Outdoor TV Enclosure – Plasma or LCD

Outdoor digital signage enclosures are becoming a common commodity for protecting screens in outdoor locations. Outdoor digital signage, information screens and outdoor TVs for entertainment are often housed in plasma or LCD enclosures. While these enclosures are very similar, the TVs the y enclose are very different; so what is best for outdoor viewing, plasma or LCD?

The Differences

While externally, LCD (liquid crystal displays) and plasma screens look the same, they are very different technologies. LCDs make an image by running a current through the liquid crystal whilst plasmas use a thin layer of plasma which is aggravated by an electric current.

The big difference is that with an LCD a backlight is required to project the image, often just a fluorescent tube, although LEDs (Light Emitting Diode) are being used in many modern LCDs, which use less power. Plasmas on the other hand, do not require a backlight as the plasma is very bright and this produces a high contrast level.

Outdoor Use

Because of their high contrast level, plasmas provide a good image in outdoor locations but they do have a downside. Plasmas can get very hot and when there is bright sunshine this can exacerbate the problem and it can be very easy for them to overheat. Also, the screen face itself can get hot and lead to permanent scorching of screen which is why most outdoor digital signage screens are LCD. With backlit LED systems, the contrast levels are higher, without the excessive heat, so it provides a good compromise.

Plasmas, however, can be used successfully outdoors as long as there is adequate outdoor cooling in the outdoor digital signage enclosure; not just internal cooling but also a form of screen cooling to ensure the screen face does not get too hot.

The great advantage of using LCD or plasma enclosures for digital signage is that it doesn’t mater which system you go for as the enclosure can ensure whatever screen is used it is kept cool enough to prevent overheating and screen burn.