Screen Hardware

Types of Screen

Two kinds of screen are available: the newer LCD flat-panel screen and the older CRT screen.

LCD screens have certain benefits when compared with CRT screens:

• LCDs take up less desk space than CRT screens and are easier to adjust owing to their smaller footprint, lighter weight and decreased bulk;
• Flat LCD screens are less susceptible to glare than the generally convex CRT creens;
• LCD screens are not affected by flicker or ‘swim’;
• LCDs increase the total screen viewing area – there is no loss of image quality at the boundaries of the screen as there can be with CRT screens;
• LCDs use less power and produce less heat than equivalent CRTs;
• LCDs provide better screen privacy as they have a narrower viewing angle than CRT screens.

Although LCD screens are generally considered better than CRT screens, some LCD screens, particularly older models, may have some limitations:

• Moving images may be displayed at a slower speed, which can distort images;
• Screen contrast ratios may be lower than in CRT screens;
• Colour may be less accurate than in CRT screens.

Therefore certain users, such as graphic designers, may prefer the superior colour accuracy, response time and quality of CRT screens.

Important features of a screen include:

• A screen size that is appropriate to the requirements of the individual user and the task being performed. For example, employees involved in graphics or design work may require larger or dual screens;
• Easily adjustable positions, including height, swivel and tilt, so that the user can maintain a comfortable work posture and reduce sources of glare and reflection; Easily adjustable brightness and contrast. These settings may need to be adjusted in response to the variability
• in workstation illuminance throughout the day; Sharp and clear screen images; No perceived flicker or jitter of the display image; Easily readable characters;
• A screen surface that is clean and dust free.

Download the full computer guidelines brochure here.