Everything 3D Guide — Explore the Wonder

It’s a feature on a standard HDTV with the capability to display three-dimensional images from 3D content. Right now, alongside a growing catalogue of 3D Blu-ray movies, some 3D programming is available on cable and pay-per-view and new 3D films and shows are being made all the time. There are also entire 3D cable networks currently under development.

3D TVs play conventional programming, just as any other TV would, and many of them come with a feature that converts 2D images to 3D. If you have a Samsung 3D TV, all you have to do is hit the “3D” button on the remote, put on your Samsung 3D Active Glasses, and enjoy 3D thrills from a 2D source.

1. The lenses in a pair of active-shutter glasses switch between black and clear—first the left eye is blocked, then the right eye, then the left, and so on.

2. This occurs in sync with the TV, which is itself alternating left and right images at two slightly different angles.

3. It happens so quickly that the brain sees both angles at the same time, thus creating the perception of 3D, just like in real life.

1. A 3D-enabled TV or 3D-enabled Projector. You can find the 3D feature available in certain high-end LED and Plasma HDTVs. Many 3D TVs are top-of-the line models with impressive depth, high resolution, and rich, full colour whether you’re watching 3D or 2D.

2. A 3D-enabled Blu-ray disc player, HD-cable, or HD-satellite box. To play 3D Blu-ray discs, you’ll need a 3D-enabled Blu-ray player along with a high-speed HDMI cable for connecting your 3D TV to a 3D-ready Blu-ray player. In the case of your cable or satellite box, your current one may already work or you may need to check with your provider for an upgrade.

3. 3D Content. Currently, alongside a growing catalog of 3D Blu-ray movies, some 3D programming is available on cable and pay-per-view. New 3D content is being created all the time—more and more films and shows are being shot and broadcast in 3D and entire 3D cable networks are in the works.

4. 3D Glasses. There’s no watching 3D without them. Be sure to get the same brand of glasses as your TV—3D technology is proprietary to each manufacturer, so one company’s glasses will not be compatible with a different company’s TV.

Can I watch regular TV on my 3D TV?

Yes—3D TVs plays conventional programming, just as any other TV would, and are also equipped to provide a unique experience of the wealth of 3D content coming your way.

Do I always need to wear 3D glasses when watching TV?

No—the only time you’ll need to wear these special glasses is when you’re viewing 3D content. Otherwise, your TV can still play 2D movies and shows the same way you’re used to seeing them.

What does “3D-ready” mean?

The definition of "3D-ready" varies by manufacturer, but typically means that the TV can display 3D content. The easiest way to see if your TV is capable of displaying 3D content is to check the manufacturer's web site or feature materials.

The easiest way to see if your TV is 3D ready is to check for a “3D Sync Out” connection on the back panel.

What’s the difference between native 3D and virtual 3D?

Native 3D is content that was filmed using 3D cameras. Virtual 3D is content that was originally filmed in 2D, but is being converted to 3D format by your high-definition TV. There is a qualitative difference between the two.

How should I clean my 3D glasses?

The proper way to clean your 3D glasses is by doing it one side of each lens at a time. 3D glasses actually have two screens in each lens, so putting pressure on both sides at the same time squeezes the two lenses together, causing them to come in contact and distort 3D viewing. Use a microfiber cloth to clean one side first, then the other.

Avoid using any chemicals containing alcohol, solvents, or surfactant, or chemicals such as wax, benzene, thinner, or lubricant. These may result in discoloration or cracks on the lens surface. Also, you should never spray cleaning fluid directly onto the glasses—spray onto the cloth instead.