compwolf — Fri, 13 Aug 2004 17:29:25 +0000

When looking at LCD monitors there are basics to keep in mind ... Contrast ratio, and the refresh rate.

Simple rule of thumb is the higher the contrast ratio the better color definition (and brightness) you will get ... Also the lower the number on the refresh allows for the faster screen writes. This comes in very handy when you are dealing with high end motion images (flash, shockwave, gaming etc.)

Ultimately you need to take your time since the investment is not a small one and you are going to be using it ALOT ... The monitor you choose should feel the best on your eyes and your color sensibilities ... do not trust what you see when it comes to the mass display setups in some stores ... you will want to see it on a computer using the screens optimal resolution to be sure of what you are getting ... Most stores (other than Walmarts) will be happy to demo a floor display model on a machine for you ... after all, they want your money ...

One other passing note ... as a matter of opinion I would look also for a monitor that has both DVI and Analog inputs. The DVI allows for much higher resolutions and clarity over analog ... but if you do not have the capability right now ... you may get it later and you will be glad the hookup is there ...

Good Luck

andy206uk — Wed, 11 Aug 2004 12:58:42 +0000

All I'm going to say on the matter is:

http://www.apple.com/displays/ 30 Inch.

mmmmmmm

mairving — Wed, 11 Aug 2004 11:08:30 +0000

sarahb wrote: Thanks Mark for the help.

Any advice for when I go to purchase the monitor? Anything special I should be looking for?

Sarahb

I have always had great success with Samsung CRT's and LCD's. They are medium priced but high quality. Dell may be good and now is probably one of the better times to get one with Back to School prices.

sarahb — Tue, 10 Aug 2004 20:39:03 +0000

Thanks Mark for the help.

Any advice for when I go to purchase the monitor? Anything special I should be looking for?

Sarahb

mairving — Tue, 10 Aug 2004 20:05:51 +0000

LCD's are much better nowadays than they were several years ago with color management. You will be fine doing web design/gaming on a LCD monitor. After all a lot of designers use Mac's which nearly all come with LCD screens.