There are many common myths and untruths about plasma TVs, which indicates that the average person lacks does not fully understand TV plasma technology. Here we dispel ten of the most common myths.
1. Plasma Televisions have better displays than LCD Televisions (and vice versa)
In reality, either type of television can deliver a lovely, sparkling, razor sharp image on a huge screen, but in different ways. Plasma TVs have superior color, black level and contrast, whereas LCDs do not suffer from screen burn-in.
2. Plasma Televisions burn out quickly and need to be replaced every couple of years
A good quality latest-gen plasma TV system such as Pioneer or Panasonic has a lifetime that is estimated at 100,000 hours of display time which is 27 years at 10 hours a day. (This is how long it takes for maximum brightness to decrease by half)
3. Plasma Television Screens are susceptible to image burn-in
Yes and no … older plasma TV systems were suspect and cheaper plasmas might be, but advances in technology have reduced this problem considerably. Static images such as logos, stock tickers and video game score boards are the usual culprits.
4. Plasmas are far too expensive for me to afford
While plasmas cost an arm and a leg when they first came out. The price of a plasma has dropped considering, especially over recent years. The price is still dropping. It is possible to find decent 42 "and 50" plasma TVs for under $ 1000.
5. A Plasma TV display will look amazing as soon as I've unpacked it
Typically plasma TVs are shipped with brightness, contrast and picture set "hot" as this makes them look amazing in a bright lit showroom, however most living rooms are much darker than the average showroom and a plasma Television will need to be adjusted accordingly. This will also extend the life span of your television.
6. Plasma Televisions are a pain to install
No harder than most other things, but with a few big friends and the right mounting platform it can be set up reliably easily. A fancy wall mounting system might be trickier and need the help of a professional.
7. Plasma TVs project radiation. It's dangerous to sit within 10 feet of a plasma Screen
One of a wilder myths about plasma Televisions. In truth a conventional CRT television generates a LOT more radius than a plasma screen and no doubt you've owned many of these.
8. A High Definition (HD) Plasma display screen produces a better image than an Enhanced Definition (ED) one.
This tend to be true, with a few exceptions. A top ED converter can sometimes do a better job than a bargain-bin HD converter. HDTV technology is replacing ED, however so you avoid it.
9. Someone told me that Plasma Televisions need to be "topped up" every year or so.
The "plasma" in a plasma TV screen is actually a gas in its natural state – the plasma is created when electricity is passed through it. It does NOT need to be and CAN NOT be refilled. I have a feeling this is what CON men tell their customers in order to sell extended warranties, but its a fallacy.
10. The way to handle a Plasma TV is just like with any other television system
Plasma TVs can actually be quite delicate, with hundreds of thousands of individual cells that are sandwiched between thin sheets of glass. You must be very careful with the face of a plasma screen – this includes rubbing hard on it or lying a plasma on its face. Once the screen of a plasma TV cracks it can not be repaired.