PC Hardware in a Nutshell, 3rd Edition

Choosing a CRT Monitor

Use the following guidelines when choosing a CRT monitor:

• Remember that a monitor is a long-term purchase. Even with heavy use, a high-quality monitor can be expected to last five years or more, whereas inexpensive monitors may fail within a year or two. We have several 17-inch monitors here that were purchased with one system and have been moved to two or three successor systems over the years. Good large monitors are inexpensive enough now that it makes sense to buy for the long term.

• Make sure the monitor is big enough, but not too big. Verify that your desk or workstation furniture can accommodate the new monitor. Many people have excitedly carried home a new 19-inch or 21-inch monitor only to find that it literally won’t fit where it needs to. Check physical dimensions and weight carefully before you buy. Large monitors commonly weigh 50 lbs. or more, and some exceed 100 lbs. That said, if you find yourself debating between buying one monitor and another that’s the next size up, go with the larger monitor. But note that if your decision is between a low-end larger monitor and a high-end smaller one for about the same price, you may well be happier with the smaller monitor. A $200 17-inch monitor beats a $200 19-inch monitor every time.

• Avoid reduced-depth monitors whenever possible. Space constraints may force you to choose a short-neck model. Just be aware that you will pay more for such a monitor, and its image quality will be lower.

• Stick with good name ...