An interesting factor to consider when planning your purchase
of a new plasma television is altitude. Plasma TVs use millions
of tiny, gas-filled chambers to create a picture. When you move
to higher altitudes, the constant pressure in the chambers and
the now lower ambient air pressure create a buzzing sound
reminiscent of a halogen beer sign. This buzz is a combined
result of the increased power consumption necessary to
overcome the pressure differential, and the increase in fan use
because the high power consumption heats the unit. This
change in noise is really the only difference between operating
a plasma television at sea level and one operating at extreme
(above 6,000 ft) altitudes.
This noise increase provides a hint as to the more serious
reason to avoid using a plasma television: lifespan. The life
of a plasma screen is dependent on how hard it works
through the course of its life. Operating these televisions at
altitudes above what they were designed for puts an excess
strain on their various components. Using a plasma TV above
6,000 ft. is more likely to annoy you with additional noise than
anything else, but it's a bad choice in the long run.
This pressure change is why airplanes chose to use LCD
screens over plasma screens on flights that offer video
entertainment. LCDs use crystals instead of gas filled
chambers, and are thus indifferent to altitude changes. That
said, there are manufacturers who have designed plasma
televisions for use at altitudes up to 9,000 ft. You'll pay for this
upgraded design, so you must decide if the price difference is
worth it. So, check the elevation information for your city to
determine if this should concern you, because it's not always
obvious. Denver is just under the 6,000 ft. window for operating
a regular plasma screen. You may see a slight difference in the
lifespan of the unit here when compared to an identical
television located closer to sea level, but this is likely to be very
small. If you're not sure what your local elevation is, or if you're
close, but still below the 6,000 ft. recommended ceiling, do
some firsthand research. Go to an electronics store and test
out the various plasma TVs on display. Listen closely for a
buzzing or humming. You may find that your local air pressure
is low enough to affect the performance of a plasma unit.
So you've done your research and planning, and you're ready to
buy your plasma television? Now make sure you check your
local conditions and, if necessary, invest in a high altitude
plasma unit.
Article written by Jakob Culver |
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