Ask MetaFilter questions tagged with plasma

White flatscreen TV around 42"?

Riki tiki — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 09:57:20 -0800

Looking for a good flatscreen TV, 42" or thereabouts... and white. I haven't been able to find anything that size that isn't in industry-standard black. Any suggestions?

Plasma burn in new TV

gfrobe — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 10:13:46 -0800

I've got burn in on my new plasma TV screen. Is there anything I can do about it? I bought a new LG plasma TV just under a month ago. My kids have been watching PBS Kids in the evenings and today I noticed that when the TV screen is white (i.e. when I'm surfing the web on the TV and come to a white background page) the Kids 13 logo is clearly visible on the bottom right side of my screen.

Should I take the TV back or is this normal for a plasma (I thought plasma burn in was supposed to be a thing of the past these days)? Or is there anything else I can do to get rid of this burn in?

Why does my plasma TV keep going black?

flowerofhighrank — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 22:03:35 -0800

Why does my RCA plasma TV keep going black for 5 seconds at a time, outta nowhere? It's about 3 years old and has no other problems...it just all of a sudden (of course at the peak of the action!) turns off and turns back on. No discernible pattern, hooked up to all the modern conveniences. Can anybody help?

Advantages of LCD over plasma?

Alaska Jack — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 23:03:00 -0800

For what reason would one buy an LCD TV? I've finally talked myself into getting one of them fancy digital TVs. So about the first thing I did was research the respective benefits of Plasma and LCD TVs. Here's what I've come up with:

Plasma: Cheaper, wider viewing angle, deeper blacks (i.e. better contrast).

LCD: ??

Supposedly, plasmas were once subject to burn-in, but evidently that's not an issue anymore; and also, plasma screens tend to have a bit more glare in bright rooms. But can't you just close the curtains?

Can anyone tell me why I would want an LCD?

Bonus question: I heard that for some reason, a plasma screen won't display "true" HD (whatever that means) unless the screen is 50" or more. Is that true?

Apparently Daewoo makes TVs. Where can I find parts for one?

twins named Lugubrious and Salubrious — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 12:45:24 -0800

Where can I get a display stand for a Daewoo DP-42SM plasma monitor? Asking for someone else:

I'm looking for either a service center or a place where I can order a display stand (not wall-mount) for a Daewoo SP-42SM plasma monitor. Can anyone offer any advice? Their service centers don't seem to be that well represented online in the US.

Thanks in advance.

Where can I download a Sony KDE p42 manual from?

paulramshaw — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 02:23:27 -0800

Sony Plasma TV Manual Download Hi.

Anyone know where I can download a manual for a Sony KDE P42?

Thanks.

never meaning no harm

Antidisestablishmentarianist — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 09:34:43 -0800

What is the best auto racing simulation? I currently have no gaming equipment. After reading this comment, I decided to hone my driving skills with a simulator. Thing is, I have no equipment other than a mac laptop. In a way this is a bonus because I am not tied into any particular solution.

What I want: the most realistic competitive driving experience I can get. I don't care if I need a PC, a PSx, a Wii or ?? The only real reason I would really buy a gaming system, or a PC, would be for this. A great selection of real tracks would also be excellent, I plan to drive competitively on some midwestern circuits, and the preparation would be very helpful. Autocross and rally or rallycross tracks would be nice.

I plan to buy a specialized seat, a force feedback wheel, and a big TV.

So, what is the best driving simulator not taking tracks into account, and what is the best one if you want a wide array of real tracks? Availability of an online gaming experience would be an appreciated extra.

thanks in advance for what I know will be good advice.

Attics, Televisions and Missouri Summers

luftmensch — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 14:46:39 -0800

New place has a lovely attic, finished but no AC up there. We're planning on having the windows open with fans in them to keep the air moving and bearable. Would it be a bad idea to have a TV (plasma) up there in the humid southeastern Missouri summer? I know most plasmas have operating humidity of up to 80 or 90%, and it can easily reach that on the worst of summer days here. Would the inside humidity be equal to that of outside with the windows open? Could some dehumidifying solution near the TV (in the middle of the room, far from the windows) prevent an untimely death of a big shiny toy?

