Step 2: Select your Plasma TV Screen Size
Plasma TVs are measured diagonally across the screen, as are other television sets and monitors. Plasma screen TVs start at 37" and increase in size up to 103". The most typical sizes are: 37", 42", 50", 58", 60", and 65" though the 37" size seems almost non-existent today. Most screens smaller than 37" use LCD Panel technology, and anything larger than 65" are typically rear-projection televisions.
If you have a set installation in mind, the first stage in selecting the desired plasma TV screen size should be to measure the space it's going in. When recessing the unit in a space, allow at least 3" of open space at the top and adequate ventilation space behind the unit to allow heat to escape. Remember to allow an additional 3-6 inches on either side of the monitor if you wish to attach speakers to your plasma TV (if speakers are not already built in).
Size of Room/Viewing Area
Make sure you have adequate viewing space between you and the TV. With Plasma TVs becoming more and more popular —and cheaper—these days, the temptation to purchase the largest screen possible is hard to pass up. However, you must have the proper distance to have the most pleasing viewing experience.
PTVBG recommendations are as follows: 37" screens may be viewed from 6 to 10 feet. A 42" plasma TV may be optimally viewed from 8 to 12 feet. A 50" plasma TV will look best from 10 to 14 feet, and you should have at least 14 feet to work with when installing a 60-inch or 65-inch plasma screen. Even with today's HDTV signals which allow for a much closer viewing distance due to a much clearer picture, these distance guidelines are still appropriate because most television signals are not broadcast in HD.
10 Steps to Buying a Plasma TV
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