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In the quest to get the best possible picture, many thousands of consumers will invest in their first plasma screen television this year. Undoubtedly, plasma is a good choice as it offers top of the line color accuracy, vibrancy, and clarity which can enhance a family's viewing experience. However, once the purchase is made and the television is delivered, the quest to have the best possible viewing experience is not over. It's important for plasma buyers to take the time to become familiar with the proper care of the screen to assure many years of trouble free viewing enjoyment.

Plasma televisions don't require a great deal of care and concern but observing a few tips can assure years of continued viewing pleasure.

Keep it steady:

Proper mounting or placement to assure stability is important. The screen should be secure and out of the main traffic pattern. Plasma televisions are not very tolerant of falls or collisions.

Give it room to breathe:

Because of the large amount of heat a plasma screen can generate, electrical components within the unit are at risk. Be sure the television has enough open space around it. The manufacturer will provide venting guidelines.

Keep it dry:

To avoid destroying the electrical components and creating corrosion, avoid exposure to excessive humidity, spills, or condensation due to rapid changes in temperature.

Dimmer is sometimes better:

Many rooms have lower ambient light and therefore don't require the same brightness that is used on a show room floor. Brightness levels that are set too high will prematurely age the phosphor lining of the plasma screen.

Avoid excessive heat:

It bears repeating; plasma screens require a cool environment, due primarily to the heat they generate. Outdoor placement of a plasma screen is a not a good option due to the exposure to heat, humidity, other moisture, and dirt.

Clean it with care:

Using the proper tools for cleaning is important. Manufacturers seldom recommend strong cleaners. A micro fiber cloth is often the tool of choice and is often effective in ridding the screen of dust and finger prints. If more aggressive cleaning is necessary there are cleaners specifically made for plasma or PC screens (anti-static cleaners) that can be used. No cleaner should be sprayed directly on the screen; instead it should be applied to the cloth. Use of paper towels, Kleenex, or any other abrasive type cloths should be avoided as they can damage the anti-glare coating.

Avoid static images:

In recent years anti-burn in technology has advanced greatly but it is best to avoid leaving static images on the screen. This means that images should not be paused on the screen for extended periods of time and stations which present a static block/image on the screen should be viewed on a limited basis as well. Hooking a PC up to a plasma screen is also inadvisable as they are often used to display static images.

Be prepared for lightening to strike:

Using a surge protector can save a lot of damage and regrets later.

Preservation:

A plasma screen should be turned off when not in use. This can help avoid accidental burn in, reduce heat, and help to avoid decreased brightness/pre-mature aging.