Wireless Monitors

Choosing a wireless monitor

Wireless monitors are a very new technology that has only been around for a couple of years. Wireless computer monitors are available in two different modes. One uses a USB stick transmitter and a VGA receiver; the other has the wireless unit built into the monitor during manufacturing. Using a wireless monitor has several advantages: it reduces wires and need for cable management, the user can be anywhere in the room, and the computer can be farther away from the monitor than a cord would allow.

Because of the limitations that the wireless technology has, however, it should only be used as a second monitor. In order to be transmitted to the wireless monitor, data needs to be compressed, resulting in inevitable loss. Another problem is that you can’t run a video game or watch an HD video, as the processing power of the computer will not be able to compress the video as well as run the application. Finally, wireless computer monitor batteries have a limited lifespan and will need to be replaced from time to time.

Some companies are now targeting business clients with wireless monitors. The ViewSonic wireless monitor is a lightweight device that is geared toward being an extension of a business person’s computer. ViewSonic monitors are generally considered a solid, mid-range option offering great quality for the price.

Wireless Computer to Monitor Devices

These types of systems use an external wireless receiver to translate signals sent from the transmitter. A USB transmitter sends its signals to a receiver that connects to an existing monitor. It’s a great application for working on dual monitors as it eliminates the need for a specialized graphics card.

The transmitter compresses the video information and sends it to the receiver where it un-compresses the data. These transmitters send the information at anywhere from 120 to 150 megabytes per second and use a lossless compressor. Resolution for images can be as high as 1680x1050 dpi with 32-bit color. Transmission range is anywhere from 5 to 10 meters depending on obstacles. Some of these receivers support DVI or VGA connection ports. The cost of these types of monitors is significantly higher than standard monitors. A built-in wireless system can cost as high as $150 more than a non-wireless monitor, whereas the wireless monitor adapter is available from $150 to $250.