LCD manufacturers have been pushing their monitors as viable replacements for older CRT displays for some time now and with some success. Yet, while LCDs - as a result of large environmental and personal health laws - are prevalent as new business monitor purchases in Europe, South Africans still seem more inclined to favour CRT displays because they cost less.

"When it comes to monitors, you get what you pay for," says Mark Campbell, GM of Tarsus Technologies. "A simple comparison of CRT and LCD technology shows that LCDs are superior and more versatile products in virtually every situation."

Starting with the cost issue, Campbell admits the purchase price of the CRT is lower than that of the LCD, however, one should consider the costs over the life of the system if the comparison is to be accurate. An LCD consumes 2,4 times less power and is therefore far more efficient than its older competitor.

"With LCDs, you get less power consumption and consequently less heat; that means you end up with lower airconditioner usage and an overall cost saving over the life of the system," Campbell explains. "A typical 17-inch LCD consumes a maximum of 45 W when on and about 2 W on standby; a CRT consumes 100 W when on and about 3 W on standby - there is no comparison."

In addition, an LCD is a third of the size of a CRT. The monitor therefore consumes far less space on users' desktops and increases efficient space utilisation. And if desktop space is a premium, most LCDs are able to be wall mounted - which introduces in-office advertising opportunities.

Environmental health considerations are not an important issue in South African corporates yet, but they could be in the near future. LCDs emit no harmful radiation and barely detectable electromagnetic emissions. "They are also easier and safer on the eyes, allowing people to spend more time in front of their monitors without eyestrain," Campbell adds.

"When it comes to weight, the LCD is a dream with a 17-inch Samsung LCD weighing in at 4,8 kg, as opposed to a 18-inch CRT weighing about 21 kg," he notes. "The one is a serious health risk when being moved, while the other supports users that may move desks or need to move their monitors around for presentations etc."

There is no real comparison. When it comes to monitors, the LCD wins the day every time. The purchase price of the old CRT may look good, but the costs over the life of the system, including potential health hazards make it a poor second choice.

"And to top it all, the aesthetic appeal of LCD is far greater than that of the CRT," Campbell concludes. "LCDs just look good."

For more information contact Jo-Anne Viljoen, Tarsus Technologies, 011 531 1000, jviljoen@tarsus.co.za, www.tarsus.co.za