I checked out some suggestions from this question, but I somehow doubt a few packs of silica gel would be enough to convince my partner his TV is safe.

Hep B Antibody Production

Jenna Roadman — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 09:49:09 -0800

What factors affect the amount of antibodies you produce after a Hep B immunization shot? I was looking into becoming a regular blood donor and decided plasma would be a better way to go. Then I found out there is a great need for plasma with hep B antibodies and I just happened to be going through my hep B immunization regimen and thought that would be a great opportunity to give back to veterans and help vaccine production.

I found out that only 25% of people produce enough antibodies to qualify. Other than planning to donate soon after my shot, what other factors affect the amount of antibodies I produce? Is it mostly genetic or are there things I can do to help, such as exercise more or take supplements?

UK Supplier for Plasma Screen Trolley/Storage case required

smcniven — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 03:18:31 -0800

Need to find a UK based supplier for a Plasma Screen trolley/storage case. My organization recently purchased some Plasma TVs to expand our AV repertoire. We are now trying to find a UK based supplier who can sell us a storage/deployment solution for these TVs.

We've looked at various items such as trolleys that can be wheeled around our building but have decided that we'd also like something that can act as a storage unit when not in use.

The only thing we've found so far that come close to this is a case made in the US (Road Ready Cases) that houses the TV screen and then uses a motorized lift to lift it out of the case for display purposes. It's a bit pricey but is very much what we are looking for.

We'd like to see if we can source a similar type of product that isn't quite as expensive. The key requirements are the ability to store the tv when not in use and then display it when required. Having to lift the TV out of the storage case would not be desirable (TVs are about 75kg each)

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Sun as electrical plasma

Tarn — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 03:59:00 -0800

Having watched Thunderbolts of the Gods, and found it quite eye-opening, I'm wondering if there are compelling reasons to accept or not to accept the possibility that the Sun is made of electrical plasma, rather than being a nuclear furnace.

What to show on our office bigscreen?

viama — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 04:05:52 -0800

Are there any websites optimised to show a news feed on a TV screen? I'm wondering what to show on our newly mounted plasma screen in the office. We've got a PC attached to it that's currently showing a blocky feed from the BBC website.

Startech syngas

Mr_Zero — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 22:55:38 -0800

Can Startech's syngas power a ocean capable ships engine? I am trying to determine if you could power an ocean going ship with syngas.

Best HDMI switch?

matteo — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 09:12:45 -0800

Best HDMI switcher out there? (plasma TV only has one port) I'd like at least three, maybe four ports. Remote control not really necessary, I'd like to have maximum image quality though and I can spend, within reason, to obtain it. I see they're all between 50 and 100 dollars, maybe there are some known lemons out there? Maybe there's a kickass brand? Thanks.

Are these things just a big scam?

fvox13 — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 17:37:21 -0800

Where does one buy an HDTV these days? (Rochester, NY if that helps) So, I'm looking to get at least a 50 incher, and I'd like to spend under $1500 (I'd go slightly higher, depending on the set). I don't like Plasma, since I've seen a lot of burnt-in sets. Maybe LCD or DLP?

I've seen *SO* much variation of price... I've looked at NewEgg, Best Buy, Circuit City, and a smaller local retailer (Charlotte Appliance).

Where's the best place to go? I know enough to avoid those $50 HDMI cables, but I don't know where to go to get the best deal / what to look for.

Text Display on HDTVs

ThomThomThomThom — Mon, 12 May 2008 08:17:03 -0800

LCD vs Plasma displays for displaying text? What's the difference? So, my boss is thinking about getting two large (>30") monitors with digital inputs to display daily schedules behind the front desk of the Arts Center where I work. He insists that some LCD monitors display text strangely because the pixels are too large (I'm pretty clueless so far as this sort of thing goes.) Anyway, he was looking at Apple 30" displays and was dissatisfied with the size, but he seems pretty sure that a large LCD is what he's going for. I know that there are offices at the university that I attend that use Plasma screens to do much the same thing (though several of these have been burned out since they never turned them off and kept the same image on them for about a week.) I've looked around on google, but I can't find much of anything directly relating to the clarity of text on large-size HDTV screens (there isn't a difference between a display marketed as a monitor vs HDTV. right?) so I was hoping that someone here could spare me a few words?

