Specifications

the sharper and clearer the screen images will be. Opt for a flat CRT monitor if you want improved image depiction.
Unlike regular CRTs, flat CRTs don't have convex, or bowed, glass. Compared to standard CRT's, they offer
reduced glare, greater image sharpness, and better uniformity in image brightness. All CRT monitors emit a low
level of electromagnetic radiation. If this is a concern, either opt for a CRT that is built on a low-electromagnetic-
emission MPR II or TCO standard, or buy a TFT-standard LCD monitor.
** Flat-panel LCD monitor **
Ideal for: Anyone who has little space on his desk, is bothered by screen flicker, or who finds the energy-saving
qualities of LCDs appealing. Also, LCDs look great on your desk.
Key features:
Screen size is measured in inches diagonally across the monitor display, with available sizes ranging from 15" to
21+ inches. LCDs take up less space, emit less heat, and consume 70% less energy than CRTs. Resolution varies
by model and is measured in pixels, or individual dots of color. A resolution of 800 x 600 means there are a total of
480,000 pixels on the screen. The higher the resolution, the sharper the image on a given screen size. Image
quality is also affected by contrast ratio, which describes the ratio between black and white on the screen. The
larger the contrast ratio, the better subtle color differences will be displayed on the screen. Image quality is also
influenced by the brightness rating, which is measured in nits. (A nit is a unit of measurement describing the
luminescence, or brightness, in LCD and CRT computer monitors. The more nits, the brighter the display.) The
brighter the display, the easier it is to view images on the screen, even in direct sunlight. When in or near direct
sunlight, LCDs with 300 nits can be much easier to read than CRTs. The smaller the dot pitch - which describes
the amount of space between individual pixels - the sharper and clearer the screen images. There are two popular
interfaces for LCD monitors - digital and analog. While most monitors and cards are designed for analog signals,
some high-end video cards are monitors have digital interfaces (or both digital and analog). For the best screen
image, opt for a model with a digital, rather than an analog, input signal. In either case, make sure that your card
and monitor have compatible interfaces.
Important: When purchasing a monitor, remember that there must be an adequate video graphics card on the
motherboard. An older video card (such as one with 2 MB of memory) will give a new monitor a visible flicker and
will drain it of color. It's important to choose the correct video graphics card for the applications you use. Gamers or
graphic designers may require at least a 32 MB video card. For the ultimate in image quality, match your monitor
with a 64 MB (or larger) video graphics card.
Tip: To avoid eyestrain, place the monitor 18 to 30 inches away from the front edge of your desk.
One of Ralph's handouts covered the details of abbreviations, such as CGA, EGA, VGA, SVGA, XGA, and the
latest UXGA, which has a resolution of 1600 x 1200 pixels, and 65,536 colors. Another handout defined common
terms found in monitor technology, such as shadow mask, aperture grill, de-gauss, and multisync.
As a side note, he explained the common problem shoppers experience in viewing the typical computer store
monitor showroom. He said that a multi-monitor display driver device is used to operate all the units on display, with
an unfortunate loss in quality, due to the switching methods employed. So the only fair way to test a particular unit
is to take it home and try it in that environment. This is especially true for LCD. Sometimes trade fairs offer a better
opportunity to buy equipment,but you should try it with your own eyes to be sure. Stick with the better known
manufacturers for best results.
Used Monitors are classified as toxic waste, and safe, legal disposal of those units is a real problem. Ralph
mentioned that he can put us in touch with a company to help recycle them, so you might consider that offer, before
dumping any old monitors in the trash.
Cleaning CRT monitors can damage the anti-glare coating, so be careful how you do that job. A soft cloth, with a
non-scratch alcohol or ammonia based cleaning solvent will work well. CRT screens attract dust, and LCD screens
are usually very soft, but do not attract dirt. It is not necessary to wipe them off, but follow the manufacturer's
directions for their care.
Our discussion outlasted the tape, so I, regretfully, can not cover the very last part of the talk. However, we had a
drawing for the XP Professional Office, and the winning ticket was awarded to one lucky member. Our other door
prize raffle was held with the Quick-n-Pick, and several other members got their rewards as well. I will miss the next
meeting, so I hope the talk will be covered for you in the July Hardcopy by another reporter.