LCD and Plasma TV sales skyrocket

Sales of LCD and Plasma TVs have increased tremendously during the first half of 2003 compared to year-to-date sales in 2002, according to the CEA.

These two technologies are fueling the fastest growth among video products in terms of sales.

Both LCD and Plasma TVs offer many features over the traditional CRT (cathode ray tube) TVs, including larger, thinner and flatter screens, less glare and less radiation emission. Based on data collected by the CEA, LCD and plasma sets now comprise 20 percent of all digital TV (DTV) unit sales. DTV unit sales totaled 1.4 million through June of this year.

LCDs, which can be found in a range of products from digital clocks to microwaves, are thinner and require less power than the CRTs found in most televisions. Many television makers are using LCDs to create ultra-thin sets that can display high-definition HDTV images. As with LCD, Plasma technology does not require a tube and allows manufacturers to create large flat-panel TVs, up to 60 inches (and perhaps bigger). A plasma display consists of cells, better known as pixels; gas in the plasma state reacts with phosphors in each sub-pixel to produce color. Plasma TV displays are clear and bright even when room lights are on.

“Plasma and LCD sets offer consumers a great one-two punch in terms of picture quality and form factors,” said Sean Wargo, CEA senior market analyst. “With price points falling every day these sets are a great choice for consumers who are making the transition to digital and who also want a cool product.”