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In this report: TV types; Image quality; Screen size; Screen shape; Connections; Features

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February 2006

Connections: Make sure you have all you need

You'll probably be connecting a number of devices to your TV, including a cable box or satellite receiver, DVD player, and maybe a digital video recorder. Make sure the TV you're considering has enough inputs, and the right kind, to accommodate all your gear.

Connections. One of the most important points to consider with any TV is the number of inputs it has. New sets have several different types of inputs that can handle varying levels of quality. That's because manufacturers have added new connections as higher-quality signals have become available. They've left the other inputs in place to work with older equipment. Using the appropriate input can improve the picture quality.

In order from most basic to best, the typical inputs are: Antenna/cable, or radio frequency (RF), inputs are the most basic, and they can be used with almost any video source. They're sometimes labeled as UHF/VHF. An RF input may be the only way to connect an antenna and some older cable boxes and VCRs. It's one of the only inputs (along with HDMI, see below) that carries both picture and sound. The other inputs all require separate audio connections (red and white RCA jacks with a single pin) for the sound. What it looks like: a threaded jack, with a single pin, that must be screwed in.

Composite-video inputs carry only the video signal, providing better picture quality than RF. These are often used to connect a VCR, cable box, camcorder, or game console. What it looks like: a yellow RCA jack with a single pin to pass video signals; often paired with red and white audio jacks.

S-video inputs split the video signal into two parts, color and luminance. This lets you take advantage of the superior picture quality from a satellite system, a DVD player, or a digital camcorder. What it looks like: a small, round jack with four tiny holes.

Component-video inputs split the video signal into three parts: two for color and one for luminance. This provides slightly better quality than S-video, most evident in color fidelity. They're often used with DVD players and high-definition satellite receivers and cable boxes. What it looks like: red, green, and blue RCA jacks.

DVI and HDMI inputs on some HDTVs provide a digital connection to digital devices such as DVD players, digital-cable boxes, and satellite receivers. DVI inputs carry only video; HDMI inputs carry audio and video on the same cable. The digital-to-digital connection may enhance picture quality, though that hasn't always been the case in our tests. These inputs may also allow the content providers to control your ability to record certain programming. What it looks like: DVI inputs are wide rectangular jacks with many pins; HDMI inputs are similar but smaller.

It's important to note that with an HD-ready TV, HD signals can be carried only by a component-video, DVI, or HDMI input. With an integrated HDTV, you can use those inputs or the antenna/cable (RF) input with an antenna.

Some TVs have front- or side-mounted composite-video or S-video inputs. These make it easy to connect a camcorder or video game without having to maneuver around to the rear of the set.

A VGA/SVGA input lets the TV double as a monitor for almost any computer. A DVI input is compatible with newer midrange computers.

Audio outputs let you direct a stereo TV's audio signal to a receiver or self-powered speakers. A headphone jack lets you listen without disturbing others.


	STEP 6:	Features