PTBG: Fujitsu Plasma TV reviews and specs from the Buying Guide

INTRODUCTION

The PDS4209 replaced the PDS4203 around a year ago and it will be replaced soon by the PDS4229. How a manufacturer decides on a model number must be like throwing darts - why not PDS4203 to PDS4204 to PDS4205? Too easy to follow that way I guess.

Fujitsu PDS4209 vs. Its New Replacement PDS4229
There will only be a few minor differences in the PDS4229 to the PDS4209: 1) It will have a new anti glare screen (which Fujitsu and Hitachi make). This will then be the new screen for all manufacturers that purchase screens from Fujitsu. This new screen will further cut down reflection from the already anti glare plasma display. 2) The fans are 30% quieter in the PDS4229. 3) Most significantly, the PDS4229 has a new video processor that does a better job of eliminating artifacts in the black and darker video scenes. The inputs are the same as well as the 853X480 resolution. Contrast may be slightly better but nothing significant. Units are of same depth and same appearance with a trim almost black bezel.

Fujitsu PDS4203 vs. PDS4209

The differences between the 4203 and 4209 were substantial as the depth came down from 6" to 3.3". The bezel improved to a shiny tough looking charcoal black from a plastic looking dark gray. The brightness was increased 30% to assist with those well- lit rooms. The contrast ratio in turn improved 100 points or so. The unit was decreased in weight to 69 pounds and the built in amplifiers were taken out in order to help decrease costs.

Fujitsu PDS4214
The consumer only model PDS4214 is essentially the same unit as the PDS4209 except with built in speaker amplifiers and a degree or two higher contrast ratio( I frankly don't believe the contrast ratio is any higher). This unit sells for $1000 more than the PDS4209 or PDS4229.

PICTURE - 82

The image quality from video sources such as DVD players, or a simple signal such as a cable box are the primary set of concerns for the home user. Resolution figures do not play as integral a part in this decision. However, for commercial concerns resolution may be more important as many of the XGA images needed display at a 1024X768. The Fujitsu PDS4209 is a basic plasma display monitor showing 853X480. It does not have the highest resolution, contrast ratio, or brightness levels but is overall a pretty fair monitor. It is billed more as a monitor to be used in board rooms and at trade shows than as a TV for home use.

We tested the unit with DVD 480p progressive scan input as well as 480I. Our tests also included an HDTV signal from a Sencore VSB Player outputting a 1080I signal. Signals were passed into the component BNC type video inputs and the 15 pin VGA type input.

I found the built in video scalar/ converter to be a fair piece of equipment - displaying a 4:3 image on the full 16:9 monitor without distortion. The black levels are the main point of concern with video. Fujitsu has had a tough time denying the intended inert phosphor gases from the electrodes that light the plasma. This means that certain gases which should be inert are emitting some light which hurts blacks and dark levels. This will be improved upon somewhat in the PDS4229. An outboard line doubler also improves the picture on the this plasma making the image sharper, less grainy, and with less pixel flicker.

Colors were vibrant as with most plasma monitor - though I found the unit to me a bit muddled in the gray scales. Images were beautifully soft and easy on the eye. Brightness levels are fine on the unit and should be helped by the upcoming improvements in the anti glare glass.

OTHER CONSIDERATIONS - 78

Input selection is basic on this monitor with one set of component BNC type inputs, one VGA type input, one s-video input, and one composite BNC type input. The unit is the thinnest on the market at 3.3 inches in depth (except for Revox). It is a very nice looking plasma monitor with a near black bezel frame which tapers nicely around the edges. I like the black bezel best on plasma displays as they provide the greatest contrast to the smooth images.

The PDS4209 and PDS4229 cut some corners by not offering built in amplifiers, or a built in 3:2 pulldown progressive converter. This allows Fujitsu to offer this piece as a price leader over NEC, Sony, and Panasonic. If you are purchasing the unit for home use you will need your own tuning source (satellite box), sound system (home theater receiver and speakers), and recommended line doubler (not absolutely necessary depending on use).

VALUE RATING - 89

This is the lowest price plasma display monitor in the market at a recent selling price of around $5,300. It is a good value at only 3.3" for board room applications in which resolution is not a primary concern. As the prices of some of the better plasma monitors on the market fall, Fujitsu will be forced to keep this model as the price leader. Expect a price of below $5,000 soon.

Plasma TV Models

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Fujitsu Plasma TV Review

INTRODUCTION

PICTURE - 82

OTHER CONSIDERATIONS - 78

SPECIAL FEATURES

WEAKNESSES

VALUE RATING - 89

OVERALL RATING - 81