How do I lower my blood protein?

Glitter Ninja — Tue, 06 May 2008 19:51:59 -0800

How can I lower my blood protein? I attempted to donate plasma the other day with a friend (poor college student, only able to work full time, trying to help out with some odds and ends bills) but was told my blood protein level was about 14, when it should have been between 6 and 9. They asked me if I ate a lot of red meat (which I don't- almost 95% white meat only). Are there any alterations I can easily make to my lifestyle or my diet that would make it so I can donate plasma?

Flat TV's behind one-way mirrors?

monkeybutt — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 17:24:19 -0800

Flat TV's behind two-way mirrors? Good idea or no? Does anybody out there have any firsthand experience with LCD's or Plasma TV's situation behind two-way mirrors so that they "disappear" when they turn off?

We are renovating our house (on a budget!) and the designer suggested this scenario to my wife as a way to de-clutter our home. I'm open to it but know from experience (i work in the film biz and visual effects) that ANYTHING you put in front of a light source (or tv) will knock down the gain. my question is how bad of a hit will i take on the luminance of the TV? I have seen the commercially available flats that offer the tv-to-mirror feature, but they are WAY out of my price range. What I was hoping for is a resource for the right type of glass that will achieve what we want with a minimal light loss (if there is such a thing).

thanks for any help

You down with HDTV?

MarkLark — Wed, 05 Dec 2007 14:18:10 -0800

Looking for advice on HDTV purchase, where to buy, which models are recommended and which to avoid. Plasma, DLP, LCD? OMG! Hi all - I'm looking to purchase a new HDTV (perhaps as soon as this weekend) and considering the hefty pricetag involved, I just want to be sure I'm making the right choices. I'm looking for any useful tips you can throw my way, or at least guide me in the direction I think I'm going.

We currently have a 48-inch HD rear projection which needs to be replaced. I have an unhealthy obsession with CNN so now there is a permanent CNN logo burned into the bottom left hand corner of the screen. That's now going to be "my" TV so I'm in search of something nice to replace it.

After scouring all askMeFi posts tagged with HDTV, I came across a recent post which gave much praise to the Samsung brand. After checking various models via online reviews (CNet was a good resource, linked in that post), I've taken a shine to the HLTxx87S series, which is the new "LED Engine DLP", no bulb to burn out. Has anyone heard anything - good or bad - about either these models or this new type of video technology?

Finally, price: I was originally setting my max price at around $1500-1600 (US). One of the reasons I'm leaning towards the model above is because Amazon has the 56" model for $1600 - or a 61" for $1800. This seems to be a great bargain considering their regular list price and what other stores list them for.

Assuming I went with this model, is it worth an additional $200 to get 6 more inches (hmm that sounds weird). Is it possible to go "too big"? I've heard of "smearing" on some sets during fast-action scenes, and wonder if this would be more evident on a larger screen.

My last (and nearly biggest) concern is the fact that this would be purchased from Amazon. Has anyone made a big-ticket purchase like this from Amazon before? The pros are that their prices are much cheaper than any of the Big Box places in my area (Best Buy, primarily) - plus there would be an added bonus of no sales tax. I'm concerned with having something that large shipped to me, what happens if it's faulty and needs to be returned, etc. If I end up not going through Amazon, I'm probably going to have to look for a different set at a Big Box store that fits my budget.

I'm not totally sold on this model or brand yet, so if you know of other reliable sets in the approximate neighborhood of $1500, 50+ inches and are burn-in resistant/proof, I'd love to hear about it. (Some gaming may be done on this set as well, but will be primarily for watching HD cable/movies, if this matters.)

