will completely replace both obsolete CRT televisions and LCD models.

Plasma TV is a solution for everyone!

Some ordinary people believe that there is no difference between plasma and LCD, and they differ only in screen diagonal. In fact, this is far from the case. Plasma models are produced using a completely different technology that has nothing in common with LCD screens. It is based on the use of a unique plasma matrix that produces high-definition images.

One of the main advantages of plasma is its versatility. It will satisfy not only owners, but also gamers. “Plasma” is always very popular with children who simply adore cartoons on big screen. Accordingly, such a TV is aimed at a fairly wide consumer audience, and not just at fans of spectacular cinema

To choose correctly plasma TV, pay attention to the screen diagonal

Choosing a plasma TV is not a difficult task. However, when purchasing it, you need to take into account several important nuances. And first of all, the size of the TV screen. It is worth noting that plasma models with a small diagonal simply do not exist. This is due to the fact that the production of such TVs is not profitable. To choose the right plasma TV, remember that the minimum screen size is 32 inches. The maximum dimensions of modern panels can reach up to 72 inches or even more.

Such an important parameter as the screen format also depends on the diagonal size of a plasma TV. Models with a 16:9 format are optimal for home viewing, which allows you to play video of excellent quality. Therefore, when buying “plasma”, look for a TV with this format.

If you want to choose the right plasma TV, ask about its resolution

Another key parameter of a plasma TV is its resolution. Not only the clarity of the “picture”, but also the brightness of the colors depends on it. Currently, HD resolution with 1080i or 1080p is considered almost ideal.

To choose the right plasma TV, pay attention to the number of input ports on its body. A modern “plasma” must have at least one HDMI port with support for the HDCP protocol. It is advisable that the TV provides the ability to connect to a computer - this will require VGA or DVI inputs. It goes without saying that any plasma TV should also have ports for a simple DVD player.

If you want to buy a modern TV model, then you need to choose the model especially carefully, since today there are many types. Mostly, buyers are interested in which TV is better: LCD or plasma? Before making a choice, you should not only compare all the advantages and disadvantages of these types of TV, but also find out how LCD differs from plasma. This is exactly what we will talk about today.

Once cathode ray tubes became a thing of the past, and TVs themselves became thinner and lighter, each manufacturing and display technology began to try to prove that it was the best. This competition, in turn, led to higher quality televisions and an attempt to lower prices. However, it is worth saying that the latter does not always work out, since the more modern the device, the more different functions, interfaces, etc. it has, and this automatically increases its cost, whatever one may say.

Plasma TV

Today there are not many companies involved in the production of plasma TVs. Fujitsu from Japan was the first to use this technology. Modern models of monitors, panels and displays are produced based on their technology. To date this technology is in great demand among buyers.

Before purchasing equipment, you should understand the difference between a plasma TV and a plasma panel. The plasma panel is a monitor to which you can connect DVD player or a flash drive for watching videos. At the same time, such equipment is not provided with a TV tuner, so if you want to buy a full-fledged TV, it is better to choose a model that does have it.

When buying a plasma TV, choose models from well-known companies that provide a one-year warranty on their equipment. The greater the guarantee, the better device. It is also important to consider whether there is service center of this manufacturer in your city.

LCD TV

LCD displays appeared 20 years ago and quickly became popular among users. Today there are many models with a large diagonal, low weight and screen thickness. These parameters of the TV allow you, if desired, to install it using a bracket on the wall, on a special hanging shelf, or to build it into furniture and walls.

Such TVs are cheaper than plasma TVs with the same dimensions. In addition, such displays often have noticeably better color rendering and brightness than plasma models. This is due to the fact that such TVs have fairly good resolution.

Technological features of LCD TVs

Such a display consists of two plates and liquid crystals placed between them. Transparent polished plates have the same transparent electrodes through which voltage is transmitted to the matrix cells.

Liquid crystals between such plates are arranged in a special way. A beam of light passes through a polarizer installed near the plates, which turns at a right angle. This design is complemented by backlighting and a light filter with RGB colors.

