Monitors
Our visunext product experts will be happy to help you!
The projected image is output in a format (aspect ratio) specified by the projector. The format is also determined by the resolution of the projector (see also the entry "Resolution"). The screen format is usually selected on the basis of the format of the beamer image. The most common formats are 4:3, 16:9 and 16:10.
The resolution of a projector is the maximum number of image points (pixels) that a projector can display based on its naturally existing technology, i.e. without conversion or cropping of the image. The native resolution is the number of pixels that a projector physically has to display the image. A projector usually interpolates a resolution when it receives an image signal with a higher resolution than the native one. If this is the case, there may be a lack of image detail or general blurring in the displayed image. If a projector receives an image signal with a lower resolution than the native, it also interpolates, it scales the image up to the native resolution, calculates corresponding additional pixels, if possible without changing the image information. The disadvantage here is that although the image is displayed larger than fed, the original individual pixels may become much more visible as they are multiplied by the conversion.
4K:
4K refers to the resolution of 3840 x 2160 or Ultra High Definition Television (UHDTV). This resolution corresponds to 4 times the resolution of Full HD. To record films with this resolution, special cameras are needed that can record at around 8 megapixels (4K).
Full HD:
The term Full HD is used to describe devices that can physically display or output HDTV signals in full (1920 x 1080 pixels).
1080p:
1080p is the specification of the vertical picture lines. Among other things, it refers to the resolution 1920 x 1080. The "p" in this case means full frames, so all picture lines are displayed simultaneously.
1080i:
1080i is the specification of the vertical picture lines. The "i" in this case means fields. This signal is usually displayed interpolated (e.g. by devices with a 1280 x 720 HDready resolution). The interpolation digitally adds pixels, but also offers a slight blurring. In contrast, 1080p playback uses full frames.
Digital connection for the transmission of picture & sound. Necessary for high-resolution picture quality (HDTV). Since HDMI 1.4 (High Speed) suitable for transmission of 3D content in Full HD. For high-resolution picture quality in UHD, 4K or HDR, the connection via HDMI 2.0a and higher is suitable. HDMI 2.1 or higher should be used from 120Hz refresh rate in 4K.
VGA:
The VGA connector is a 15-pin connector for analogue image transmission. It is also called DSub15 and is often found on notebooks and PCs. Compared to the other analogue connections, it offers good picture quality. It can be screwed to the input or output device and can be adapted to YUV with a suitable configuration.
DisplayPort:
The DisplayPort connection is a VESA-standardised connection for the transmission of image and sound data. In addition to HDCP encryption, DPCP is also supported. Due to its compact size, the connection is most commonly used in notebooks. An extra small variant is the MiniDisplayPort, which is used especially with Apple devices.
DVI:
DVI (Digital Visual Interface) is an interface for the transmission of video data. Only analogue signals can be transmitted via DVi-A, only digital signals via DVI-D and both types of signals via DVI-I.
USB:
USB (Universal Serial Bus) is used to control and manage the projector (USB-B). With some business devices, office files and images can also be presented directly with a USB stick or a mouse can be connected via the USB input (USB-A).
Toslink:
The Toslink connection is an optical signal connection that works on an optical fibre basis. It is used for the digital transmission of audio signals. The optical design offers a lower susceptibility to interference from external magnetic and electrical influences. The connection is mostly used in the area of DVD / Blu-ray players and comparable devices in connection with an AV receiver, if these work with dts or Dolby Digital signals.
YUV:
The YUV connection, also called Y Cb/Pb Cr/Pr or component connection, is an analogue video connection with three channels (light intensity and two colour channels). Qualitatively, it is the best analogue video connection.
Component cable:
The YUV connector transmits analogue signals over three cables (Y=black and white UV=colours). YUV is used to transmit HDTV and is compatible with Cinch, for example.
S-Video:
The S-Video connection is also called S-VHS or Hosiden connection. Compared to the Cinch video connection, it works with two channels (brightness/colour). In terms of quality, it is somewhat better than the Cinch video connection, but there are also limitations. These can be explained by the susceptibility of the signal, which is reflected in picture distortions, for example.
Cinch:
The cinch video connection is also called composite connection. To make it easier to recognise, it is usually sheathed in yellow. Since the transmission is only via one channel, the picture quality is on a low level.
D-Sub15:
The VGA connector is a 15-pin connector for image transmission on an analogue basis. It is also called DSub15 and is often found on notebooks and PCs. Compared to the other analogue connectors, it offers good picture quality. It can be screwed to the input or output device and can be adapted to YUV with a suitable configuration.
RS232:
The RS232 interface can be used to control or manage the projector.
Mini Jack:
With a single-pin Mini Jack, mono audio signals can be transmitted, with a two-pin stereo audio signals and with a three-pin stereo audio signals and image data can be transmitted.
Scart:
Scart is a connector that can be used to transmit analogue audio and video signals. It is compatible with other analogue connections such as RCA or S-Video.
ARC:
The audio return channel, also called ARC or audio return channel, was introduced with HDMI version 1.4 to reduce the amount of cabling between HDMI components. The audio return channel runs via the existing HDMI cable. Therefore, an additional cable for the sound no longer needs to be connected. However, both devices must support ARC. All audio file formats that are also transmitted via the SPDIF interface can be transmitted via the audio return channel. These include Dolby Digital, Digital Theatre Sound and PCM audio. As an example, a connection between a TV (including receiver) and an AV receiver could be made via an HDMI cable. The sound from the TV is fed back via the HDMI cable. Previously, an additional digital cable (coaxial or Tos-Link) was required for the audio signals.
