14 DAY TRIAL // With each new monitor they release, display solutions developers and manufacturers seem quite intent on bringing the greatest possible performance while staying at a reasonably low power consumption. On the other hand, there are certain market segments where end-users are willing to overlook power consumption woes and large prices, as long as the actual performance and image quality of their new panels is suited to their needs. EIZO's latest LCD, known as the ColorEdge CG245W, appears to be headed for this very segment.
The fresh display uses an IPS panel, measures 24 inches and is intended for use in professional graphics (pre-press, digital photography, video editing and post production work), especially by end-users that can detect subtle tone differences and nuances. As such, the monitor does not shrink from consuming 100W if it means it can cater to these needs.
This power consumption is significantly higher than that of most monitors launched over the past several months, but EIZO makes up for it through the product's 1,920 x 1,200 pixel resolution, 5ms (G2G) response time, contrast ratio of 850:1, brightness of 270 cd/m2 and the ability to reproduce 98% of the Adobe RGB color space. Not only that, but the company has even implemented a feature, which makes the monitor unique, namely “a built-in calibration sensor and self-calibrating capability.”
The calibration device is built in the upper bezel and can be scheduled to activate at user-selected times. The PC itself is not necessary to use this feature, as the scheduling function can be accessed through the on-screen menu. Of course, users may also employ the ColorNavigator calibration software if they wish. Basically, a specific time and interval are chosen when self-calibration occurs. This means the display will calibrate even outside of work hours, when turned off and in the absence of the owner.
For added convenience and productivity, EIZO's ColorEdge CG245W comes with a FlexStand, which allows the screen to be swiveled, tilted, rotated 90 degrees and height-adjusted. The display should start selling in the next few days, at an unspecified price that will likely exceed $1,000.