CRT Monitors

Where to find and buy
With the wide spread proliferation of TFT screens, it is easy to find CRT monitors for sale in local computer stores, internet retailers and even on internet auction sites.

Size
The first thing to remember is that the actual viewable screen size is smaller than the quoted screen size, so a 19″ monitor will actually only deliver an 18″ picture. These large CRT sets contain a lot of glass so are extremely heavy. You may want to bear this in mind when paying for delivery charges!

Desk space
Next, think about the size of desk you have to work in. Unlike TFT monitors, the cathode ray tube takes up a lot of space on your desk. If your desk backs on to a wall then your desktop space will be reduced considerably.

Degaussing
Over time CRT monitors are subject to the effect of magnetism from speakers and other commercial electronic devices. To combat the problem of magnetically distorted pictures you should buy a CRT monitor with a degauss function. Viewsonic CRT monitors all feature a degaussing button.

Relevance
Over the next few years it will become increasingly difficult to buy a new CRT monitor as they are rapidly being replaced by flat screens. Buying a second hand CRT screen is an extremely environmentally responsible option. These units are doomed be land filled and by buying one second hand you are doing your bit for the planet!

Second Hand Choice
If you do choose to buy a second hand unit, stay away from screens that are tinged green. This shows a degradation of the blue and red phosphors in the screen and means that the monitor will soon be unusable. Also, avoid monitors that show any signs of “ghosting” or shadows. This again means that the life of the CRT will soon come to an end.

Power usage
As CRT sets use considerably more electricity than modern flat screen units, it is important to select a monitor which is energy star compliant. This will save you money on your electricity bills and extend the life of the screen.

CRT monitors are a cheap way to get a large screen display for your desktop computer. They can be obtained online or from second hand shops extremely cheaply but watch out for common CRT display problems such as colour and picture distortion.