The Truth About 3D HDTV's (High Definition Televisions)

It seems every few years now, a new innovation is being added to HDTV's. Whether it be 60 and 120 Hz refresh rates or LED back lighting technology, HDTV manufacturers will always find a new way to bring in consumers. Their latest, and possibly greatest technique of attracting customers is the promise of 3D HDTV. Along with this, Facebook and Twitter integration is now found in most new television lines from major manufacturers. What consumers don't know, is the fact that 3D won't exactly be available to them for quite some time.

The latest 3D technology is available at almost all major retailers. However, it's often overlooked that there is currently little to no software that supports 3D viewing. Companies such as Sony, Microsoft and other gaming giants are pushing 3D technology as the next big thing in the market. Also, some movies will be available in 3D, although they will still require the cheap, annoying glasses that are used in the traditional method. Gaming is pushing to develop new technology over then next few years that allows viewers to see and interact with games in 3D, without the use of glasses. For example, Nintendo's 3DS utilizes technology that provides the same experience without the glasses. Sony also claims that their PlayStation 3 console will be able to support 3D games with a simple firmware update over the internet.

What consumers need to realize is that many of their televisions already support 3D, although they did not know this when they purchased it. Anyone with a HDTV that has a refresh rate of 120 frames per second can display 3D images and videos if combined with the correct device. This is how many software programs that display in three dimensions will work. The science behind it is pretty simple to understand. The human eye is only capable of detecting up to 60 frames per second, or how many times the screen refreshes in one second. When a display operates at 120 frames per second, paired with the correct software and hardware, the television will be able to essentially "trick" the human eye into seeing things in three dimensions.

Altogether, if you own an HDTV that is capable of displaying 120 frames per second or more, you shouldn't waste the money on a so called "3D capable" television set. Not only will 3D not be supported for quite a few years by cable and satellite companies, but you will have a gaping three thousand dollar hole in your pocket. In my opinion, it would be a better idea to wait until televisions can offer something new that will be useful as soon as you bring it home.