CTX EX710F

At first glance, the 17in EX710F appears to have a truly flat screen, but in fact, the CRT is curved. The curvature has been optically eliminated by another glass panel between the CRT and the flat screen. This does produce a visually flat picture, but the down side is that you end up with double reflections.

The shadow-mask CRT has a 16in viewable diagonal and a maximum resolution of 1600 x 1200, refreshing at 77Hz. The latter may be impressive, but most users will find this a strain on the eyes. More appropriate for a 17in model is a setting of 1024 x 768.

In terms of focus, the EX710F performs admirably, a virtue of the fine 0.25mm dot pitch. The picture is also commendable, with colour purity and contrast intensity rivalling those typically found on aperture-grille units.

Power regulation is also acceptable, although there's some evidence of streaking.

Unfortunately, the geometry was a little awry in our review model, especially across the top of the screen where the picture seemed to bow inwards.

We also had trouble trying to correct a slight barrelling to the left side of the display. This aside, the adjustment setting for corner geometry is useful for straightening up the sides of the picture.

All the usual set of adjustments are here, although there are no colour convergence controls. This isn't rare on a budget 17in monitor, but if the colour beams migrate from their preset positions, you can't re-align them.

On the plus side you do get a user-defined option of setting the density for all three colours. Externally the chassis is standard, but it does come with a narrow bezel that enhances the size of the screen. A captive D-SUB cable around the back is the only form of connector.

Contact
CTX: 01923 810 800, www.ctxeurope.com