The main types of monitors. Types of modern monitors

The monitor as a means of visual display of information has existed for a long time and has experienced several revolutionary changes in its history. If not yet a few years ago, manufacturers mainly fought for the possibility of providing high basic characteristics of the "picture", today the competition between different concepts of the implementation of this device becomes tougher. Modern types of monitors differ in a variety of criteria that determine not only the quality of the image, but also the availability of communication interfaces, energy-saving indicators, functionality and other operational qualities.

What is the difference between a monitor and a TV?

At first glance, modern monitors for computer technology are no different from televisions. At least, if we compare small models of similar size, then the difference can be overlooked. And yet it is. So, if a classic TV is a stand-alone device that receives and reproduces audio and video signals from cable and satellite stations, the monitor is a hardware tool for processing and providing graphics information, the source of which is a special video card. As for the external differences, they most clearly express the type of monitor on the laptop, which can be represented by one of the matrices of the family of liquid crystal displays. In particular, the matrix formats TN, MVA and the most up-to-date development are now widespread - IPS. Compared to the same TVs, these modules provide a higher quality and detail of the reflection of graphic information per unit of screen area.

Types of matrices for computer displays

The basic module, which is balanced by characteristics and therefore widely used, is TN. This system provides a good response time, on average by 20 ms, and is characterized by low manufacturing cost. But because of the modest color rendering and low contrast, such matrices are not in demand among experienced connoisseurs of high-quality images. The best replacement for such devices are the IPS and TFT modules - a type of monitor that has a decent contrast, is not allocated with broken pixels and translates optimal color reproduction at large viewing angles. But the TFT module in modern versions costs more and requires a higher power consumption.

Classification by type of information reflected

There are two fundamentally different concepts of outputting information to the screen in the form of an image. Classical is considered an alphanumeric system, which is implemented in displays that process a character or text signal. Among the latest varieties of this family deserves attention so-called intelligent monitor, endowed with editorial abilities and preprocessing the received data. The second way of reflecting information is graphic, which, in turn, is also divided into two groups. In particular, there are vector and raster types of monitors, which have their own peculiarities. For example, the raster output model is designed just for computer hardware with the corresponding graphics subsystem. Vector displays are more often used in radar, gaming machines and other equipment that does not require high quality reflection of graphic data.

Classification by screen type

The oldest today is a monitor that works with an electron-beam tube. These are CRT screens, which are almost never found on sale. To the traditional and also obsolete can be attributed and liquid crystal monitors. In this case, there are different types of LCD-monitors working on liquid crystals. These are the same matrices that are used in equipping laptops - the most modern ones include the IPS and TN + film modules. In the same family of screens, the most progressive technology is LED, based on light-emitting diodes. Such models of monitors provide high quality of the image and in some versions show good energy-saving abilities. Technologically, the perfect continuation of this concept is the OLED monitor, which uses a light-emitting diode of organic form.

Classification by interface

Nowadays, it makes sense to talk about the two types of interfaces that are most common: an analog VGA and an HDMI system, which, while not new, provides a high quality picture and sound transmission. The VGA port is already the last representative of analog interfaces. Against the background of digital signal transmission channels, it loses noticeably in quality, but it is still used to maintain the usual functional of the technology in terms of connection. As for HDMI, in fact, it is a DVI-D interface adapted for home appliances, intended also for processing multi-channel audio. Today, this connector can be equipped with any type of LCD monitor, as well as projectors and plasma panels. To realize the connection via this channel, you need to use the passive DVI-D adapter. It should be taken into account that not all analog outputs even theoretically allow the possibility of connecting via HDMI and using an adapter.

Classification by video adapter type

Any monitor needs an input signal processing system. This function with further translation is performed by video adapters that allow several connection configurations. In particular, separate video cards require the presence of PCI or AGP connectors, due to which provide high efficiency and operational flexibility. Another option is a group of graphics core chips, which is embedded in the board. This solution is cheaper and does not involve hassle in use, but loses the previous version in terms of the same efficiency and performance. Modern types of computer monitor are most often equipped with a full integrated video adapter. This option is even cheaper, but, again, does not allow you to maximize the potential of the input signal.

Classification by type of coating

There are two types of coatings for monitors - matte and glossy. The first option is good because it does not allow the incident light to be reflected, but it is characterized by lower color rendering. Glossy models, by contrast, provide a more saturated and vivid image, but because of the reflection of glare can be inconvenient in terms of visual perception. Assessing these types of monitors, do not forget about the practicality of care for them. For example, on the matte surface there are no traces and divorces, which can not be said for glossy coatings.

General characteristics

The operational parameters of the monitors determine how comfortable the perception of the "picture" will be. First of all it is necessary to note the resolution, which in the newest models is 2560x1600. The depth of color will determine how saturated the image will be. In today's market there are almost no monochrome models, and the versions in the last families have at least 32-bit matrix. Virtually all standard types of monitors operate at a frequency in the range of 60-100 Hz. As this value increases, the flicker effect decreases during translation, which increases the comfort during viewing. Of course, the size of the monitor matters. Today you can find small-format models for 17-20 inches, and screens for 30-40 inches.

Criteria for choosing a monitor

In addition to the main features, it should take into account the functionality of the monitor, its ergonomics and the availability of additional accessories. In terms of functionality, the models differ in the range of settings, the availability of special operating modes, special features of energy-saving operation, etc. Evaluating which type of monitor is best for specific tasks will not be out of place with the implementation of the interface. In this case, the most convenient way of performing the same settings is selected - via the monitor menu or by means of mechanical controls on the housing. As for additional accessories, they are mainly related to the fasteners. The more quality brackets, racks and retaining panels, the more reliable will be the stability of the entire structure.

Monitor Manufacturers

The leaders of the segment are manufacturers such as BenQ, ASUS, DELL, Samsung, etc. The developers of these companies are trying to master not only the main technological directions in terms of improving the quality of the image, but also focus on the specifics of the interaction of monitors with other components of the computer. The middle class is represented by the Hitachi, SuperSonic and Philips brands. Under the brands of these manufacturers are produced all the main types of monitors from LCD to the latest models on the OLED platform. And if the technological perfection of this product may be inferior to the above-mentioned advanced companies, then in price terms, it has the advantage. For example, the average Philips monitor can be purchased for 10-12 thousand rubles, while analogous by the performance parameters of the offer ASUS or BenQ are around 15-18 thousand. At the same time, the budget segment in which they try To present their designs and premium, and little-known companies. In this group, you can find models of modern monitors with a price tag of about 5-7 thousand.

Conclusion

Segmentation of monitors by classes and types as the introduction of new developments becomes more complex and vague. Subtypes appear in the seemingly established segments - liquid crystal and LED-monitors. Two popular varieties become overgrown with different modifications, endowed with new functions and improved in the properties of ergonomics. In particular, modern types of monitors have long switched to digital interfaces, are gradually supplied with support for the prospective 4K playback format and are increasingly appearing in sensor designs. Of course, there is no need to improve the basic principles of creating monitors. In this respect, the LED platform and the OLED system, which already has its technological modifications, are the most interesting for manufacturers.