This type of flat TV produces a picture using a number of cells that are fed a steady stream of neon and xenon gas. The cells are contained within panels of glass and coated with electrodes. The electrodes charge the cells, which fires up the gas, transforming it into plasma. This process results in ultraviolet light. The light then sets off the phosphors in the TV, and the phosphors in turn radiate light.
A group of phosphors is known as a pixel. Depending on the size, a single plasma TV set may contain nearly 3,000,000 pixels, which are responsible for producing the television’s crystal clear picture. Each pixel consists of three cells of red, blue, and green light, which combine to form an image. By uniting these cells, these TVs have the ability to display more than 67 billion colors.
They are different from traditional TVs in that they don’t use the old-fashioned cathode ray picture tube. But, like standard sets, plasma TVs do produce heat, because they burn phosphors. Plasma TV screen sizes vary, from 32"" to 84"
The picture quality on this type of TV is terrific, but it is important to be aware of certain issues:
Because of the necessity of a glass front, glare from ambient light can be distracting and wash out the picture in a bright room.
Because of the technology used to create the detailed picture, it is possible that long standing images, i.e. channel logos, stock tickers, and video game screens can cause "burn in" in which case, the static image is permanently burned in and can detract from the viewer's enjoyment. (note that as technology improves, this has become less of an issue but the risk is still present).
If your home theater design is not in an overly bright room, and video gaming is less frequent, then a Plasma TV may be the perfect choice!
When you go to your local home theater store whether in person, or online, make sure to check out the latest features and advancements to determine which home theater screen type is best for you.