To increase the speed of operation in these devices, special thin-film transistors, better known as TFT, are produced. Thanks to them, each cell is controlled separately. Because of this, the response speed can reach 8 milliseconds.

Technological features of plasma

Plasma also consists of the same plates with electrodes as LCD monitors. The difference is that instead of liquid crystals, the space between them is filled with inert gases such as argon, neon, xenon or their compounds. Each cell is colored with a specific phosphor, which determines the future color of the pixel. One cell is separated from another by a partition that does not allow ultraviolet radiation or light from the other cell to pass through. This ensures the maximum level of contrast is achieved, regardless of the intensity of external lighting.

When voltage is applied to a certain cell, it begins to glow with the color in which its phosphor is painted. The difference between such TVs and LCDs is that each of the cells itself emits light, so the backlight of such a display is not required.

Comparative characteristics of plasma and liquid crystal panels

Characteristic	Winner	Details
Screen size		Not so long ago, large-diagonal LCD TVs practically did not exist, and plasma TVs were the undisputed winner, so the question of choosing plasma or LCD did not arise. But time is running and today LCD models have almost caught up with plasma. Therefore, the difference according to this criterion has disappeared and it is very difficult to determine the winner.
Contrast		This happens due to the fact that plasma TVs themselves emit light, which makes the image better and more saturated.
Glare in bright light		The brightness of the lamp backlight allows you to see the image on the screen even in bright lighting or direct sunlight. Plasma panels will produce glare.
Black depth		The reason for the loss of an LCD TV in this parameter is the same. Due to the additional illumination, the black is less deep than that of plasma, where its depth is achieved due to the fact that there is simply no electricity flowing to a given cell.
Fast response		Electricity is transmitted almost instantly through inert gas, so there are no problems. But with older models of LCD displays, shadows could appear when the picture was moving quickly. But today, thanks to TFT technology, the response speed in such TVs has decreased to 8 milliseconds. Therefore, if you choose new model TV, you won’t notice any artifacts.
Viewing angle		Plasma TVs started with a viewing angle of 160 degrees, but an older LCD TV model can have a viewing angle of only 45 degrees. But if you choose one of the modern models, then you don’t need to worry, since today the viewing angle on LCD and plasma TVs is the same.
Illumination Uniformity		In plasma TVs, uniformity of illumination is ensured by the fact that each of the pixels is itself a light source and glows in the same way as the others. On LCD TVs, lighting uniformity depends on the lamp, but uniformity is still difficult to achieve.
Screen burn-in		Screen burn-in mainly affects plasma displays when viewing a static image. Over time, all objects may develop non-existent shadows, which is actually fixable. This is a common problem with devices containing phosphorus. LCD monitors do not have it, and, therefore, they do not face such a problem.
Energy efficiency		LCD TVs consume almost 2 times less electricity than plasma TVs. This is due to the fact that the main amount of energy in plasma TVs is spent on cooling and powerful fans, but in LCD panels, practically nothing is used except the lighting lamp.
Durability		For LCD TV, the service life can reach up to 100,000 hours, while plasma has no more than 60,000 hours. In addition, for LCD screens this figure means the resource of the backlight lamp, and for plasma it means the resource of the matrix. If you choose plasma, by the time those 60,000 hours have passed, the screen brightness will be half as bright.
Compatibility		In principle, both plasma and liquid crystal modern TVs there is enough variety of functions and interfaces. This may also be the ability to connect various game consoles, audio systems, Smart functions TV and 3D. However, LCD displays win due to the fact that they are best suited for use with a computer. They are better visible various schemes and graphics, as there are more pixels per inch than plasma monitors.
Price		Plasma TV on this moment cost noticeably more than liquid crystal models with the same diagonal.

As a result, we can say that plasma panels have better color reproduction and response speed, while liquid crystal models are more energy efficient, durable and not subject to screen burnout. Therefore, before choosing what you need: LCD or plasma, decide what is most important for you in such a device.