1080p v 720p

jmd82 — Thu, 22 Nov 2007 09:30:37 -0800

42" plasma 1080p v 720p quality question. I've found the "perfect" 42" 720p plasma to buy these holidays. I've seen it in action compared to some 1080ps in the same price range, my untrained eye says the 720p looks pretty much the same and seeing as it's the only TV in my house, I'll never notice the difference if I buy it.

However, as I've been thinking this through, I'm trying to figure out if it's because the 1080p in my price range (<1200) are just "meh," or if it's a matter of the video sources aren't high quality enough for me to really notice a difference. Say three years down the read, will there be a noticeable difference between a 42" 720p and 1080p at similar prices? Might also be important to know I primarily watch movies, sports, and play the Wii (which doesn't use 1080p anyways).

The issue here isn't buyer's remorse here. I've seen the two TVs in action and know I'll like the TV. I'm just trying to figure out if the similar viewing quality is a source issue and if it'll take some time for the current crop of 1080ps to really show their advantage over 720p?

Will I get a crick in my neck from watching a TV over the fireplace?

adverb — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 09:43:37 -0800

My wife wants to get a plasma/LCD TV and mount it over the fireplace. That just seems way too high to watch comfortably, though. Does anyone have any experience with a TV mounted that high? Will the kids be able to watch it if they're sitting on the floor? Does angling it help?

I want a 40 + inch HDTV that wont break the bank!

crewshell — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 05:27:28 -0800

LCD - PLASMA TV FILTER: I am in the market for a Flat Screen HDTV. I would LIKE to stay at 1000 bucks or below (I could probably move up to 1300 if the extra cash brought in a big leap in quality). What is the best option on the market for a 40+ inch LCD or Plasma TV for around 1000 bucks? Ive read alot about Vizio which seems decent... but I was curious about other options out there. The Olevia brand is also in the price range but I can not find a single mainstream review on one of these units that isn't over two years old... Any suggestions / help is welcome!

I will be hooking the TV up to standard Def Satelite until I upgrade my DVR to HD.

Cheers.

TV Fell and Went "BOOM!"

unclejeffy — Sat, 03 Nov 2007 06:20:40 -0800

My new Plasma TV fell off the wall and shattered. Am I screwed? I bought a 50" Vizio "Jive" Plasma TV from Sears (on my Sears card) a couple of weeks ago. Loved it. I bought an articulated wall mount from a company on eBay. Their posting said:

"Ideal For The Complete Vizio LCD/Plasma Series: You Are Bidding On A Brand New Cantilever Adjustable Tilting/Swiveling Wall Mount Bracket with extending arm for LCD/Plasma TV's 32-50"

Fair enough. I mounted it exactly to their specifications, and it appeared to be holding up beautifully. Until.

This morning, I was under the TV, rerouting an HDMI cable when it fell off the way, hitting me in the head. It hit a bench seat that was under it, then fell face first on to the ground.

My wife and son, who happened to be in the room, helped me get up, then helped me lift the TV to an upright position. Sure enough, it's shattered.

So, my question, as I'm sure you can guess, is "Am I screwed?" I've already contacted the eBay seller (they touted great customer service and their perfect feedback rating in the post) and Sears to see if there's anything either of them can or will do. My insurance deductible is more than the value of the TV, so that's not an option.

Please, friends, help me get back to vegetating in front of my glorious HDTV!

Looking to donate blood plasma in the greater Seattle area. Where do I go?

Anonymous — Sat, 22 Sep 2007 05:09:56 -0800

Looking to donate blood plasma in the greater Seattle area. Where do I go? Running a little low on fund right now and wanted to donate plasma to earn a few extra bucks. Can anyone provide some insight as to what centers/hospitals around Seattle and Bellevue will pay for plasma?

Split screen plasma newbie ISO video expert

cdmwebs — Mon, 16 Jul 2007 11:36:31 -0800

We have 50" plasma display in our waiting room. It displays television (via plain old cable.) I want to split it into sections - left 1/3, right 2/3 and bottom crawl. I want to show the TV feed in the right 2/3 and put marketing information in the remaining space. How do I get there from here?? Bonus points for Linux!