San Rafael, Calif. — In addition to improving picture quality, video calibration can also reduce on-mode energy consumption of high-definition televisions (HDTVs), according to a study from THX Ltd. The study, which evaluated plasma and LCD HDTV performance, finds that video calibration improves energy efficiency by up to 50 percent, depending on the display’s technology platform, screen size and model year.
The research demonstrated in all cases that a calibrated viewing mode consumed less energy than Vivid and Dynamic modes, with a consumer savings of between 15 to 50 percent, said THX. A properly calibrated HDTV, in some cases, can save consumers up to $40 to $50 per year, based on four hours of use per day at $0.1136 per kilowatt hours (kWH), according to the study. This is the average residential rate as defined by the U.S. Energy Information Administration.
The study finds that plasma HDTVs manufactured prior to 2008 achieved the highest levels of energy savings after professional calibration, followed by LCDs. The research also confirmed that larger screens consume more power, said THX.
“Newer HDTV models are using less energy than ever before as a result of advances in panel manufacturing,” said John Dahl, director of education at THX, in a statement. “While the U.S. Department of Energy’s ENERGY STAR standard is driving manufacturers to reduce on-mode energy consumption, both new and older plasma and LCD HDTVs can experience additional energy savings as a result of professional video calibration.”