Used and Refurbished Monitor Key Terms

Learn the monitor language before purchasing a used or refurbished one
By Lori Carver A used orrefurbished monitor can save you considerable money over buying a new one, but be on the lookout for some potential pitfalls. This is where the key terms come into play, because there is a huge difference in what resolution and other key terms mean in a new monitor or in a used or refurbished one. RGB and CRT monitors may be viable solutions, but know they use old technology and that parts for these monitors may be scarce. Brush up on the monitor lingo before you set out to buy a used or refurbished model.

LCD, liquid crystal display

LCD is a type of monitor that utilizes liquid crystal technology, thus effectively reducing the size of the monitor while increasing the sharpness of the picture. Take care in purchasing a used or refurbished LCD monitor since its life is considerably shorter than the older counterparts.
Try:  Plasma offers a technical guide to LCD, including history and how LCD works.

Flat panel

Flat panel monitors utilize plasma technology and contain a very small footprint, thus saving space on the physical desk. Flat panel used and refurbished monitors cost considerably less than new ones.
Try:  Microsoft offers a long article about flat panel monitors and what you need to know. Make sure to press "continue" to view all of the information it provides.

Vertical refresh rate, vertical scan rate

Vertical refresh rate, or vertical scan rate, is the number of times per second that your monitor refreshes the screen. In used or refurbished models, it is best to check this attribute to alleviate tired eyes.
Try:  Best Buy offers detailed information about vertical refresh rate, including what it is and how to adjust it.

RGB

RGB, or red/green/blue, refers to a monitor that requires separate signals for each of these three colors. This is an older style of monitor and may be available only as used or refurbished monitors.
Try:  Monitor World provides detailed information on RGB monitors and how they work. Since they are older-model monitors, they may be available to people looking for used and refurbished monitors.

Resolution

Resolution in a monitor refers to the number of pixels you use to display your desktop on the screen. You can change resolution by accessing the display icon in the control panel. The factory presets monitors with the ultimate resolution for that size monitor, but when purchasing a used or refurbished monitor, check the resolution if the display does not appear sharp.
Try:  Monitors offers detailed information about resolution and the charts show which resolution is best for the size of used or refurbished monitor you buy.

CRT, cathode ray tube

CRT is an older type of monitor that utilizes a picture tube and is recognized by its bulkiness since the picture tube is housed inside the monitor casing. One reason to buy used or refurbished CRT monitors is their longevity.
Try:  Wise Geek offers detailed information about what a CRT monitor is and how it works.