The reason why we have had bulky, oversized television sets for decades while plasma TVs are so thin lies in the technology used. Traditional television sets relied on tubes to produce the pictures, and these tubes had limitations in terms of size. The size of the tubes depended on the amount of screen space the picture was expected to fill.
Demands create research.
However, it was only when people started demanding larger screens, moving away from the typical 20-inch size, that the technology was put to the test. Manufacturers were willing to meet these demands but faced a problem. The dimensions of tubes were fixed, so if a bigger screen was desired, a larger picture had to be projected, requiring a larger tube. Consequently, the size of the television set was directly dependent on the number of components that needed to be fitted inside. Larger tubes meant larger cases. Considering the average size of a 20-inch television set that used tube technology, one can imagine the size of the case required to project a picture for a 32-inch, 42-inch, or even larger screen.
Contrastingly, a plasma TV does not require tubes to project the picture. Due to its technology, a plasma TV can be accommodated in a very slim case. Instead of utilizing tubes to project images onto a large screen, the plasma TV functions by illuminating the phosphorous coating at different intervals to generate the images indicated by the signal. Plasma TVs create images through a combination of noble gases (like neon and xenon) sandwiched between two glass panels. Electrical currents stimulate these gases, causing them to emit ultraviolet light. This light then excites phosphors on the screen, producing colored pixels that form the image you see.
As a result, plasma TV screens need minimal space apart from the area for the screen and the phosphorous. In reality, the entire units are thin enough to be mounted – offering a viewing experience that was previously only imaginable with tube-type television technology. This also implies that the thickness of the screen can remain almost constant, even as the width and height of the screen significantly increase.
Price Range
Fifteen years ago, around the early to mid-2000s, plasma TVs were considered premium products and were generally more expensive compared to other types of TVs, such as CRT (cathode ray tube) and early LCD (liquid crystal display) models. Prices for a mid-range 42-inch plasma TV, for example, could range from $2,000 to $3,000 or even higher.
In contrast, by 2024, the landscape for plasma TVs has changed significantly. Plasma TVs have largely been phased out of production, with manufacturers shifting their focus to LED and OLED technologies. As a result, finding new plasma TVs for sale in 2024 would be rare, and any available models would likely be refurbished or used units. Prices for these older plasma TVs can vary widely based on factors such as size, brand, condition, and features, but they are generally much lower than their original prices.
Can you still buy a Plasma TV
For context, a mid-range 42-inch LED TV in 2024 might typically range from $300 to $800, depending on the brand and features. OLED TVs, which offer superior picture quality but come at a higher price point, could be significantly more expensive, ranging from $1,000 to several thousand dollars for a similar-sized model.
One point to consider.
The lifespan of a plasma TV typically ranges from 7 to 10 years with normal usage. However, this can vary based on factors such as usage patterns, environmental conditions, and the specific model of the TV. Plasma TVs are susceptible to screen burn-in, where static images displayed for extended periods can leave permanent imprints on the screen. Proper care, such as avoiding static images for prolonged periods and using screen savers, can help prolong the lifespan of a plasma TV.
Can you still buy a plasma tv?
Previously, there were several companies that were well-known for manufacturing high-quality plasma TVs. Panasonic and Pioneer were often considered the leading competitors in the plasma TV technology field. Panasonic, in particular, gained a reputation for its exceptional picture quality, reliability, and innovative features in the plasma TV market.
Pioneer, although no longer involved in TV production, was highly esteemed for its Elite series of plasma TVs, which were widely regarded as some of the finest in terms of picture quality and performance.
However, it is important to note that starting from 2024, plasma TVs are no longer being produced, and the market has predominantly shifted towards LED and OLED technologies. When purchasing a TV today, brands like Samsung, LG, Sony, and TCL are among the top contenders, offering a diverse range of LED and OLED TVs with various features and price points. Among these brands, LG stands out for its OLED TVs, which are highly acclaimed for their picture quality and performance. Ultimately, the most suitable TV brand for you will depend on your specific preferences, budget, and desired features.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, the evolution from old tube TVs to sleek plasma screens represents not just a change in size, but a transformation in viewing experience and technological advancement. While old tube TVs were bulky and limited in size, plasma TVs offer larger, more immersive displays that enhance entertainment and multimedia consumption. The shift towards plasma screens signifies a move towards modernity, where size is not just a matter of physical dimensions, but a reflection of the progress and innovation driving the entertainment industry forward.
Furthermore, As of my last update in January 2022, there weren’t any immediate plans to replace LED TVs. LED (light-emitting diode) technology has been dominant in television displays for its energy efficiency, picture quality, and durability. However, the technology landscape is always evolving, and new advancements could potentially emerge in the future. Emerging technologies like OLED (organic light-emitting diode) and MicroLED are already offering enhanced picture quality and flexibility, but it’s uncertain whether they will completely replace LED TVs or coexist alongside them. Ultimately, consumer demand, technological breakthroughs, and market trends will determine the future trajectory of television display technologies.
