pixel designs- TFT monitor

Test Process

It wouldn’t be fair to compare a 15-inch monitor with a 20-inch widescreen one. To create a fair ground for comparison, we grouped the monitors based on the screen size. Thus, we have three distinct categories-15-inch, 17-inch and 19-inch & greater. We evaluated the monitors on the basis of their features, performance, ergonomics, build quality, and warranty and support. Let’s move on to what went into each of these parameters.

Features

We began with noting the dimensions, weight and screen size of the TFT monitor. Here, note that the depth of the monitor is not the depth of the display panel, but the footprint. Next, we noted the technical specifications that directly translate into performance. For a TFT monitor the response time, pixel pitch, brightness and contrast ratio are the most important factors. Viewing angle is equally important especially when you are watching a movie together with your family and friends. Presence of a DVI port in addition to D-sub is preferable since you can take the advantage of digital video signal rather than analog signal. Additional video inputs like component, composite and S-video were awarded extra points. Integrated features like speakers, headphone jack, FM radio, USB hub and card reader extend the functionality of the monitor. We took note of all these features and awarded points accordingly. The menu functions were checked for controls like brightness, contrast, screen position, color temperature and auto-adjustment. Finally, we frisked through the package contents. It’s essential that the monitor comes with the required DVI and D-sub cables, driver

CD, quick setup guide and the user manual. The features made up for 25 percent of the overall score.

Performance

Being the most important section of the test, this section carries an overall weightage of 45 percent. For ascertaining the performance of the monitors, we evaluated the viewing angle, reproduction of color gradients and response time. To assess the viewing angle, we viewed red, green, blue and greyscale blocks at the center of the screen from 40 and 80 degree angles. Points were given depending on the visibility of the colored blocks. Reproduction of color gradients is one of the serious weaknesses in most TFT monitors. To ascertain the quality of gradation, we viewed and analyzed full screen gradient images transitioning from black to red, green and blue diagonally. The monitors were graded depending on the smoothness of transition without any banding along the gradations. The response time was evaluated by analyzing the clarity of image and text in lateral motion. The monitors were graded according to the intensity of “Ghosting”. Points were deduced for the presence of

Ergonomics

The TFT monitor should be easy to use. The menu buttons should be easily reachable and functions should be well-described in the OSD so that adjusting the settings is easy for the user. Previous and next buttons for menu choices, separate brightness and contrast adjustment buttons, clarity of OSD, etc were all taken into consideration.

Build quality

Apart from good performance and ergonomics, a monitor should also be robust with a sturdy screen frame, stand and hinges. The base of the monitor should be stable in all the extreme positions. Usage of metal in body construction was given extra points. We also evaluated the aesthetic appeal of each TFT display.

Warranty and support

Since TFT monitors are expensive and delicate devices, they must be backed by robust warranty and support. Should a problem arise, a service center must be present close to where you live. For this purpose, there should be adequate number of service centers spanning across as many cities all over the country. We noted the warranty period, number of service centers in India and the number of cities in which these centers are present.

We concluded the roundup with the “Value for Money” index which was calculated by stacking up the features and performance against the price. The better the features and performance with respect to price, the higher this index. Based on this we have the “Best Value” product in each category in addition to the “Best Performer”.