An Introduction to the 3D TV Explosion
September 19, 2011 by Paula V Bateman
Filed under TV
You've probably seen commercials recently promoting your local TV service provider's latest launch-3D channels--with a family happily watching 3D shows, each family member wearing a pair of the same dark glasses. These aren't just ordinary glasses-and they definitely aren't sunglasses: they are 3D glasses, giving you and your family access to the new world of 3D HDTV technology.
The best way to first experience 3D HDTV is to visit your local electronics store, as well as the electronics section of your favorite supercenter or department store. Ask to see a 3D-ready HDTV, and the salesperson will hand you a pair of "active shutter" 3D glasses. It's no problem if you wear prescription glasses or contacts--3D glasses are designed to comfortably fit over them. Most 3D-ready HDTVs on the market today require active shutter 3D glasses to create the full HD 3D affect. Essentially, 3D technology allows you see a third dimension-depth-instead of only seeing height and width (called 2D), which regular HDTV is limited to.
You are going to have to buy a number of active shutter 3D glasses because most 3D-ready HDTVs don't come with them. Be sure to buy enough 3D glasses to go around. Buy them for your guests as well as each child, parent and grandparent. Before you buy, be savvy and check out 3D-glasses web sites and on line shopping sources. There are great offers such as "Party Packs" that combine kids and adult sizes in addition to "buy three, get one free" packages.
After you have selected a brand of 3D-ready HDTV, you'll need to buy the same model of active shutter 3D glasses. When ordering your glasses, simply give the brand name and matching model number found on the back of your new TV. Also note that active shutter 3D glasses are powered by a small, coin-type, lithium ion battery or a rechargeable battery. The coin-type batteries last a long time-up to 70 hours of continuous viewing-and are widely available in drug stores, hardware stores, supercenters and on line. The rechargeable batteries are charged via a USB connector on the 3D glasses and can be charged from any USB port on a computer, power charger, the TV, etc.
A 3D-ready source box is another piece of equipment necessary for 3D home entertainment. The source box can be your kids' 3D video game player, a Blu-ray disc player or a 3D-ready set-up box from your TV service provider. Another piece of equipment that is a must is a high-speed HDMI cable that transmits 3D signals efficiently. HDMI cable is easily obtained via your TV service provider or electronics store. And of course, what you need most of all is 3D home entertainment content such 3D video games, Blu-ray 3D movies and exciting 3D HDTV channels.
By 2018, more than 64 million 3D-ready HDTVs are expected to have flown off the shelves. With this explosion in 3D-ready HDTV sales nationwide, 3D home entertainment-3D HDTV channels, 3D video games and Blu-ray 3D-compatible content--will be readily available and yours for the taking. So take advantage now so that you and your family can enjoy 3D-ready HDTV home entertainment with your 3D glasses!
Before you purchase glasses for your 3D TV, make sure you check out online sources where you can often find great deals on Samsung 3d glasses as well as glasses for other manufacturers like Sony, LG and Panasonic. You can often find 3d glasses for kids that are better for children and small adults as well.