How to choose the right-sized TV for your house

APART from getting slimmer, the latest TVs are also becoming wider. The square box has been replaced with an almost wafer-thin widescreen display which has an aspect ratio of 16:9.

For some viewers who are looking to replace their old tube TV — or perhaps buy a second flatscreen for another room — one of the many questions being asked is just how big or small the panel should be to assure comfortable viewing.

The first thing to do is establish how far it will be between the panel and the couch — this is called the viewing distance.

This distance can then be taken and used to determine the maximum and minimum-sized TV to suit the room.

Those with the "go big or go home" attitude should take note of the distance they would be sitting from the screen before splashing out on the biggest screen they can afford.

Having a screen that's too big for the viewing space means you'll be sitting too close and see every pixel on the screen.