A recent study (2005) conducted by the Imaging Science Foundation (ISF) for the IDC and sponsored by Pioneer Electronics, supports the notion that “burn-in” is temporary. “First, while image retention can occur in modern plasmas, the effect is temporary. After the 48-hour torture test, all three of the plasma TVs that were tested showed clearly visible images from the game menu, whereas none of the LCD or MD [micro-display] rear projection-based sets showed any image retention. However, after regular video material (a DVD movie set to continuously loop) was played through the sets for 24 hours, the image completely disappeared from all three plasmas, leaving no trace. Unlike early generation plasmas, where those type of images would not go away and could actually “burn” onto the screen, modern plasma TVs enjoy a combination of more robust screen materials and subtle image-shifting technologies that have rendered this former issue moot.”

The IDC study concluded, “The commonly held beliefs about the viability and performance quality of plasma TVs turn out to be merely myths when held up to the discerning eye of quantifiable testing. In particular, concerns about plasma lifetimes and image retention (“burn in”) are half-truths that may have been legitimate concerns for early generations of plasma displays, but are non-issues with today’s current generation products. Yes, plasmas may show signs of retention if still images are left on the display for very long periods of time (such as 24 hours or more), but even in this extreme example, the result is only temporary. Today’s plasma TVs essentially heal themselves with subsequent viewing of regular TV material. As a result, more common scenarios of 5 to 10 minute (or even several hour) image pauses will not cause permanent damage.”

Joel Silver, Executive Director for the ISF sums up, “The short summary from that work [the IDC study] was that 48 continuous burn-in hours of a video game still frame menu screen was enough to produce a clearly visible but non-permanent “retained” image on many PDPs [plasma display panels] – none of the units showed any long term ill effects after running an additional 24 hours of moving video after the burn in test!  Running a PDP in 4x3 for long periods will still result in uneven wear – that will eventually be visible and is not recommended. Current generation PDPs are far more rugged than early models – but phosphors do wear – for electronic signage with permanent fixed images LCDs are better choices – for home usage the LCD/PDP decisions are application specific and the decision parameters as you well know are now complex.  But those decisions might get easier for dedicated theaters.”

So, that’s pretty much the story. Image retention or “burn-in” has all but vanished from plasma TVs today. Yes, it can still occur, if the display is abused. However, unlike earlier models, today’s plasmas can virtually eliminate “burn-in” via various methods employed by the leading manufactures. According to the experts, it’s a non-issue or myth. Pass me the popcorn!

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