Samsung SyncMaster 173P LCD Review

Introduction

Welcome to another all-new OverclockersClub review. Today we'll be looking at a brand new LCD monitor from Samsung. Everyone has heard of LCD monitors, many own them and the rest of us envy their desk space, but what makes an LCD monitor so desirable? Are they an improvement over CRT? Well, Samsung's monitors are among the best in the world, so the standards are being set high today as we dive into the world of LCD monitors. Will we survive? Who knows, let's jump into it.

First, a little bit about Samsung and the 173P:
"Samsung, the world’s leading manufacturer of CRT and TFT monitors, today unleashes one of the most versatile and technologically-advanced LCD displays on the market, the SyncMaster 173P. Targeted to PC and online gamers, corporate and business markets and perfect for the home, the 17” 173P incorporates Samsung’s brand new and proprietary MagicTune™ software for a truly hands-free experience. It also features Samsung’s MagicBright technology, dual inputs (digital and analog) and Pivot technology."

Kinda like a sneak preview isn't it? Let's move on to the review, and we'll kick it off by taking a look at the components.

Specifications

Specifications	Model	173P
	Part Number	173P - Silver
Panel	Type	a-si TFT /PVA
	Size	17"
	Pixel Pitch (mm)	0.264
	Brightness	270cd/m2
	Contrast Ratio	700:1
	Viewing Angle	178o / 178o
	Aspect Ratio	5:4
	Response Time (ms)	25
	Interface	Analog / Digital
Frequency	Horizontal Rate - (Analog)	30-81
	Horizontal Rate - (Digital)	30-63
	Vertical Rate	56-76
	Bandwidth	140
Resolution	Maximum	1280 x 1024
Color	Maximum	16.7M
Signal Input	Input Video Signal	Analog RGB, DVI Digital link
	Video Level: Analog	Analog:0.7VP-P
	Video Level: Digital	TMDSTM
	Sync Type	Separate H/V, Composite H/V, SOG
	Input Connectors	15pin D-sub, DVI-D
Plug & Play	DDC	DDC 2B
Power	On / Working	40 Watts (Max)
Wall Mount	VESA®	VESA 75mm
	Emission Standard	TCO '03
Cabinet Color	Bezel Color	Silver
Dimensions	Physical (WxHxD)	15.0" x 15.6" x 9.3"
	Packaging (WxHxD)	18.7" x 16.1" x 6.9"
Weight	Net (physical)	13.2 lbs.
	Gross (packaging)	17.6 lbs.
Special Features	Special Features	Ultra narrow bezel and slim design; Dual hinge stand; Pivot technology; Button less design; MagicTuneTM; MagicBrightTM; Color gamut 70.8%
Pivot	Pivot Technology	Yes
Warranty	Parts / Labor / Backlight	3 / 3 / 3
Compatible Computer Systems		PC / Windows
Street Price		$649

Don't know what many of those means? We'll provide definitions as they come along.