How 3D TV Works
Interested in learning how 3D TV works? Below is a brief introduction along with links to additional information. There are currently three methods to displaying 3D content, however this article will focus on the active shutter method which is what is being used in today's 3D TVs.
3D TV images are produced by tricking the brain into thinking it is seeing a 3D object. This is accomplished by presenting two images that are slightly offset which simulates the different light angles that are seen when viewing a true 3D object. Since two, slightly offset, images are being displayed on the screen, if you try and watch a 3D TV without glasses it will appear blurry. Therefore you will need to wear Active Shutter glasses.
Active Shutter glasses are truly active, they have batteries, and synchronize with the TV. The glasses shutter one lens at a time alternating between eyes in a synchronized fashion with the image being displayed on the TV. As mentioned earlier the TV displays two slightly offset images, however these images are not displayed at exactly the same time. The TV is rapidly alternating between the two images and the glasses synchronize with TV to shutter the left eye when the right image is displayed and shutter the right eye when the left image is displayed.
In order for all this to work the TV must display both images and send out a signal that the glasses can use to synchronize with. Unfortunately there is not an industry standard on the signal between the 3D TV and 3D glasses. Therefore it is best to purchase 3D glasses that are the same brand as your 3D TV otherwise they may not be able to work together. Keep this in mind if you invite guests over to watch a 3D movie with you. You will need to supply glasses for everyone watching the movie or ensure they bring the same brand glasses as your TV.
3D is available in all the major television technologies, however you will find that the top selling technologies are LCD and LED. Mainly because these technologies are offered by most of the manufactures making them more readily available. However that does not imply they are not a solid technology, both are an excellent choice for a new TV. Two articles to the right provide more details.
3D TV Cost
How much does a 3D TV cost? You will find that 3D is more of a feature being introduced in new models of TVs than a type of television. Therefore most of the higher end models have this feature and you are unlikely to notice a big, if any, price difference for 3D capabilities. However there are other expenses for 3D such as the 3D glasses and a 3D TV Blu Ray player.