How Does An LED Television Work?

Large flat panel television and entertainment center in a modern loft. Vertical shot.

LED televisions are relatively new entertainment devices that utilize a series of light emitting diodes for TV back-lighting. While many take the technology for granted, check out these helpful points for understanding how these modern technological devices work.

LED versus cathode ray tubes

All televisions work through back-lit projection from a light source and onto the display screen. Older televisions use standard cathode ray tubes that are set in the rear of the television and project light onto the screen, while LED televisions replace the tube with small light emitting diodes to present light. LEDs are much smaller than cathode ray tubes, allowing for lighter and thinner televisions to be constructed. LEDs are more practical light sources that permit better projection of darker colors than old CRT television sets. There are two types of LED televisions currently produced: Edge and RGB.

LED televisions use less electricity than cathode ray tube sets and are built with no mercury tubes, allowing for disposal that is friendly to the environment.

Edge LED lighting

Edge LED lighting televisions combine a series of light-emitting diodes set around the perimeter of the screen with a light-diffusing panel that spreads light from the outer edge of the set to the middle of the screen. Edge LED televisions do not allow the same robust contrast of RGB LED televisions, but they are built in very thin sets which are exceptionally lightweight and inexpensive.

RGB LED lighting

RGB LED televisions utilize light-emitting diodes set behind the television screen, allowing for regional dimming while delivering more vibrant color. These types of televisions offer a greater contrast between black and white color projections. The disadvantages of these types of televisions is that they are more expensive than edge LED televisions and due to the LEDs covering the entire back of the projection screen, RGB models are also heavier.

LED televisions are robust sets for high-definition picture delivery, but there are subtle differences in televisions built with this technology. Take the time to consider these differences before making a new television purchase.

LED televisions use a series of light emitting diodes to display a crystal clear picture