Wayne N. Kawamoto
Managing Editor, www.smallbusinesscomputing.com
Sony recently introduced its new X series of liquid-crystal displays, which includes the company’s first 20-inch SDM-X202 (20.1-inch viewable image size) flat panel. Sony also introduced a new Eco Mode for its X series displays that should allow users to reduce energy consumption up to 20 percent by adjusting a screen’s brightness with the touch of a button.
The new line of computer displays includes the 15-inch SDM-X52 (15.0-inch viewable image size), 17-inch SDM-X72 (17.0-inch viewable image size) and 18-inch SDM-X82 (18.1-inch viewable image size) displays. Allo models include built-in stereo speakers, a bundled DVI-D cable for quick digital set-up, and internal power supplies.
According to the company, the displays’ cable management system, internal power supply and built-in stereo speakers will clear up space on desktops, or for those who prefer a zero footprint, the displays are also arm- or wall-mountable. All models, except the X202 display, are available in black or two-toned grey. The X202 model is available in black or silver.
Each X series display is designed to adjust to several different positions according to the user’s needs. The displays can tilt up to 80 degrees (20 degrees on the X202) depending on preference and the X52, X72 and the X82 displays have up to 2 inches of height adjustment. In addition, the X82 and the X202 displays can swivel up to 45 degrees to help alleviate neck aches.
Typical liquid-crystal displays consume 60 to 80 percent less energy compared to similarly-sized standard cathode ray tube (CRT) monitors. All models in the X series include an Eco Mode function that lets users modify the brightness and reduce energy consumption with a button on the front of the display.
For those who are preparing to go digital, but still want to keep their analog connection, all four of the X series models have both digital and analog inputs that can run both formats. With the digital connection and a DVI-D cable included in the box, there are no extra steps needed to maximize video performance. The displays also provide multiple platform support for users who want the ability to toggle between a Macintosh computer and Microsoft Windows-based personal computer.
Pricing and Availability
The X52 and the X82 displays, available for about $550 and $1,100, respectively, will ship in June. The X72 model, expected to sell for about $900, will ship in August. The X202, available for about $2,000, will ship in September. More information and specifications are available at www.sony.com/displays.
