Quantcast
PCWorld.com is upgrading some back-end systems. Some site features, such as user registration, may be temporarily unavailable.

Hitachi CML174SXW

This LCD renders text better than it displays graphics, though it comes with extra on-screen controls that others lack.

Mick Lockey

Tuesday, April 08, 2003 01:00 AM PDT

WHAT'S HOT: Letters on sample text documents looked fairly sharp. A test showed even brightness across the edges of the screen.

WHAT'S NOT: The unit doesn't have USB ports, built-in speakers, or audio input jacks. While these extras aren't critical, we've seen them on other models in the same price range.

WHAT ELSE: The monitor's image-quality scores for text and graphics placed it squarely in the middle of the pack. On a color-scale test screen, gradations of colors were overly dark and hard to discern at the farthest edges of the color scale. On the upside, the panel rendered lively colors on a photo of summer fruit, displaying deep reds and kiwi greens.

The LCD cannot pivot or swivel on its base, but it can tilt back about 30 degrees. The panel can be detached and mounted on a wall with an optional bracket.

Hitachi's documentation includes a user's manual with chapters covering installation, using the on-screen controls, and troubleshooting common problems.

UPSHOT: Though it's not as stylish as other units, this no-frills LCD would suit those who spend most of their day working with typical business documents; however, better bargains are available.


SUMMARY
Hitachi CML174SXW





$