What is a LCD Screen Protector?

What is a LCD Screen Protector?

by wiseGEEK.com

A liquid crystal display (LCD) screen protector is a thin film that is placed over an LCD screen. The protector gives a shield from many things that could prove damaging or harmful to the delicate screens. They are available for any electronic device that uses an LCD screen, including everything from televisions to cameras.

An LCD screen protector is usually made from a polyurethane film that is clear and heavy duty. The film was originally produced for United States military applications and was then adapted for consumer use. As the public popularity of the fragile LCD screen has grown, so have the damage claims on everyday technological devices. These damages can cost individual consumers hundreds to thousands of dollars. The LCD screen protector attempts to lower the chance of consumer damage.

For the average consumer, an LCD screen protector gives insurance against scratches and gouges that can be caused by normal household use. Dust and pet hair can cause minor scratches to an LCD screen if not cleaned properly. Families find some comfort in knowing that toddlers will not be able to create gouges in the screen with markers or toys.

Some companies say that their LCD screen protector can prevent scratches from metal objects including keys. Others say that the screen protectors can take the place of a phone or camera case and provide the same protection as a case without the bulk. While they may seem extreme, many companies back these claims up with convincing video evidence.

Businesses and industry find the protectors particularly useful, since their electronics are used more heavily than the average consumer's devices. The protectors can increase the life of screens in an office setting, while industrial settings find greater protection against the mishaps that occur around machinery. The LCD screen protector can reduce the chance of damage and cut down on replacement costs, thereby saving businesses money.

An added benefit that most screen protectors can provide is to reduce glare and increase sharpness. They filter ultraviolet light and can reduce the ability to see fingerprints and other nuisance spots. Some LCD screen protectors can even improve the color of the screen in particular environments, such as those with lighting that usually washes out the color.

Protectors are available with other built-in options. One of these enhancements is an anti-microbial quality that claims to reduce the chance of passing viruses among those who work at shared computers. Others are made specifically for outdoor use to reduce sun glare. These are helpful for electronics often used on the go like cell phones and cameras.