Technology and Innovation

The 42-inch 16:9 CMP4121 is certainly versatile, handling both computer and video applications. Its native resolution is 1,024 x 1,024 pixels, but it can go as high as UXGA (1,600 x 1,200). Meanwhile, it can display video up to HDTV standards. There’s a variety of video and computer inputs, and a built-in 8W stereo amplifier for audiophiles. Worried about it burning out too quickly? Well, don’t. Hitachi is touting a bunch of screensavingtechniques, and promising a lifespan “16 times” that of normal produets. The display uses cutting-edge ALIS (Altérnate Lighting of Surfaces) plasma panels, and has a healthy contrast ratio of 700:1. All this, yet an overall depth of less than 9cm.

Working in HDTV is exciting, however, HDV’s heavy compression and limited 1440x 1080 resolution can cause problems with quality and editing. Intensity eliminates these problems using direct HDMI capture from the camera image sensor, at full 1920 x 1080 HDTV resolution and uncompressed video quality.

Moderate ($500 to $1,000)
A CRT-based HDTV would be ideal in this price range, and many of this type of HDTVs can be bought from a litany of major manufacturers (see the Manufacturer Listing). Prices on many 1080i widescreen CRTs have come down, and a widescreen TV is better than a standard, 4:3 model, which is the most common.
Low-end professional LCDs generally start around $800, but they are only available in SD, not HD, in this price range.
Pro ($1,000 and up)
For around $1,000, JVC offers a 10-inch multi-format monitor, the DT-V100CGU, which supports 1080i/p, 720p and SD video (with optional accessory).
In this price range, a consumer-grade 1080p LCD HDTV might be a good investment. There are also some excellent plasma HDTVs, as well, though 1080p plasma displays are outside this price range. Watching HD that you shot on a 37-inch and larger LCD may be great at home, but taking it on set or in the field may be too awkward.
That’s why a portable, professional monitor is ideal for viewing HD and HDV footage, but be prepared to shell out at least $3,000 for an HD display. There are also HD SDI-equipped monitors for an additional price. This is an ideal connection to have if you own one of the more expensive HD camcorders that have HD