1. Understanding 3D TVs
3D TVs employ screen technology that enables the creation of three-dimensional effects, allowing viewers to perceive depth as well as height and width of the image, providing a sense of realism akin to real-world objects.
The technology behind the 3D effect is called stereoscopy. Traditional 3D TVs (and 3D movies) operate by displaying two separate frames, one for the right eye and one for the left eye, which are then combined using specialized glasses. Additionally, another technology known as autostereoscopic or auto 3D generates three-dimensional images directly on the screen without the need for specialized glasses.
2. Various 3D Technologies
3D technology is divided into 2 types: active 3D and passive 3D.
2.1. Active 3D Technology
Active 3D technology utilizes glasses with active shutters, made of liquid crystal and powered by batteries, to display continuous frames, one for the left eye and one for the right eye, repeatedly to create a 3D image.
However, there is a drawback: active 3D glasses are bulky, heavy, and expensive compared to other types of glasses. Users are restricted in movement while watching, and the viewing angle is narrow. Nevertheless, active 3D technology offers high-quality Full HD imagery with vivid clarity.
2.2. Passive 3D Technology (Polarized)
Passive 3D technology operates by simultaneously displaying both left and right frames. Each frame passes through a different polarizing filter, aligning the light waves in a single direction. When these waves hit the 3D glasses, they counteract other polarizing filters, allowing only half of the image to be filtered for each eye. Thus, the left eye perceives only one half of the image, and the right eye sees the other half.
The drawback is that the image quality of passive 3D technology is not perfect. This technology employs primitive techniques that do not allow for depth perception like active 3D technology, resulting in blurry imagery.
On the contrary, polarized glasses used in passive 3D technology are very affordable, lightweight, and do not require charging, making passive 3D a current trend.
Is Buying a 3D TV Worth It?
Essentially, 3D TVs offer viewers an immersive visual experience, making objects in movies and programs feel real.
However, 3D content sources are still limited and not widely available, coupled with relatively low image quality. Therefore, investing a large sum in high-end devices like 3D TVs is not advisable. If desired, you can wait until 3D content becomes richer and the prices of 3D TV products cool down.
So, the article above has just introduced you to what a 3D TV is. Hopefully, after reading this article, readers will have a better understanding of 3D TVs and current 3D technologies. Besides, 4K TVs are also highly favored nowadays, so learn more about 4K TVs here.