MODTHEBOX.COM - Canada's Premier Case Modding Source - Reviews - Samsung SyncMaster 172X TFT-LCD Monitor Review

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Out of the box, the Samsung SyncMaster 172X TFT-LCD monitor looks aesthetically pleasing, combining silver and black highlights for the entire unit. Samsung Canada is marketing this particular unit as part of their mid-range line of consumer TFT-LCD monitors. The SyncMaster 172X measures approximately 14.5" (W) x 14.3" (H) x 7.6" (D) and has a maximum resolution of 1280 x 1024. The total viewable image size of the LCD measures 17 inches with a pixel pitch of 0.264mm. What is impressive about the 172X model compared to the 173B and 171N models previously featured at MTB is that the contrast ratio has been raised to 500:1 and the response time cut down from 25ms to 12ms making this unit a very fast LCD-TFT monitor.

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One of the nice aspects of the Samsung SyncMaster 172X TFT-LCD Monitor is that the unit itself has been designed to be low profile and very compact as seen when placed on the flat surface of a table. The design of the 172X moves away from a traditional metal bezel to support the weight of the unit in favour of a smaller dual hinge retractable monitor stand. The adjustable stand retracts in two places, folding out from behind the unit allowing the display area of 172X to be moved upward and adjusted to a preferred viewing height. Consumers will be pleased to know that this type of ergonomic based feature provides an optimum viewing angle for comfort reducing associated neck strain issues found with rival models. The Samsung SyncMaster 172X TFT-LCD Monitor can be adjusted and positioned for a maximum of 160 degrees.

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At the rear of the unit are three accessible ports which include a 15-pin VGA connection, DVI (Digital Visual Interface), connection and a power connector. I was pleased to see the inclusion of a DVI port since this re-enforces the ideal of using this product in a dual monitor configuration. As part of the feature set, the Samsung SyncMaster 172X TFT-LCD Monitor has a series of small external grey buttons which allow the adjustment of the monitor settings. The buttons are located under the bottom portion of the LCD display and offer simple monitor functions including Auto Adjustment, Onscreen Menu, Volume Adjustment and Magic Bright.