Monitors are regarded as a `peripheral` in the greater information and communications technology (ICT) picture, yet this product is key to being able to view information.
Monitors are used in many business applications today with the main dilemma being whether to opt for cathode ray tubes (CRT) or liquid crystal displays (LCD).
It is widely acknowledged that CRT monitors are reaching an `end of lifespan` with 15-inch versions earmarked as the first to be discontinued, leaving the market with a choice of 17-, 19- or 21-inch CRT monitors. However, there are industries that make use of applications that require touch-screen technology - creating an interactive environment - that are affected by the exit of CRT monitors, especially the 15-inch variety.
Says Peter Held, managing director of Apex Cash Control Solutions (Apex CCS): "Many point of sale (PoS) applications require small, compact monitors that `fit in` with their extremely `space conscious` environments that do not allow for large, bulky monitors. Therefore the extinction of CRT monitors starting with the 15-inch models has impacted this industry as 17-inch CRT monitors in a PoS environment are not practical due to their size. Therefore, an alternative that is gaining momentum is the 15-inch LCD monitor as it features a compact design opposed to CRT monitors."
LCD monitors also provide a much better quality picture from edge-to-edge therefore incurs less eyestrain and fatigue. Image brightness too is a distinct advantage, and contrast viewing - important if working in a fairly dark environment such as restaurants with dim lighting - has improved significantly with LCD monitors. However, the most apparent advantage of LCD monitors in a PoS environment is the space saving aspect. This advantage is of particular use within retail environments where LCD monitors may be wall mounted; something that cannot be achieved with a CRT monitor. In addition, LCD monitors do not suffer from screen burn in."
However, price is still an inhibitor of LCD monitors but the benefits, especially in a PoS environment, often justify the purchase of an LCD monitor.
Held continues: "LCD designs have also contributed to the creation of all-in-one LCD systems for PoS use. These units provide a further space saving as all the `traditional` PC components -- such as a hard drive and memory -- with a built-in touch-screen LCD monitor are featured in one unit."
He says: "It is part of any company`s responsibilities to constantly be aware of these market trends and predict patterns that might affect its competitive position. New products are perpetually launched in line with these trends. The addition of new and innovative products allows us to fulfil our strategy to offer clients the best PoS technology available at competitive pricing while continuing our focus on growing our reseller market over the next few years."
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