3D TV - Why It's Named 3D TV

Call it a marketing scheme, high demand or simply advancing technology, but 3D movies have infiltrated movie theaters across the country. Consumers looking to duplicate the 3D experience at home may purchase a 3D television, turning their living room into a 21st century entertainment center. However, simply owning a 3D TV will not accomplish this task.    

The Name Says It All  

Those who own a 3D TV have the ability to play games, watch movies and television shows with a stereoscopic effect, which is another way of saying with depth. Traditional televisions only display content in 2D -- height and width -- while 3D televisions supply depth, or a third dimension. This third dimension is what gives 3D TV its name. Most 3D TVs have the ability to function as a standard 2D television, in case the owner wishes to watch content in a more traditional fashion.  

The Mechanics  

Television screens that can play 3D display the exact same image twice, separate from one another. One image is meant to be seen with the viewer's left eye, while the other is intended for his right eye. Both images are intermixed with one another, creating a blurry illusion when the proper glasses are not being worn. When the 3D glasses are worn, a process known as fusing takes place. Fusing simply means the two images become one, creating the illusion of depth.  

At Home  

To be able to watch 3D movies or shows at home you will have to purchase a 3D-compatible television. Simply purchasing 3D glasses will not add depth to traditional television sets. As of 2011, a handful of companies make 3D televisions, including Samsung, Vizio, Sony, LG and Panasonic. The prices can range, but most models cost at least $1,900. Consumers will also need a device to play the 3D content, such as a Blu-ray player or a PlayStation 3 that has been updated to handle 3D.  

Considerations  

Those interested in playing 3D video games should be aware of which consoles offer the most titles. As of 2011, the PlayStation 3 has the widest selection of 3D games, followed by the Xbox 360 and then the Nintendo Wii. Outside of sporting events, most television shows are not broadcast in 3D. Only a handful of networks -- including ESPN and Discovery -- have announced 3D channels. All those who wish to watch 3D will need their own set of glasses. According to the College of Optometrists in Vision Development, roughly 5 to 10 percent of Americans cannot view 3D images due to stereo blindness. If they were to view a 3D TV with glasses, the images would still appear in 2D. As of 2011, glasses-free 3D televisions are only available in Japan.