I did the research on Vizio's P42HD and recently purchased one. I've seen many questions about this product, which I thought I would assist in answering.
What is the difference between the P42HD and the P42HDe?
(From Vizio): the "e" model is the latest model. It has a 5000:1 contrast ratio, versus a 3000:1 for the non "e" model. The glass on the "e" is made by a different manufacturer than the non "e". The color of the unit is darker grey on the "e".
If you just purchased a P42HD, how do you know if you have the "e" or not?
(From Vizio): The model number on the box, the manual and their website does not reflect the "e". The way you tell is because (1) the box says 5000:1 contrast, (2) the beginning of the serial numbers are as follows:
for "e" model: DTPBBTAE ...
for non "e" model: DTPABSAE ...
What scan rate will the YCbCr inputs display?
(From Vizio): "we admit, we probably regret providing a YCbCr input, since that input can display a maximum of 480i." The two S video and two standard video inputs also display a maximum of 480i, so the YCbCr input is almost useless for advanced scan viewing. Why didn't Vizio give us two YPbPr inputs, so customers could have an HD input and a DVD input? You're likely to find that Vizio wants to sell their Bravo DVD player, which is one of few DVD players that has a DVI output. The Vizio can display HD scan rates using the DVI input as well.
I have three HD components to feed the P42HD, but the product only accepts two (YpbPr and DVI).
If your HD cable or satellite box has an HDMI output, get a cable that has HDMI on one end and DVI on the other. Must be DVI-D because HDMI is digital only, and so is the P42HD. You also have a DVD player and an X Box to play HD. The JVC JXS111 HD Compatible Component Video Switcher accepts 4 YPbPr inputs that you can connect to single P42HD input. Vizio needs to toss that YCbCr input, it's useless.
Wall mount option
I'm going to try a home made wall mount this weekend, using four steel 4 foot L shaped brackets from hardware store. Two four foot pieces attach horizontally on the wall into three studs. Two four foot pieces attach horizontally to the 4 mounting screws on the back of the monitor. I'll lift the TV and lay two brackets attached to TV on top of two brackets attached to wall. Line up the holes on the brackets and insert 4 bolts at the ends, hand tighten.
My opinion of clarity: SDTV looks better than my regular TV running 480i. And when I run HD through the P42HD, it is breathtaking. Extremely clear, sharp, vivid colors and contrast. What a value.
What is the difference between the P42HD and the P42HDe?
(From Vizio): the "e" model is the latest model. It has a 5000:1 contrast ratio, versus a 3000:1 for the non "e" model. The glass on the "e" is made by a different manufacturer than the non "e". The color of the unit is darker grey on the "e".
If you just purchased a P42HD, how do you know if you have the "e" or not?
(From Vizio): The model number on the box, the manual and their website does not reflect the "e". The way you tell is because (1) the box says 5000:1 contrast, (2) the beginning of the serial numbers are as follows:
for "e" model: DTPBBTAE ...
for non "e" model: DTPABSAE ...
What scan rate will the YCbCr inputs display?
(From Vizio): "we admit, we probably regret providing a YCbCr input, since that input can display a maximum of 480i." The two S video and two standard video inputs also display a maximum of 480i, so the YCbCr input is almost useless for advanced scan viewing. Why didn't Vizio give us two YPbPr inputs, so customers could have an HD input and a DVD input? You're likely to find that Vizio wants to sell their Bravo DVD player, which is one of few DVD players that has a DVI output. The Vizio can display HD scan rates using the DVI input as well.
I have three HD components to feed the P42HD, but the product only accepts two (YpbPr and DVI).
If your HD cable or satellite box has an HDMI output, get a cable that has HDMI on one end and DVI on the other. Must be DVI-D because HDMI is digital only, and so is the P42HD. You also have a DVD player and an X Box to play HD. The JVC JXS111 HD Compatible Component Video Switcher accepts 4 YPbPr inputs that you can connect to single P42HD input. Vizio needs to toss that YCbCr input, it's useless.
Wall mount option
I'm going to try a home made wall mount this weekend, using four steel 4 foot L shaped brackets from hardware store. Two four foot pieces attach horizontally on the wall into three studs. Two four foot pieces attach horizontally to the 4 mounting screws on the back of the monitor. I'll lift the TV and lay two brackets attached to TV on top of two brackets attached to wall. Line up the holes on the brackets and insert 4 bolts at the ends, hand tighten.
My opinion of clarity: SDTV looks better than my regular TV running 480i. And when I run HD through the P42HD, it is breathtaking. Extremely clear, sharp, vivid colors and contrast. What a value.
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