The monitor as a means of visual display of information has existed for a long time and has experienced several revolutionary changes in its history. If not a few years ago, manufacturers mainly fought for the possibility of ensuring high basic characteristics of the “picture”, today competition between different concepts of the implementation of this device is getting tougher. Modern types of monitors differ in many criteria, which determine not only image quality, but also the presence of communication interfaces, energy-saving indicators, functionality and other operational qualities.
What is the difference between a monitor and a TV?
At first glance, modern monitors for computer technology are no different from TVs. At least, if you compare small models of a similar size, you can not notice the difference. And yet she is. So, if a classic TV is an autonomous device that receives and reproduces audio and video signals from cable and satellite stations, then the monitor is a hardware tool for processing and providing graphic information, the source of which is a special video card. As for the external differences, they are most clearly expressed by the type of monitor on a laptop, which can be represented by one of the matrices of the family of liquid crystal displays. In particular, today TN, MVA matrix formats and the most modern development - IPS are widespread. Compared with the same TVs, these modules provide higher quality and more detailed reflection of graphic information per unit screen area.
Matrix Types for Computer Displays
The base module, which is balanced in terms of performance and therefore widely used, is TN. This system provides a good response time, an average of 20 ms, and has a low manufacturing cost. But due to modest color rendering indicators and low contrast, such matrices are not in demand among sophisticated connoisseurs of high-quality images. The best replacement for such devices is the IPS and TFT modules - a type of monitor that has decent contrast, does not stand out with broken pixels and translates optimal color reproduction at large viewing angles. But the TFT module in modern versions is more expensive and requires higher power consumption.
Classification by type of information displayed
There are two fundamentally different concepts for displaying information on the screen as an image. An alphanumeric system, which is implemented in displays that process a character or text signal, is considered a classic. Among the latest varieties of this family, the so-called intelligent monitor, endowed with editorial capabilities and pre-processes the received data, deserves attention. The second way of reflecting information is graphic, which, in turn, is also divided into two groups. In particular, there are vector and raster types of monitors that have their own characteristics. For example, the raster output model is designed specifically for computer equipment with the corresponding graphics subsystem. Vector displays are more often used in radars, slot machines and other equipment that does not require high-quality reflection of graphic data.
Screen Type Classification
The oldest one to date is a cathode ray tube monitor. These are CRT screens that are almost never found on sale. The traditional and also obsolete include liquid crystal monitors. However, there are different types of LCD monitors that run on liquid crystals. These are the same matrices that are used in equipping laptops - IPS and TN + film modules can be classified as the most modern. In the general screen family, LED technology, based on light-emitting diodes, is the most progressive. Such monitor models provide high image quality and in some versions show good energy-saving abilities. A technologically more advanced continuation of this concept is the OLED monitor, which uses an organic light emitting diode.
Interface Classification
Nowadays, it makes sense to talk about the two types of interfaces that are most common - an analog VGA and an HDMI system, which, although not new, provides high-quality transmission of “picture” and sound. The VGA port is already the last representative of analog interfaces. Compared to the digital channels of signal broadcasting, it loses noticeably in quality, but is still used to maintain the usual functionality of the equipment in terms of connection. As for HDMI, in fact, it is a DVI-D interface adapted for household appliances, also intended for processing multi-channel audio. Today, this connector can be equipped with any type of LCD monitor, as well as projectors and plasma panels. To implement a connection on this channel, you must use the passive adapter of the DVI-D system. It should be borne in mind that not all analog outputs even theoretically allow the ability to connect via HDMI and using an adapter.
Video adapter classification
Any monitor needs an input signal processing system. This function with further broadcasting is performed by video adapters that allow several connection configurations. In particular, separate video cards require PCI or AGP slots, which provide high efficiency and operational flexibility. Another connection option is a group of chips of the graphics core, which is built into the board. This solution is cheaper and does not entail any hassle in use, but loses to the previous option in terms of the same efficiency and productivity. Modern types of computer monitor are most often equipped with a full-fledged integrated video adapter. This option is even cheaper, but, again, does not allow you to maximize the potential of the input signal.
Classification by type of coating
There are two types of coatings for monitors - matte and glossy. The first option is good because it does not allow incident light to be reflected, but at the same time it is characterized by lower color rendering rates. Glossy models, on the contrary, provide a richer and brighter image, but due to the reflection of glare, they can be inconvenient in terms of visual perception. When evaluating these types of monitors, one should not forget about the practicality of caring for them. For example, on the matte surface there are no traces and stains, which can not be said about glossy coatings.
General characteristics
The operational parameters of monitors determine how comfortable the perception of the "picture" will be. First of all, it is worth noting the resolution, which in the latest models is 2560x1600. The color depth will determine how saturated the image will be. There are practically no monochrome models on the modern market, and versions in the latest families have at least a 32-bit matrix. Almost all standard types of monitors operate at a frequency in the range of 60-100 Hz. As this indicator increases, the effect of flicker decreases during broadcasting, which increases comfort during viewing. Of course, the size of the monitor also matters. Today you can find both small-format models at 17-20 inches, and screens at 30-40 inches.
Monitor Selection Criteria
In addition to the main characteristics, you should consider the functionality of the monitor, its ergonomics and the presence of additional accessories. According to the functionality of the model, they differ in the range of settings, the presence of special operating modes, special features of energy-saving operation, etc. Estimating which type of monitor is best for specific tasks, it will be useful to determine the implementation of the interface. In this case, the most convenient way to make the same settings is selected - through the monitor menu or through mechanical controls on the case. As for the optional accessories, they mainly relate to fasteners. The better the brackets, racks and holding panels, the more reliable the stability of the entire structure will be.
Monitor manufacturers
The leaders of the segment are manufacturers such as BenQ, ASUS, DELL, Samsung, etc. The developers of these companies strive to master not only the main technological areas in terms of improving image quality, but also focus on the specifics of the interaction of monitors with other computer components. The middle class is represented by Hitachi, SuperSonic and Philips brands. Under the brands of these manufacturers are issued all the main types of monitors from LCD to the latest models on the OLED platform. And if the technological perfection of these products can be inferior to the above-mentioned leading companies, then in price terms it has an advantage. For example, an average Philips monitor can be purchased for 10-12 thousand rubles, while ASUS or BenQ offers similar in operating parameters cost about 15-18 thousand. At the same time, the budget segment, in which they try represent their developments and premium, and little-known companies. In this group you can find models of modern monitors with a price tag of about 5-7 thousand.
Conclusion
The segmentation of monitors by class and type as new developments are introduced becomes more complex and vague. Subtypes appear in seemingly established segments - liquid crystal and LED monitors. Two popular varieties are overgrown with different modifications, are endowed with new functions and are improved in ergonomic properties. In particular, modern types of monitors have long switched to digital interfaces, are gradually being equipped with support for a promising 4K playback format and are increasingly appearing in touch versions. Of course, the basic principles of creating monitors do not stand still. In this regard, the most logical interest among manufacturers is the LED platform and its continuing OLED system, already with its technological modifications.