CRT (Cathode Ray Tube)

The screen in a CRT set is curved at the edges, resulting in picture distortion when viewed at certain angles. However, picture quality and colour definition are good. Product lifespan is also regarded as good although they are prone to screen burn issues. CRT sets are cheap to make but many larger manufacturers have ceased their production. As a result of consumer demand for newer alternatives.

Energy figures given are per square inch of screen area

How It Works

Electron beams are passed at speed through a conical-shaped glass tube and onto a fluorescent screen - effectively ‘painting’ an image onto the screen. The image is created by charging phosphors, which glow during exposure to light. The larger the screen the larger the glass tube needed. This makes CRT sets impractical beyond a screen size of 40-inches, as the cabinet required to house the technology would be too bulky for domestic use and the tube would be too fragile.

The cathode ray tube was invented in 1879 and until the late ‘80s the CRT television set was the only type widely available on the High Street. CRT sets still account for 83% of all UK televisions. But this percentage is expected to fall to approx 51% by 2010 – and to virtually zero by 2020.

STATISTICS SOURCE: Market Transformation Programme, UK - Briefing Notes (Aug. 2007)

Hint

Disposing of those unwanted CRT sets – a staggering 70 million in the UK alone – poses a major environmental challenge. Before you buy a new television, think carefully about what you will do with your old set.

For information visit: www.defra.gov.uk

STATISTICS SOURCE: BBC News Online – Dec. 2006