BenQ stretches out with 16:9 displays

BenQ, one of the 12 brands that make up the BenQ group, has released four new displays that are what the company refers to as full-HD.

The new models employ a 16:9 aspect ratio, compared to the 16:10 ratio that is standard with today's displays. The company claimed that this screen shape removes the need for black bars when viewing 1080p video content that is becoming prevalent with formats such as Blu-ray.

BenQ UK managing director Ajen Laio told IT PRO: "I expect this format to become mainstream in the next two years. LCD panel manufacturers favour the 16:9 aspect ratio as it is more economical to produce. While it's starting in the consumer space, it will eventually move over into business displays as well."

BenQ sources its panels from its sister company AU Optronics, one of the largest manufacturers of LCD panels in the world.

The four new models consists of the 24in wide, E2400HD, and M2400HD and the 21.5in E2200HD and M2200HD. All models offer a 1,920 x 1,080 resolution, HDMI 1.3 and HDCP enabled DVI ports, a 10,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio, a two ms grey-to-grey, response time, a headphone jack and integrated stereo speakers.

The E series features a black piano finish, and the M series, a white piano finish. The M series also offers a 2-megapixel webcam, perched on top of the display for video conferencing.

BenQ also said that it offers a three-year on site swap out warranty for fautly units. "The 15 or so that you may initially save [on competitor screens] are lost when you have to pay to send back your faulty display, so we feel our three-year warranty on-site is a worthy differentiator of our products," said Royce Lye of BenQ UK.

The displays will be available to purchase from the end of September.

Benny Har-Even

Benny Har-Even is a twenty-year stalwart of technology journalism who is passionate about all areas of the industry, but telecoms and mobile and home entertainment are among his chief interests. He has written for many of the leading tech publications in the UK, such as PC Pro and Wired, and previously held the position of technology editor at ITPro before regularly contributing as a freelancer.

Known affectionately as a ‘geek’ to his friends, his passion has seen him land opportunities to speak about technology on BBC television broadcasts, as well as a number of speaking engagements at industry events.