The other half of the upgrade equation is the displays. Most users at the main office are already using 17" CRTs (mostly running at 1024x768). I'd like to start converting them to using 17" or 19" LCDs running at least 1280x1024 if not 1600x1200 (20" LCDs).

Some key terms to know when searching at BizRate:

4:3 aspect ratio
XGA - 1024x768 (15"-19" $125-$200)
SXGA - 1280x1024 (17-20" $150-$200)
UXGA - 1600x1200 (20-23" $350-$500)

The SXGA screens are quickly pushing the XGA screens out of the market. NewEgg and MWave have ViewSonic SXGAs for $170-$180. Prices on the XGA screens are only $20 less.

Given the prices for the UXGA displays ($375+) there's a good argument for giving employees a pair of SXGA displays instead for the same cost.

16:9 aspect ratio
WSXGA - 1680x1050 (20" $400-$500)
WUXGA - 1920x1200 (24" $750-$1000)

I'm surprised at the pricing on the WSXGA displays, although there are only 2 on the market.

Labels: 2006