3D TV is finally here and companies and TV stations have already started producing films and programs for broadcasting in this exciting new technology. The release of the 3D TV technology, however, is not yet widely known amongst all. Just as we are digesting the release of high definition TV, television manufacturers invade the shelves with a new technology: 3D is riding on the success of films like “Avatar”. Samsung, Sony, Panasonic, LG and Philips have had 3D TV models released that are capable of broadcasting images in 3D TV. Sharp and Toshiba will launch later in the year. 3D TVs are expected to represent 10-15% of sales this year.

There are many questions that need to be answered and many people are still wandering if 3D TV is worth investing in. From the initial impressions, 3D TV looks to give some stunning results. But the programs remain rare and programs for the platform are not yet widely available. So should we rush to buy 3D TV? Lets learn a bit more and address some of the common questions.

Is the 3D technology really developed?

Yes, because it has been around for years. For the case of understanding in simple terms, 3D images are filmed by two different cameras, one for the right eye and one for the left eye. During their broadcasting on screen, the brain assembles the two pieces of information together into one to form complete 3D images. When watching 3D TV, the viewer really develops a feeling of being immersed in the action.

Should the viewer use 3D glasses?

For the time being, yes. All manufacturers are supplying 3D glasses that are meant to be used to watch the TV. But the spectacles are heavy and moreover inconsistent from one brand to another. Toshiba, Sharp and Hitachi showed prototypes of 3D screens without glasses, but have not yet announced a release date.

What programs can we watch in 3D?

For the moment, there is not much. The UK satellite TV supplier Sky has started broadcasting some channels for 3D, but this is relatively small in the scheme of things. The channel broadcasted key football games throughout the world cup and continues to add more programming for 3D but we will need to wait a little longer before the mainstream channels are broadcasted in 3D.

Can we keep our old DVDs and video games?

Yes. 3D TVs are also capable of broadcasting images in 2D, so you don’t have to worry whether they will accept your current collection of movies and games. Conversely, to watch the new Blu-ray topography, you need to buy a suitable reader, because the first generation devices do not read them. Same thing applies to consoles. The first 3D video games are not expected before the end of the year and only Sony has so far announced an update of its PS3 console this summer to allow users to play 3D games.

Should we fear adverse effects on health?

As going to the cinema, it is not unusual to experience fatigue, and even a headache when watching 3D. The brain is having to reconstruct the stereoscopic images and it can be stressful in the long run, especially if the scenes are very choppy. Also note that 5-10% of people suffer from “stereo blindness”: they do not perceive the depth of images, even when wearing 3D glasses. In other words, they will not see the difference between a conventional TV and a 3D screen. It is therefore advisable to test the process in-store before purchase

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