ASUS MK241H: 24″ LCD Monitor
ASUS MK241H
Size: 24″
Aspect Ratio: 16:10
Pixel Format: 1920 x 1200
Contrast Ratio: 3000:1
Input: VGA, DVI-D, HDMI
Other: 1.3MP webcam
The MK241H looks like a solid design. I like the dual metallic-gray and black treatment. The bulging webcam could have been better integrated into the overall design though.
Curious about webcams in the display, as the remind me of Combo VCR/DVD drives… if you have a problem with one and need service…well, you get the idea. I’ve seen a number of companies online with displays with these webcams built in, but somehow they don’t show up in retail stores (U.S. at least). Have you seen any up close? And if so, what wad your impression on the video quality? Any insight why stores don’t have them? Thx. P
auditt27
March 5, 2008 at 11:39 pm
Having a VCR built into a TV is asking for trouble. The VCR breaks more frequently and easily than the TV. So when the VCR breaks, that effectively breaks the entire unit. The important point is to have devices that lasts about equally the same to be integrated.
Now, for webcams on a LCD monitor, all-in-one or notebook PC, the dynamics are slightly different. If the webcams are similar in longevity to digital cameras, then I don’t see much of a problem with it being integrated. I have been using the same digital camera for 5 years (and it has even came back from life after a some ocean water got into it). So, if the webcams have a similar durability and longevity, the integration into a device such as a LCD monitor shouldn’t pose too much of a problem.
Video quality is probably just good enough for video IMs and quick photos of yourself and a friend or two. It’s a fun thing, and I would use it primarily for just that: fun!
As to the retail question, I’m not sure. But I do have a guess: retail stores can be slightly slower than online stores to actually get the units into the US, distribute it nation wide and then put it up on the shelves for all of us to see. On the other hand, online stores take the photos, update the site and that’s it.
I hope I’ve answered your questions. Thanks for posting your question and have a good one!
Jin
March 6, 2008 at 12:07 pm