BenQ intros first 21.5-inch, 16:9 desktop LCD

BenQ on Friday claimed an industry first by updating its E series computer displays with a new, extra-sharp model. The E2200HDA is the first known desktop LCD to use a 16:9 aspect ratio that fits widescreen HD content without the black bars that come with most 16:10, non-native screens. It also stands as one of the most densely-packed displays outside of pro-level hardware: while measuring an uncommon 21.5 inches diagonally, the screen provides a full 1920x1080 resolution and will display 1080p content from Blu-ray, game consoles, or other sources without losing any detail.

The electronics designer also promises an extremely vivid image with a 10,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio and automatic color adjustment. Pixel response times are the same as for recent 16:10 displays at an average 5ms, BenQ says. Not all input options are detailed, though the screen is known to have built-in stereo speakers.

Two additional E series displays are expected to ship as well that will improve pixel response times to just 2ms and will have both DVI and HDMI for video; one of these will include a 24-inch display that also fits the wider aspect ratio. An entirely new M series will also appear with similar sizes but which adds a 2-megapixel webcam and a third, VGA output to catch other computer sources.

Shipments for the E2200HDA and the additional unnamed displays start in the summer but will primarily center around Asia Pacific, China, Europe, and Latin America.