3D is certainly the next incredible step in the development of High-Definition Home Entertainment. And over the past year we have seen many new 3D TVs arrive in the marketplace, allowing us to enjoy 3D Blu-ray movies, 3D programming and 3D games. However, this unbelievable but rather “new” technology comes with a lot of consumer uncertainty about 3D TVs and 3D Blu-ray players. So here are a few questions and answers that may help in disproving some untruth’s about enjoying 3D at home.

• What is required to view 3D TV at home?

To view any 3D images at home you will need a 3D capable television as well as a source capable of providing 3D images. This is usually in the form of a 3D Blu-ray Player but it can be from your satellite box, gaming console or from a streaming internet source. If you are using an A/V receiver or home theater it needs to be 3D capable. Otherwise you will have to go without high-resolution blu-ray surround sound that require a HDMI connection to your A/V receiver. The alternative is to get a Blu-ray Player, such as Panasonic DMP-BDT310 or Samsung BD-D6700, with dual HDMI outputs. Lastly, you need a pair of 3D glasses for each viewer.
- 3D TV
- 3D Glasses
- 3D Blu-ray Player
- 3D Content

• What HDMI cables do I need?

There maybe some confusion as to what version of HDMI cable is needed to support 3D. The new high-speed HDMI 1.4 version cables were introduced with 3D specifications, so many consumers believed it was required if you want the 3D effect to work. This is not the case. The fact is you are best to ignoring the specifications of HDMI cables. Mainly because all cables, expensive and inexpensive, are basically manufactured the same. You should NOT need to purchase any new HDMI cables as most can handle 3D signals, even older 1.3 versions.

• Can you only see 3D images on a 3D TV?

No. The 3D feature on the TV can be shut off so that every 3D television can display standard 2D content without any trouble and there is no need for glasses. The video quality of these 2D images are not effected in any way.

• Is 3D too expensive for someone on a budget?

The cost of a 3D TV depends on many factors such as the screen size and extra features. The bigger the screen and more extra features a TV has; the more expensive it will be. For the most part you can expect to pay a minimum of $100.00 more for a 3D TV versus a non-3D model. But keep in mind, almost every mid-level to high-level HDTV being released is 3D capable. So while 3D TVs can be more expensive, the current trends are indicating that eventually every HDTV will be 3D compatible.

• Can I use any pair of 3D glasses with my 3D TV?

Despite a call for universal 3D glasses, all active 3D glasses are the proprietary for each manufacturer. So if you have a Sony 3D TV, only Sony’s active 3D glasses will work. And everyone has to wear a pair of 3D glasses at all times to view 3D images. They can be worn over regular glasses. But 3D effects will not be seen if you are lying sideways or from a far off-angle. Glasses-free, or autostereoscopic 3D TVs are in the works and being released in Japan. But this technology is still in the early stages and is very expensive.

• Are there any 3D content from Internet streaming services?

Vudu offers 3D movies in the side-by-side format. This service must first be available on selected Blu-ray Players or TVs. Samsung offers a TV app with some 3D movie trailers. Most believe that Netflix, YouTube and Amazon Video-On-Demand will soon begin offering 3D content.

• Does 3D effect cause headaches?

Comfort with the 3D effect will vary from viewer to viewer. But watching some 3D TV content can cause headaches when viewed over long periods of time. Most experts believe this is not caused by the 3D technology but because of badly produced 3D content. The best produced 3D usually comes from theatrical movies. So if you are worried about eye fatigue, it maybe a good idea to take in a few 3D movies before considering a 3D TV.

• How much 3D content is available?

There is still just a small amount of 3D content right now. There are about 50 or so titles available with over 20 more announce for later this year. We are slowly seeing more content becoming available.

• What TV shows and networks are in 3D now?

Aside from some sports programming, there are not many TV shows. The most popular one is ESPN 3D available on US-based DirectTV, Comcast, AT&T U-verse and Time Warner cable. DirecTV also has launched n3D – an exclusive project with Panasonic and 3net which is a 24 hour 3D channel from Discovery, Imax and Sony – specializing in nature and documentary programs.

• What about 3D gaming?

Just like 3D movies, 3D games are few and far between. The PS3 supports the largest selection of games such as Gran Turismo 5, Call of Duty: Black Ops and plans to release more in 2011 – Uncharted 3 and Killzone 3. You can find some 3D games for the XBox as well – Batman: Arkham Asylum and COD: BO. -I Have Seen The Future Of Video Gaming -