What is important when buying a PC monitor?
This depends very much on what you are looking for in a monitor. For example, do you want to buy a monitor that displays PC games in high resolution and has a good response time? Or, on the other hand, do you need several PC monitors for your office space for office applications? We explain what you should look for before buying a monitor.
Screen size: How many inches?
The screen diagonal determines the size of your monitor. It is given in inches ("). The following applies: The larger the inch value, the larger the screen area of the monitor.
Monitors with screen diagonals of 24″ to 27″ are popular. Converted into centimetres, this corresponds to screen diagonals of 60 cm and 68.5 cm. Screens of this size are universal: for most applications on the home computer or in business, these screen diagonals are perfectly adequate.
However, if you work with several programmes and want to have as many programme windows and widgets as possible clearly in view at the same time, we recommend larger screen diagonals of over 27″, for example 32″ (82 cm). With a PC monitor with a large screen diagonal, you can also keep an overview when editing videos or pictures.
The most popular screen diagonals for monitors
Our tip:
The larger the screen, the further away you should sit. An ideal viewing distance for a 24″ monitor is about one metre.
Monitor Panel Type: TN, VA, IPS
The type of panel is probably one of the most important selection criteria when looking for a suitable PC monitor. This is because it has a direct influence on the image display and ultimately also on whether a monitor is suitable for the intended use.
To avoid confusion: TFT and LCD are not panel types, but display technologies. They are used in almost all monitors. LED is a backlighting technology that is also used in all monitors except OLED screens.
However, a TFT LCD screen with LED backlighting can use one of three panel types: TN (Twisted Nematic), VA (Vertical Alignment) or IPS (In-Plane Switching).
The difference between these panel types is based on the orientation of the liquid crystals in an LCD panel. The respective different orientations simultaneously influence several properties of a monitor: some negatively, others positively.
Strengths and weaknesses of TN, VA and IPS
Feature | TN | VA | IPS |
Contrast | low to high | very high | high |
Colour accuracy | low | very high | high |
Viewing-angle stability | acceptable to good | very good | very high |
Power consumption | low | moderate | high |
Response time | very fast | slow | low to fast |
Monitor panel types and their applications
Screen resolution and format: From Full HD to 4K
The screen resolution of a PC monitor is closely linked to its aspect ratio. For example, a Full HD monitor (1920 x 1080) has an aspect ratio of 16:9, a 4K-monitor (4096 x 2160) and a WQHD-monitor (2560 x 1440) likewise. A monitor with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 (WQXGA), on the other hand, has a slightly higher aspect ratio of 16:10.
This has to do with the fact that the format of a monitor is adapted to its native, i.e. optimal, resolution. Put more simply: the ratio of picture to frame must be right. Because in this way the proportions and the quality of the image are preserved.
Popular screen resolutions and their format
Resolution | Aspect ratio |
1920 x 1080 Full HD | 16:9 |
1920 x 1200 WUXGA | 16:10 |
3840 x 2160 UHD | 16:9 |
4096 x 2160 4K | 16:9 |
2560 x 1600 WQXGA | 16:10 |
Of course, you can also play a higher resolution than the native one on any monitor, provided your graphics card supports this setting. However, we do not recommend this. A higher resolution on a screen that is not designed for it can, under certain circumstances, result in the font and symbols on the desktop, for example, appearing too small and possibly blurred. This tires the eyes and often leads to headaches.
In addition to the formats mentioned above, we also have monitors in special formats in our range, for example the 21:9 format. Special formats offer a larger work surface: large tables, several tools and application windows can now be clearly arranged on a single screen. A practical alternative to the two-screen solution.
Ergonomics: Comfortable and gentle on the body
The term ergonomics is mainly known in connection with an optimal and, at the same time, a health- and body-friendly furnishing of the workplace. However, ergonomic design also plays a major role outside the office.
Ergonomic design is especially important for monitors: a height-adjustable and tiltable monitor can be ideally adjusted to your eye level. This ensures a healthy posture and prevents neck and back pain. With a well-aligned monitor, you also avoid eyestrain.
A height-adjustable monitor is a wonderful addition to your notebook. On the one hand, you have the possibility to set up a PC screen in your office or home in a suitable way, and on the other hand, you remain mobile with your notebook.
Our tipp:
Ensure a straight posture when working at the computer. A height-adjustable monitor can only compensate for a limited height difference. Therefore, we recommend that you also adjust the height of your desk and office chair accordingly.
Connections: DVI, HDMI, DisplayPort and USB-C
A modern monitor usually has several connections. The most common is HDMI (High-Definition Media Interface), followed by DVI (Digital Visual Interface) and DisplayPort. Depending on the manufacturer, a monitor can also be equipped with several connections of one type, for example with two HDMI inputs.
Technology for gamers: G-Sync and FreeSync
Monitors with G-Sync or FreeSync are the first choice for gamers: these technologies synchronise the refresh rate of a monitor with the frame rate of a PC game. In this way, they eliminate annoying tearing (tearing of the image) and annoying jerkiness in the image. Nothing stands in the way of smooth gaming.