Plasma

Test Procedure

Two different brightness readings (16-position small area and full white) were taken with each plasma TV set to its “standard”, “normal”, or “daylight” mode. These readings were summed and averaged. Two different contrast readings (ANSI checkerboard and small area white-onblack) were also taken. The checkerboard white and black readings were summed and averaged.

Results and Conclusions

Average white levels while operating in nighttime or cinema modes ranged from 50 nits to 136 nits across the test plasma TVs. For comparison, workable levels for viewing a CRT TV range from 70 to 80 nits with controlled ambient lighting, and 48 to 55 nits in a completely darkened room.

Using factory settings, peak contrast ratios ranged as high as 3000:1, while average (ANSI) contrast ratios averaged over 500:1 for the group. Even with low-level cinema or nighttime viewing modes activated, average (ANSI) contrast ratios measured from 238:1 to 576:1, which are well above the performance of the reference CRT monitor.

Consumer Perspective

The five plasma TVs tested provide more than adequate brightness and contrast for viewing TV programs in both daytime and nighttime operation. The black levels are close to those found on CRT HDTV sets. Combined with high contrast levels, plasma TVs provide an enjoyable viewing experience for everything from sports programming to movies.