Making a choice between Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) and Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) monitors can be confusing. Understanding the pros and cons of both these technologies will help you get a clear picture. Whether you plan to rent a monitor from an AV equipment rental company or you wish to purchase one, understanding the features of both monitor types will help you make an informed decision.

Difference in technology

In case of a CRT monitor, the image is created by phosphorescence. Phosphorescence is created using an electronic beam that hits a phosphor coated screen. This beam scans whole area of the screen at a very high speed to deliver image line by line across the screen. Each image is produced in this manner.

LCD monitors employ a vastly different technology. An LCD screen consists of two sheets of polarizing material with a film of liquid crystals in between. Light modulation by these liquid crystals is used to render images.

LCD technology is expensive and as a result, the cost of LCD monitors is high compared to their CRT counterparts. The high cost of LCD monitors is one of the reasons why people prefer to rent them from AV equipment rental companies.

Monitor size and weight

The big size and bulk are major disadvantages of CRT monitors. In comparison, LCD monitors occupy very less space and are lightweight. This makes LCD monitors a good choice for those having space constraints.

Resolution, color rendering, depth and sharpness

In case of CRT monitors, the images are created by a cathode ray beam, so the resolution in this case is flexible. Image creation in LCD monitors is dependent on fixed number of liquid crystals, resulting in fixed resolution.

Today LCD monitors are leading in terms of color rendering, sharpness and picture quality. The CRT monitor displays can suffer from screen flicker and lack of sharpness.

Presently, the only downside of LCD monitors other than the high cost is the fact that these monitors offer the best view only to those sitting right in front of the screen. The views from other angles may lack clarity. The polarizing nature of the outer screen causes this problem.

LCD monitors are easier on eyes compared to CRT monitors. The brightness of CRT monitors is comparatively more harmful for eyes. If you need to use the monitor to long duration, it is best to opt for LCD monitors.

Power consumption

In terms of power consumption, LCD monitors are an eco friendly choice. The high power consumption of cathode ray tubes translates into lower energy efficiency in the case of CRT monitors. In comparison, LCD monitors consume far less power.

After understanding the advantages and drawbacks of both the technologies, the popularity of LCD monitors should come as no surprise. LCD monitors are superior in terms of picture quality, clarity and space economy. They are also eco friendly as they consume less power. But CRT monitors are still the cost effective option. If you cannot afford to purchase an LCD monitor you can rent one from a reliable AV equipment rental company.

Author Bio: For more information on Washington D.C. computer rental or Washington D.C. AV equipment rental, contact a technology professional at Vernon Computer Source.

Category: Computers and Technology
Keywords: computers, technology, hardware, computer rentals, av equipment rentals, av rentals, hardware rental