A buyer's guide to 3d tv

If James Cameron and his army of Navi are to be believed the 3D TV revolution has begun, and it is time for us all to don our specs and watch a new technological horizon leap out of our screens and embrace us. If this sounds like something you'd enjoy, but you don't yet know your Monsters from your Aliens never fear, our buyers' guide is here to help:

3D TV need-to-knows
What is 3D TV?
A screen and glasses combination that allows you to experience added depth of image, and even the 'bursts right out of the screen' experience you've had in the cinema. The screen transmits a signal to the glasses, using active shutter technology to project different images on each eye, which are then combined by the brain to produce the illusion of depth.

Why do I want one?
First things first, a 3D TV is a new TV, and as the newest offering from the technology giants you can bet that a 3D TV will also be a state of the art 2D to boot. Your 3D TV will be slim, lightweight and beautifully styled, and if you take my advice really, really big - 3D TV requires the biggest screen you can buy, it's a total immersion technology that works better the more 'immersed' you are. In addition to this is the possibility of 3D gaming with a download from Playstation, HD Freeview, USB ports enabling recording in HD, and internet and wireless functions.

What can I watch?
At present the best home 3D experience is offered by combining your 3D TV with a 3D capable Blu-ray player (sold separately) for the full on cinema experience. However, it doesn't end there, some 3D TVs operate 2D to 3D allowing you to watch any 2D programme with enhanced depth of image. Dedicated 3D channels, and many more 3D broadcasts on regular channels are on the way, with Sky l having already broadcast several football matches in 3D.

Is there a downside?
Not if you're very rich there isn't. Right now 3D TV is pretty expensive, especially when you take into account the need for glasses. Most TVs will come with a set, but additional sets will set you back. There is also a consideration regarding cables. As it stands HMDI 1.4 is the only cable that will carry a 3D signal, so you will need to think about buying new.

Should I buy it now?
If you are in the market for a new TV, and 3D is within your financial grasp you have the opportunity to buy into the technology of the future today, without having to wait years to start enjoying the benefits; lack of available 3D material is fast becoming a thing of the past. However, if you are just looking for TV that won't break the bank, and aren't looking to add active shutter specs to your summer wardrobe, by all means, let the opportunity pass.

3d tvs are available now and once content comes around you'll be amongst the very few who have this great technology. As for me, I'm checking out some new lcd tvs on the market.