3D is undoubtedly the next incredible step in the development of high definition home entertainment. And over the last year we have seen many new 3D TVs hit the market, allowing us to enjoy Blu-Ray 3D movies, 3D programming and 3D games. However, this amazing but fairly “new” technology comes with a lot of consumer uncertainty about 3D TVs and 3D Blu-Ray players. So here are some questions and answers that can help debunk some lies about enjoying 3D at home.

What is required to watch 3D TV at home?
To view 3D images at home, you will need a 3D-compatible TV as well as a source capable of providing 3D images. This is usually in the form of a 3D Blu-Ray player, but can be from your satellite box, game console, or from an internet streaming source. If you are using an A/V receiver or home theater, it must support 3D. Otherwise, you’ll have to do without the high-resolution Blu-Ray surround sound that an HDMI connection to your A/V receiver requires. The alternative is to get a Blu-Ray player, like the Panasonic DMP-BDT310 or Samsung BD-D6700, with two HDMI outputs. Lastly, you need a pair of 3D glasses for each viewer.
– 3DTV
– 3-D glasses
– 3D Blu-Ray Player
– 3D content

What HDMI cables do I need?
There can be some confusion about which version of HDMI cable is needed to support 3D. The new High Speed ​​HDMI 1.4 version cables were introduced with 3D specifications, so many consumers believed it was necessary if you want the 3D effect to work. This is not the case. The fact is that it is better to ignore the specifications of HDMI cables. Mainly because all cables, expensive and cheap, are basically made the same. You should NOT need to buy any new HDMI cables as most can handle 3D signals, even older 1.3 versions.

Can only view 3D images on a 3D TV?
No. The TV’s 3D feature can be turned off so that all 3D TVs can display standard 2D content without any issues and without the need for glasses. The video quality of these 2D images is not affected in any way.

Is 3D too expensive for someone on a tight budget?
The cost of a 3D TV depends on many factors, such as screen size and additional features. The bigger the screen and the more extra features a TV has; more expensive it will be. For the most part, you can expect to pay a minimum of $100.00 more for a 3D TV compared to a non-3D model. But keep in mind that almost all mid- to high-end HDTVs released on the market are 3D-capable. So while 3D TVs may be more expensive, current trends indicate that eventually all HDTVs will be 3D compatible.

Can I use any pair of 3D glasses with my 3D TV?
Despite the demand for universal 3D glasses, all active 3D glasses are proprietary to each manufacturer. So if you have a Sony 3D TV, only Sony Active 3D Glasses will work. And everyone has to wear a pair of 3D glasses at all times to view 3D images. They can be worn over regular glasses. But the 3D effects will not be seen if you are lying on your side or from a far away angle. Glasses-free or autostereoscopic 3D TVs are in the works and will launch in Japan. But this technology is still in the early stages and is very expensive.

Is there any 3D content from internet streaming services?
Vudu offers 3D movies in a side-by-side format. This service must first be available on select Blu-Ray players or televisions. Samsung offers a TV app with some 3D movie trailers. Most believe that Netflix, YouTube and Amazon Video-On-Demand will soon start offering 3D content.

Does the 3D effect cause headaches?
Comfort with the 3D effect will vary from viewer to viewer. But watching some 3D TV content can cause headaches when viewed for long periods of time. Most experts believe that this is not due to 3D technology but to poorly produced 3D content. The best produced 3D usually comes from theatrical films. So if you’re worried about eye strain, it might be a good idea to watch a few 3D movies before considering a 3D TV.

How much 3D content is available?
There is still a small amount of 3D content at the moment. There are around 50 titles available with over 20 more announced by the end of this year. Little by little we are seeing more content available.

What TV shows and networks are in 3D now?
Apart from some sports programs, there are not many television programs. The most popular is ESPN 3D available on US-based DirectTV, Comcast, AT&T U-verse and Time Warner cable. DirecTV has also launched n3D, an exclusive project with Panasonic and 3net, which is a 24-hour 3D channel Discovery, IMAX and Sony, which specializes in nature programs and documentaries.

What about 3D games?
Just like 3D movies, 3D games are few and far between. The PS3 supports the largest selection of games like Gran Turismo 5, Call of Duty: Black Ops and plans to release more in 2011: Uncharted 3 and Killzone 3. You can also find some 3D games for Xbox: Batman: Arkham Asylum and contra refund: BO.