Wondering about 3D TV?

There's been a lot of talk recently about 3D TV, especially during and following the big CES show in Las Vegas a few weeks back. With so many announcements about the future of 3D TV and products - the idea has entered the minds of many folks outside of the technology community.

For example, a friend of mine recently explained to me that he would have 3D TV soon, as he had heard ESPN was going to start broadcasting in 3D. I started to ask him about the new TV he would need to invest in, how he would like wearing glasses whenever he watched, etc. Not to my surprise, he didn't know about any of the pieces that go into making the 3D TV experience (not only the channel or movie, but the TV, the glasses, the new players...), he though it would be as simple as flipping to the channel. 

I suspect this is true for many people - people have heard fleeting mentions of "3D TV: Coming Soon," but what does it really entail?

CNET's Crave blog has put together a fantastic FAQ on all things 3D TV. From what TVs will be needed to the particular glasses that your family will need to wear - it's all there. 

Some interesting tidbits:

- Viewer comfort is a big concern for 3D content producers - as 3D can sometimes cause disorientation or headaches after extended periods (for some people)

- The 3D glasses you will need to watch 3D TV are not the same as the ones you use to watch regular 3D movies in the theater

- Between 5 and 10 percent of Americans cannot see 3D due to stereo blindness.

- Glasses alone could cost upwards of $100 a pair (although no maker has specified exact cost)

Check out the Crave article to see the rest of the FAQ and learn more about 3D TV technology.

-posted by Stephanie