LCD monitors have long and thoroughly pushed outdated analogs based on a cathode ray tube on the market . And this despite the fact that LCD-models are on average 40-50% more expensive. But this is precisely what can explain the stable popularity of the initial price segment of high-tech monitors. Obviously, low-cost liquid crystal models are superior in quality to copies from the last century, but can a user really get the same advantages on such a screen as on full versions from the middle segment? The answer to this question can be found in the review of the Samsung SyncMaster 940N monitor, the 19-inch screen of which is an example of a standard format in a budget class. It is also worth noting that the initial price segment is quite densely occupied by competitors, among which LG brand products have serious positions. One way or another, a review of the monitor will make it more complete impression.
Model Overview
The model cannot be considered in isolation from the main N-line, to which it belongs. I must say that the representatives of the family were originally thought out as business-class devices. In particular, such monitors are used in offices, banks and other workplaces of mid-level employees. In this context, the Samsung SyncMaster 940N monitor takes the place of the next representative of the N-series, which replaced 920N. Compared with the departed model, the new version is endowed with a less striking design. That is, it turned out to be less presentable in terms of design and is available to customers in one color and with a simplified stand. However, the 920N model did not differ in special stylistic refinements.
Monitor specifications
If in terms of design, the model did not provide obvious breakthroughs in the segment, then the internal filling, at least, does not look stereotyped against the background of competitors. The manufacturer used a lot of advanced developments, which allowed to implement decent performance of the SyncMaster 940N model, the characteristics of which are as follows:
- The diagonal is 19 inches.
- Aspect ratio - 4: 3.
- Viewing angles horizontally and vertically - 160 °.
- Resolution (in maximum format) - 1280x1024.
- Brightness - 300 cd / m2.
- The response time is 8 ms.
- Dynamic Contrast Ratio - 700: 1.
- The passband is 140 MHz.
- The depth of the flowers is 16.2 million.
- Power consumption in sleep mode - 1 W.
- Operating power - 38 watts.
- VESA mount - 7.5x7.5 cm.
- Dimensions with stand - 407 mm in width, 422 mm in height and 217 mm in depth.
- Weight - 4.8 kg.
Particular attention when analyzing the characteristics should be given to the response time and viewing angles of 160 °. These two indicators just illustrate two opposing qualities that express the strengths and weaknesses of the SyncMaster 940N, respectively. The advantages include response time, since today even 5 ms is a worthy indicator in this segment. As for viewing angles, the already undeveloped TN matrix simply cannot provide a high-quality image with such parameters.
Monitor economizer
One of the implemented technological innovations that budget monitors do not get so often is the economizer. This is a system that allows you to manage power supply with the expectation of optimizing its consumption. This mode is activated during periods when low electricity consumption is assumed. And vice versa, when the load on the SyncMaster 940N occurs, the system switches back to the standard mode of operation and, accordingly, power consumption requests are restored. For the full operation of this system, the economizer must interact with the resources of the computer's video card through a special utility. The user is only required to install and configure it in accordance with their requests.
Monitor installation and connection
As a rule, the connection of the monitor to the video card is realized through the D-sub connector. However, with the help of adapters you can implement other connection methods. Also, the monitor is equipped with a standard electrical cord, which must be included in the mains. Regarding the installation of the SyncMaster 940N, there are two methods that involve the use of a conventional or swivel stand. In the first case, the Vesa specification lock is used, with which the monitor is installed on a stable platform.
The second installation method involves mounting on the base of the articulated stand. In this case, it will be necessary to dismantle the mounting plate on the rear lower side of the monitor, which further integrates the base of the locking adapter. Thanks to this installation method, the Samsung SyncMaster 940N monitor is endowed with even greater stability, since lever screws and brackets are involved in the installation process.
The nuances of repair and self-diagnosis
Often problems in the form of a lack of image, sound or the main menu are solved by checking the correct connection of the monitor. In this case, you should check not only the connection of the device with the video card, but also the direct connection to the computer. Also, the Samsung SyncMaster 940N monitor is equipped with a self-test system. With its help, you can check the performance of the equipment without manipulating the graphics card and PC. To do this, just disconnect the video cable from the computer and turn on the monitor. If a message appears asking you to check the quality of the connection, then the equipment is working properly.
Positive monitor reviews
Although there are a lot of positive feedback regarding the direct quality of the broadcast image, reliability is probably a special place in this category of user opinions. Many owners of the monitor have been using it for several years and have never yet encountered the need for serious repairs. This contributes to the build quality of the monitor, and the durability of the element base. Noteworthy are the characteristics of the “picture” provided by the Samsung SyncMaster 940N monitor when working with a computer. It is noted for clarity, high color quality and wide range of settings. All the described advantages are supported by the pleasant design of the device, although, as noted, the model is not so presentable in comparison with its predecessors.
Negative reviews
There is little criticism, but it could not have done without it. Of course, first of all, such reviews relate to viewing angles. Even if you slightly change the viewing position, the differences in the image will become apparent. However, do not forget about the budget category, to which the SyncMaster 940N monitor and other representatives of its family belong. Demanding a higher quality would be unnecessary - models with such characteristics are more expensive and are produced using other technologies. Nevertheless, the modest choice of means of connecting via different cables has long been not typical even for low-cost monitors.
Conclusion
Such a monitor will organically fit into a complete set of an inexpensive computer for solving simple tasks. It can be both home needs, and work with office applications. SyncMaster 940N will not surprise you with its special image quality, but it will surpass many representatives of a higher class in reliability and durability. Accordingly, for gamers this option is not suitable due to poor functionality. On the whole, if you need an attractive model in its design, stable in operation, and undemanding in maintenance, the Samsung version can be an ideal solution. In the box of pluses of the model, it is worth adding a democratic price.