Buzz
When you purchase a plasma TV, you naturally anticipate superior picture quality. However, several factors can hinder it. Inadequate cables, outdated devices (such as VCRs), and even unfavorable placement can all diminish the picture quality of an otherwise excellent TV. With some adjustments and calibration, outlined in this article, you can greatly enhance your viewing experience with minimal effort.
Assessing Your Setup
Evaluate your setup. If you've recently acquired a new TV, you may discover that your old cables and devices are insufficient for optimal performance. They may be too outdated or incompatible with your HDTV. To achieve the best picture quality, invest in HDMI cables that can also connect to your audio system. Additionally, consider the impact of older DVD players, VCRs, and other devices on picture quality. While some may require replacement due to age, others may only need settings adjustments to improve picture quality.
Upgrading Your Configuration
Enhance your external devices. For optimal picture quality when watching DVDs, ensure your DVD player is capable of delivering high-quality output. Look for features like progressive scanning or a premium up-conversion processor. Additionally, consider upgrading to a Blu-Ray or HD-DVD player. Configure your DVD player or cable/satellite box to output a 16x9 image for improved picture quality, and use HDMI or component cables to connect your DVD player to your TV.
Upgrade your video cables. To fully appreciate the high-definition capabilities of your plasma TV, use quality video cables capable of handling HD signals. HDMI and Component cables are ideal for transmitting HD signals from your satellite box or cable to your TV. Avoid overspending on cables, as higher prices do not necessarily translate to better performance.
Maintain cleanliness. Fingerprints, smudges, dust, and hair on the screen can diminish picture quality. Regularly clean your TV screen with a soft microfiber cloth, preferably once a week. For tougher stains, consider using a TV cleaning kit, which typically includes a special cleaning solution and cloth or glove.
Adjust lighting conditions. Bright lights, especially fluorescent overhead lights or sunlight, can wash out the picture on your plasma TV. Dim the room lights and, if possible, block sunlight by closing blinds or placing the TV in a room without windows.
Customizing Settings
Invest in a Digital Video Calibration Disk. These discs, also known as setup discs, offer guided optimization processes to enhance picture quality professionally. Simply play the disc in your DVD player, follow the instructions, and complete the settings process. Products like the Disney WOW: World of Wonder DVD ($18) provide comprehensive tutorials and guides for picture optimization.
Select the appropriate picture mode. Utilizing built-in presets created by professionals can streamline the process of achieving your desired picture quality. These presets are designed to enhance your viewing experience based on factors such as ambient lighting and the type of content being viewed, including:
- Standard: Normal brightness, contrast, and sharpness levels
- Vivid/Dynamic: Increased contrast, brightness, and sharpness
- Cinema/Movie: Optimized for movies with the image intended by creators
- Sports: Enhances image clarity for fast-paced action
- Game: Reduces input lag for gaming, sacrificing some picture quality
Adjust the Contrast. Finding the right balance between Contrast and Brightness can significantly enhance picture quality. Start by setting the Contrast to around 50% and choose a bright image with white elements, such as clouds in the sky. Be cautious not to set the Contrast too high, as it can reduce the lifespan of your TV and result in white blotches in bright areas.
Adjust the Brightness. To achieve optimal brightness, select a dark image with dark elements, like a black jacket against a dark background. If dark areas lack detail and appear as mere silhouettes, increase the Brightness. Low brightness settings can flatten dark images and diminish detail and nuance.
Additional Tips
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Opting for 'high-end' (premium brand) cables isn't necessary. Normal grade cables suffice, although it's advisable to avoid the cheapest options. Remember, your picture quality is only as good as your cable or satellite service. TVs have limited capacity to enhance poor signals.
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Most settings should hover around the midpoint of the adjustment range, including Tint and Sharpness.
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When manually adjusting settings, prioritize natural-looking black and white levels (deep black and bright cool white).
Cautions
- Avoid leaving still images on a plasma screen for prolonged periods to prevent image burn-in.
- Never use abrasive cleansers on your screen, especially those intended for other surfaces like windows. Apply screen-specific solution to a cloth rather than spraying it directly on the screen.
