A Television Guide

Television A telecommunications device that receives a signal, either analog or digital, and coverts the signal to picture and sound. While the television may not be the device you think of when someone mentions telecommunications, it has been a popular medium for communication for homes, businesses and other public instructions since the 1930's.

Television has come a long way since the early picture tube models. With so many choices out there, how do you know what kind of television to choose Do you want HD, LCD, plasma, or flat screen Do you need RCA cables or HMDI Do you have a place to connect your Xbox 360 or Playstation 3

First things first, decide what is important to you when viewing shows on your television. If it's superior picture quality you want, you might want consider purchasing a HD, or high definition, capable television. High definition television offers a higher resolution picture than standard television, especially when accompanied by high definition programming. You can choose standard HD, plasma or LCD (liquid crystal display). Each of these types of television has pros and cons, so research you choice carefully before choosing which set to buy.

Secondly, if you are a gamer or avid DVD fan, make sure that the set you choose includes additional hookups for the peripheral equipment that you want to add. The most common connection type for peripheral equipment is RCA. These color-coded cables allow almost any device to be connected to most any newer model television. However, a newer type of connection available is called HDMI. These connectors provide you with the very best quality picture available and enhance the high-resolution capabilities of plasma and LCD HD television.

And lastly, sound. What good is having a high definition television set without premium sound quality to go along with it Televisions today come in a wide range of audio capabilities, both internal and connections for external speaker systems. Most televisions, while better than they were ten years ago, still lack in internal audio capabilities, though most are packed full of options to enhance external speaker functionality. If premium audio is a paramount for you, make sure that you fully research the audio capabilities, both internal and external, of the television you wish to purchase.

All in all, purchasing a new television may look complex and expensive. It doesn't have to be. Research all the available options when it comes to picture, audio, and peripheral component hookups and then compare them. There are many retailers and e-tailers that have great deals when it comes to television purchases. Also, don't be afraid to purchase an off brand set. Most televisions are of comparable quality, so don't feel as though you need to pay the premium name brand price when a lesser known brand will fit the bill at a steep discount. Make sure that you fully research all customer reviews for the television you want to purchase. Word of mouth and the personal experience of others is a great way to get an unbiased opinion of the television you want to purchase.