MAKE no mistake. Despite its tag as a HDTV and LCD combo, this 22-inch widescreen monitor works better on the wall as a TV than as a computer display on your desk.
For TV use, the NX2240w features both traditional and up-to-date input options. There's a standard TV tuner to get free-to-air television channels like Channel 5 and Arts Central. Cable TV subscribers can use the older S-Video, Composite or Component ports. Those who already have the new high definition (HD) sets like Sony Blu-Ray DVD player or the new StarHub high definition set-top box can plug into the HDMI port.
For PC use, there is a standard VGA input. Unfortunately, the lack of comfort features like swivel or tilt options are a bummer.
Without the tilt feature, for instance, the monitor will sit too low on your desk (unless you put a telephone book under the monitor to raise its height). I had a stiff neck from looking down at it too much. At least as a TV, you can mount it on the wall at a comfortable height.
This is a standard black monitor.
The specs list is average: contrast ratio of 1,000:1, brightness of 300 nits and a response time of 5ms. In terms of display, it works best at 1,680x1,050 pixels, making it suitable for the average user.
Which is why its performance is also just so-so. Forget about using this machine for designing posters - the contrast is a shade off perfect. For example, the black background on a print advertisement for a jewellery company appeared grey on the monitor.
The one thing going for this 22-inch display is that its widescreen format allows me to split the screen into two equal windows. So I could have two applications like Photoshop and Indesign on screen at the same time.
As a video monitor, the NX2240w is only HD-Ready, meaning it can screen HD images at only up to 1,080i, not full HD at 1,080p. Nevertheless, video images, especially those from HD sources, are sharp and comparable to other monitors in its price range.
FINAL SAY
An entry-level monitor that is better off as a video monitor.
ViewSonic NX2240w HDTV/LCD
$599
Available at authorised Viewsonic dealers
By Adli Yashir
This article was first published in Digital Life, The Straits Times on Apr 1, 2008.
