Large LCD Displays
Over the last few years, LCD display technologies have advanced rapidly, with an increase in quality and a decrease in prices across the board. As the cost of making (and supplying) displays has gone down, it has become more feasible for trusts to buy larger displays, with many trusts moving away from 15 inch screens to 17 inch screens. For group meetings - when 10 or more physicians or surgeons are vying for a view of the screen to discuss a diagnosis or management plan - these screens become inadequate.
To address this situation, you may consider installing a large LCD display - most of the leading manufacturers produce displays that are above 20 inches, with some manufacturers producing 23 inch widescreen displays. Displays vary greatly in their specifications and price, and it is important to choose a display that is fit for the purpose it is being purchased for.
For group meetings with upto 5 people present, we recommend a minimum screen size of 19 inches although 20-21 is better, and a minimum resolution of 1280 x 1024 (1.3 Megapixel). For group meetings of between 5 and 10 people, we recommend a minimum screen size of 22 inches at a minimum resolution of 1600 x 1200 (1.9 Megapixel). Over 11 people, we recommend either a very large display (30 inches and above) or using a projector.
Although there are screens available with much higher resolutions then those quoted, you should only go to the extra expense if it is clinically justified (eg. radiologists using screens for diagnosis / reporting may elect to have a screen with a resolution greater than 5 Megapixels).
Other key specifications to consider are contrast ratio (we recommend at least 500:1), viewing angle (the wider the better for group meetings), brightness, and the warranty package available. Higher end monitors may have DICOM calibration capabilities.
LCD displays are very easy to install and use, take up little space, use little energy and are silent. All the better products can be wall mounted to directly replace your current X Ray viewing boxes. With the correct graphics card, you can set up a multi screen display very easily.
Please look at our reviews section to see displays that we have tested and can recommend for use in the healthcare setting.
To find out about using projectors for group meetings, click next.