Flat Panel TV

Flat panel TV refers to any display device that is well flat, like a pancake. Two popular display technologies are considered flat panel TV, LCD and plasma. Both require almost no depth because the display itself is wafer thin.

Both flat panel TV technologies are in the midst of a boom in popularity because of the appeal of a flat display. In practical terms, neither display technology offers anything unique. Cheaper CRT displays are at least as good if not better display devices in terms of picture quality.

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The LCD and plasma displays today are difficult to manufacture in big screen sizes. LCD has a screen size limitation of 36" and the biggest commercially available plasma panel today sits at 61". The largest of both technologies are priced prohibitively at the moment but this is sure to drop quickly.

Both flat panel TV technologies are also considered fixed pixel, which means they must format an HD signal in 1080i (scan lines) to something that fits its maximum resolution. Most have to downconvert it to something closer to 720p because the most common resolution of the flat panel TV is 1024x768.

Pluses

Flat panel TV offers a "gee-wiz" factor that may impress friends.
Displays are bright and fixed pixel means sharp contrasts look good.
Flat panel TV fits almost anywhere and can be mounted on walls or from ceilings.

Minuses

Flat panel TV is cost prohibitive.
Requires higher than average resolution to equal that of 1080i CRT.