On paper, SED, codeveloped with camera maker Canon, looks promising. A flat-panel display technology, SED (Surface-conduction Electron-emitter Display) uses phosphors activated by an electron emitter, just like standard CRT tube televisions. Supposedly, the result is tube-level picture quality in a flat form factor. Details were sketchy, but the first model should be 50 inches in size and have full 1,920x1,080 resolution.

Many consumers are stil debating whether to go for a plasma, rear-projection or LCD screen? Then, wait a bit longer to check out the SED TV that Canon  and Toshiba are planning to launch in 2006. Based on the latest flat screen technology called SED (surface-conduction electron-emitter display), the SED TV claims to be able to deliver a crisp picture with rich blacks, vivid colors, quick response times, low power consumption and a wide viewing angle (the idea is to combine the best of plasma and LCD technology).

The SED, based on a new type of flat-panel display technology, was created through the merging of Canon's proprietary electron-emission and micro fabrication technologies with Toshiba's CRT technology and mass-production technologies for liquid crystal displays (LCDs) and semiconductors. The companies claim that SED's color images surpass the conventional types of display. In addition, it also delivers exceptional overall image quality, fast video-response performance, high contrast, high gradation levels and low power consumption.

Although SED is supposed to be similar to CRT technology, in both a picture is generated when electrons fired from the back of the set collide with a phosphor-coated screen to emit light; but the difference is that instead of using three electron guns, SED uses an array of hundreds of thousands of tiny electron emitters (one for each pixel).

Why it might be better

SED's emitters can be arranged on a rear plate located extremely close to the phosphor-coated front and also do not require electronic beam deflection. This enables creating TVs large in size, but only several inches thick.

It utilizes the collision of electrons with a phosphor-coated screen to emit light and applies the same light emission theory as CRTs. That can provide dynamic color expression, a sharp picture, and faster video response.

Another advantage is its low power consumption. SED convert electrical energy into light with higher emission efficiency than other display types.

Watch out for it

Although experts are a bit apprehensive whether SED can deliver what it is promising, the industry is excited and looking forward to this new TV technology. If it works not only will it be great buy for you, but it has all the features to become your prized possession.