Liquid crystal display (LCD) technology may sound exotic, but in reality we use it every day. LCD technology is utilized in stereos, computer monitors, microwave ovens, digital clocks and calculators. Today, the technology is also being used in high-tech flat screen TV sets and video monitors that produce incredibly clear images.

LCD screens function by obstructing light. Within the screen, the ligquid crystals are contained between two sections of polarized glass. The crystals control the brightness of light as it's transmitted through the glass. An electrical charge is applied, and the crystals react to it, rotating to allow the light to pass through the sections of glass. The LCD display is made up of pixels and is illuminated by a florescent bulb that sends white light through the glass panes. Each pixel is split into red, green and blue sections that work together to produce a color image. One pixel can create about 16 million colors.

LCD televisions offer plenty of benefits to viewers. They offer superior brightness and contrast capability ? far better than anything offered by traditional cathode ray TV sets. Flat screen LCD sets also feature a 160 degree viewing angle, so that watchers will see everything from just about any location in the room. Because the contrast quality is so good, viewers don't have to worry about turning off all the lights in the room to get a good picture. Lamps don't produce a glare on an LCD flatscreen set.

Another bonus with an LCD set is that most models come equipped with tuners and speakers. All you have to do is plug the set in, and it's ready to go. The tuners and speakers are built in, which means no extra components like set-top boxes or receivers are required. This makes the LCD set perfect for homes that don't have much space to spare for a big TV that requires extraneous equipment.

LCD sets are equipped to display high definition television as well as standard television. LCD sets can also serve as computer monitors and all-around video monitors. They can handle any kind of video format, and most come equipped with inputs for S-video, component video, and composite video. Most LCDs offer about 60,000 hours (or about twenty years) of viewing, making them a good investment. They last longer than plasma sets. The bulb is a critical factor in the LCD set, as it's responsible for picture and color quality. With some sets, the bulb can easily be replaced. Other sets have bulbs that are built in to the LCD system, making matters more complicated when it's time to replace the light source. Before investing in one of these sets, check into brands and model types. It pays to do a little research prior to buying.