On previous generation Ambilight models, light was only projected to two sides rather than four, and with the built-in canvas on all sides, you're guaranteed even dispersion without utilizing your own wall for the background. Its advisable, but youd much better ensure that you have room at home theater setup for a setup of this size.Much better Ambilight 4 feature, the Philips 42PF9831D has lots of new or enhanced functions to tout. For starters, it incorporates Pixel Plus 3 Hd technological know-how which is designed to help improve the vibrant and sharper images put out by High definition signals. Tips on how to boost an High definition image? Well it is all subjective needless to say, but the premise the following is that the Pixel Plus 3 High definition technology will take the pixel of the image getting shown and blend it in a way to match the surrounding pixels. The result should certainly be a slightly softer and more natural picture.The second major technologies at work here is Philips Clear LCD function. Ever observe although watching a sports event or a scrolling stock ticker on an LCD, that it just didnt seem correct? We have observed ghosting and trailing on the older LCD TVs normally as a result of a slow screen refresh rate, among other factors. The Philips 42PF9831D also has a 16:9 aspect ratio and a 1366 x 768p resolution, including a 4500:1 contrast ratio. Sorry folks, no 1080p here.As for connectivity, the Philips 42PF9831D pretty a lot supports it all. About the correct side with the TV it has an 7 -in-1 memory card slot that is compatible with Compact Flash I and II, Sony Memory Stick, SD card or Mini SD Card, Smart Media, Micro Drive, and Multi Media Card. The 42PF9831D also comes with 2 component video input, 2 HDMI inputs, S/PDIF coaxial digital in, Cable card support and two USB ports.We love the design and seem with the Philips 42PF9831D TV. While the set is larger than a standard 42-inch LCD due to its built-in canvas, the frosted glass stand and black China LED Spot Lights Manufacturers bezel on top of the white canvas give it a very modern edge. In addition, the remote compliments the set with an equally sleek, hip look. Philips certainly took a gamble here with its design, and we believe they put their funds in the right place.Upon powering up the Philips 42PF9831D TV you are greeted by an onscreen wizard, which reminds us of something you would see from a PC system. It will walk you through every action with the setup process and ask what type of signal you're making use of, regardless of whether it is Cable, OTA (Over-the-air), High definition, or SD etc. Once you let it know where you'll be getting your content material from, the set will automatically scan and program the channels. Now, one thing you will need to watch out for is that the Philips 42PF9831D only arrives with 1 coaxial input. So if you intent to connecting regular analog cable (please tell us you aren't), AND an antenna for catching High definition signals, you might be out of luck. Generally the Philips 42PF9831D actually does deliver on its promises. The picture high quality looks excellent from typical viewing distances (7-15 feet) and we only noticed picture fading and color loss at one of the most extreme viewing angles. Philips says that you simply will be able to watch Hi-def top quality content material at up to 170 degree without picture loss, and they positive got close (but we did observe some degradation). For an LCD though, we are extremely impressed while using Philips 42PF9831D capabilities.