Top 10 HDTV queries6. Does the HDMI version in an HDTV matter?Actually, there should not be too much concern over the HDMI version on your HDTV since both versions 1.2 and 1.3 can adequately support 1080p input signals. The only tangible advantages for HDMI 1.3 here are Lip Sync to automatically synchronize audio and video playback, and Deep Color for supporting higher color depth. That said, compatible content for Deep Color is currently limited to homemade videos recorded on the latest HD camcorders.7. What is plasma burn-in and how can one avoid it?This very much depends on individual plasma TVs, though most brands implement some form of anti burn-in feature such as pixel orbiter to minimize the risk and white wash to correct accidentally "burned" images. Anyway, it's recommended to avoid static graphics such as station logos, game scores and news tickers for a prolonged duration, say, around an hour or longer. This is particularly crucial for the first 100 to 200 hours of run-in time after initial installation. Another recommendation is to tune down the screen brightness level to reduce potential burn-in.8. Are 200Hz LCD TVs twice as good as 100Hz models?In certain panning scenes, we do encounter slight differences in motion fluidity between 100Hz and 200Hz HDTVs. Most of the time, however, there's negligible improvement between the two. There's also the question of personal tolerance to motion blur and judder. Some consumers are pretty particular when it comes to these artifacts. On the flip side, there're also videophiles who associate judder with film-like movie reproduction. For users on a budget, a 100Hz model which is increasingly common and affordable should suffice for now.9. Is it advisable to purchase an HDTV from overseas?There're a few considerations to note when importing an HDTV. These include additional shipping cost, international warranty and local aftersales service. Most importantly, you'll have to ensure that the model is compatible with your local power grid and broadcasting system. A US-centric panel, for example, runs on 110V AC and with ATSC digital tuners. It's unlikely to operate properly in UK-oriented Asian countries on 220/240V AC and the analog PAL broadcast standard.Having said that, a quick workaround for the power supply issue is a step-up/down transformer to adapt foreign electronics for local usage, as well as a universal adapter to accommodate different power plugs. 10. How do I calibrate my HDTV?You could explore inexpensive DVD calibration discs to tune those basic video parameters such as colors and brightness. The discs will cost around S$50 (US$36.81) on average and can be imported from the US through Amazon.com. For more accurate adjustments, there are specialized calibration tools such as DataColor SpyderTV which minimizes error using an optical probe and computer software. Alternatively, just toggle to your TV "Standard" or "Movie" picture modes for starters and fiddle with the settings for best results.Tags: Plasma, TV, animation, Sony Corp., Pixel
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