If you're in the market for a new monitor, there are a few things to consider before you start. Perhaps the most important factor is matching the monitor to your normal operating screen resolution. In the old days, monitors were fixed at certain frequencies and resolutions (LCD panels still are), but these days most CRT monitors will run at a variety of frequencies and resolutions. But even though a multi-scan monitor will function at different frequencies and resolutions, some CRT monitors function better at certain resolutions and strain in order to run at others, which shortens their life. A more expensive monitor designed to run best at 1600 x 1200 won't look quite as good if you run it at 1024 x 768. Unfortunately, many monitor manufacturers tend to highlight their maximums and downplay their optimum settings. In general, most monitors are designed to operate at peak efficiency at about 85Hz. If a monitor data sheet gives you a wide range of possible resolutions at different frequencies, look at the 85Hz values to get an idea of what its optimal settings should be.

• 85Khz Class = 1024 x 768 @ 85Hz
• 95Khz Class = 1280 x 1024 @ 85Hz
• 107Khz Class = 1600 x 1200 @ 85Hz
• 115Khz Class = 1600 x 1200 @ 92Hz
• 125Khz Class = 1856 x 1392 @ 85Hz

If you normally run at 1600 x 1200 resolutions, then you should look for a monitor in the 107 or 115 Khz class. Using a lower class monitor will require overdriving it, which will not only give a generally lower-quality image; but may also reduce the life of the monitor. On the other hand, if you normally run at 1024 x 768 or lower, then buying a higher-class monitor and running it at lower resolutions can produce moiré patterns and give you less than optimal performance (not to mention the fact that you are also wasting money).

BY

GUY WRIGHT