Tech Decisions: The low-down on high-tech TV’s
In part 1 of our boardroom technology series (The basics of display system selection), we looked at the factors that come into play when selecting your TV or projector. In this second part, we take a closer look at TV’s. What the differentiating factors are between various models – and how these affect that all-important consideration: price.
There’s nothing more tiresome than being invited to a braai and having to hear your best mate go on about his latest, state-of-the-art TV. Unless, of course, you’re watching the rugby at his place – in which case, that gorgeous new screen is simply another token of your friendship, reaffirmed.
But life isn’t all braais and rugby. Many of us need to do our time in the boardroom, so we may as well ensure that we make the most of it, with technology that supports and enhances our business efforts.
No two TV’s are the same
We’ve certainly come a long way since the days of tube televisions, where the biggest decision was in choosing between black and white, and colour. These days, a trip to the local AV store will have your head reeling with all the options available to you. So let’s have a look at the various aspects that come into play:
Screen Size
The bigger the screen, the bigger the price-tag. However, if your room is small, there really is no need for an extra-large screen. Screen sizes are depicted in inches, which indicate the diagonal measurement from corner to corner (e.g. bottom left to top right).
HD Ready vs Full HD vs 4k… What does is all mean?
Native resolution is simply an indicator of the picture quality of a display. The higher the resolution, the clearer your on-screen image will be. With HD Ready, there are 720 horizontal lines of picture. With Full HD, there are 1080. And with 4k, there are 4096 horizontal lines of picture. (This is an improvement of over 600% from the minimum 576 horizontal lines of standard definition.)
You’ve probably also come across resolution descriptions containing a “p”, e.g. 1080p. This means that the technology uses progressive scanning, which means that full frame images are rapidly updated, as opposed to interlaced scans, which update half the screen at a time. While your eyes cannot detect the interlaced scanning updates, it will give more of a flicker than the progressive scan, which provides a smoother, more lifelike picture.
Inputs and outputs
The amount and types of inputs and outputs will vary between TV’s. For instance, some TV’s will have one HDMI input, where others might have four. The amount and type of inputs you need will depend on the number and type of devices that that you would like to connect to your TV. If you’re planning on using older technology alongside your TV, you do have the option of using a convertor as an interface between the two – however, you might experience loss of quality.
Built-in media players
Some TV’s have a built-in media player, which will automatically play video or audio via a flash drive. This provides a “plug and play” environment, which is particularly useful for guests and presenters, who don’t need to worry about compatibility issues.
On board apps and internet connectivity
SMART TV’s often come pre-configured with various social media and entertainment apps games, etc. Certain brands may offer exclusive apps, but most will provide access to the most popular apps.
Internet connectivity allows your TV to connect to a wireless network to stream a variety of online content – and with built-in wi-fi fast becoming a standard in SMART TV’s, there’s no need to plug in an external wireless adaptor, or run metres of Ethernet cable.
So, what will it be for your boardroom? If you’d like us to help you find the best options to suit your business needs, brand and budget, we’re happy to assist.
At CommsPartner, we realise that the difference is in the detail, no matter how small. We apply this thinking to our designs, our installations and our after-sales service delivery.
Ready to take the next step? Want to work with our professional team to assist with your project?
We will assist you with:
And a whole lot more! Contact us today for a free consultation meeting.