Desktop prowess | Bangkok Post: tech

The inner components of a computer are often the most discussed in terms of technological advancements, but improving accessories can also greatly enhance a user's computing experience.

Wireless keyboards, which can declutter a desk, were discussed on this page last week, and another way to reduce a PC's space requirements is with a new compact monitor. LG has recently released its new E60 monitor series in a simultaneous global strategy. Let's take a look at the 23-inch E2360v model and see how much effect it can have on a user's experience and desk.

FIRST APPEARANCE

Following the popular E50 series, the E60s take up the style reigns and even improve on the impressive design qualities of their predecessors.

The E2360v, the biggest of the series, has a 23-inch screen with the 16:9 ratio that has become the new standard for monitors and notebooks.

But the striking feature is evident even before the unit is taken out of the box - it is the thinnest LG monitor yet at a skeletal 12.9mm.

I can remember buying my first large monitor, a 17-inch CRT. It came in a huge cube-shaped box and took up the majority of my desk. The E2360v does just the opposite.

It's easy to assemble, and then perches unobtrusively on its unimposing base, adding style points without the cost of lost desk area.

The design features sleek lines and angular edges, in a contrast to the bloated curves of past monitors, even making my Samsung SynchMaster of the same screen size feel heavy and bulky. The monitor designers may have had a peek over the fence at the Samsung design studio, as the cool transparent stand is remarkably similar to that of the Samsung PX2370, as is the power indicator, which glows red in standby mode and blue when active.

Five adjustment buttons and an on/off switch appear subtly under the screen, towards the right, and offer easy control of the OSD menu.

Although not a huge departure from the style of existing models, the design gains big points, particularly for its thinness, lightness and general "coolness".

It's no surprise that media coverage has focussed heavily on the design aspect of the series.

SCREEN PERFORMANCE

Like its predecessors, the E2360v offers full HD resolution at 1,920x1,080 pixels. It continues to use LED backlighting technology, offering even illumination across the screen and affording the luxurious thinness discussed above.

The bright and clear picture is complemented by the contrast ratio, which is more than 1,000:1.

However, the colours are perhaps a little dull, with slight blue overtones, but the software that comes in the box can help compensate for this, if you don't mind the extra bloatware on your system.

Viewing angle is good and wide, and the 5ms response time is ample for gaming and fast-paced movies.

In terms of connectivity, the unit features D-sub, DVI-D and HDMI inputs, although not all the cables come in the box, which is a miserly oversight.

ECO-FEATURES

As the globe warms, manufacturers are taking note. And the LED backlighting technology claims to consume up to 45% less energy than traditional LCD monitors, in the same vein as Google's new eco-friendly splash page at http://www.blackle.com (try it and see).

It is also claimed to contain fewer toxic materials, such as halogen and mercury.

VERDICT

Overall, the LG E2360v offers good value, and while it isn't a huge advance over its E50 series predecessors in terms of technology or performance, the improved and striking design will certainly turn many heads and improve the aesthetics of work-stations.

Users will like the thinness, style, contrast ratio and power saving features, but will find an excuse not to buy it in the lack of bundled cables, slight colour distortion and lack of brightness.

Call me superficial, but I was already sold as I took it out of the box.