An LCD (liquid crystal dispay) rear projection TV is one of the many types of televisions currently available for purchase. LCD rear projection televisions have several common problems that may make them undesirable.
Manufacture
The rear-projection television was first invented in 1970, but was not widely available to consumers until 1998. Currently, rear projection TVs come in four different formats, including LCD. In an LCD TV, a picture appears by passing a powerful light through a transparent chip made up of individual pixels. This makes manufacturing more complex and expensive than other television models.
Construction
Rear projection LCD televisions feature connections located on the side of the panel rather than in the rear, as is common. This is due to their size, which typically starts at 42 inches. Connections may be difficult to reach and connect wires to, especially if the television is going to be placed inside a wall unit while connected to other audio and video devices.
Common Complaints
A common complaint received by the Consumers Union about LCD rear projection televisions is that the units display unnatural colors when first turned on. With a larger television, some individual pixels may be visible, creating the appearance of watching TV through a screen door. Overheating is also another known issue, which may cause the TV to turn off automatically if left on for long periods of time.
Misconceptions
Some consumers may hear the words "rear projection" and assume the televisions will be large and bulky. However, most LCD rear projection units now feature a slim, compact body. Most are fewer than 18 inches thick. However, these TVs can still weigh a great deal, making them difficult to lift or carry.
Suppliers
Change is ongoing in the rear projection market as these TVs fall in popularity to flat panels and models which are cheaper to manufacture. Of the major names in electronics, only Mitsubishi and Samsung now offer new rear projection models. The high cost of manufacturing an LCD chip and the existence of other innovations currently flooding the market both discourage manufactures from continuing to make rear projection units.
Potential
LCD TVs still produce much brighter images than tube projection TVs, and this is one of the reasons consumers might consider buying one. However, with production dwindling, it is important to weigh your options and check with the manufacturer for an extended warranty and the availability of parts if repairs become necessary.
Tags: rear projection, individual pixels, projection televisions, projection units, rear projection units