There are many
recommendations available on the subject of television size by
differing professional television and movie industry organizations (some listed below).
These recommendations are based on studies that reflect the visual acuity and comfort of the viewer
with respect to the display of motion pictures in differing formats.
The purpose of this calculator is to distill
that complex research and engineering into a simple form. This
calculator addresses widescreen (16:9 ratio) displays
regardless of whether the screen type is LCD, plasma, projection, or
otherwise. The calculator has created two boundaries based on the
aforementioned recommendations. The maximum size is suggested for
those viewers interested in simulating a theater experience with 1080p high
definition material only. The minimum size is suggested for those viewers
who want the ability to enjoy the detail of high definition material (720p, 1080i,
1080p), but expect to continue viewing standard definition programming,
as well.
This
calculator only creates a "rule of thumb". The comfort zone for
any given viewer may likely exist somewhere between the
calculated boundaries.
Links
are provided below for further research into television industry
and consumer issues. Some of the links serve
both interests. Some are industry business associations, some are
engineering groups, and yet others are government regulatory agencies.