LCD versus CRT displays: a comparison of visual search performance for colored symbols

Abstract

Visual search performance for tactical symbols was examined with liquid-crystal (LCD) and cathode-ray tube (CRT) displays. Twenty-four adult participants (19 men, 5 women; mean age 41 years) searched for navy tactical display symbols on a map background. LCD and CRT displays of similar size and resolution (52 cm diagonal, 1280 x 1024 pixels) were used. Viewing angle (0 degrees vs. 60 degrees of azimuth), set size, target color (blue, red, or white), target presence, and search type (feature vs. conjunction) were also manipulated. Participants showed reduced sensitivity for red and blue symbols viewed 60 degrees off axis with the LCD relative to on-axis LCD, or to the CRT on or off axis. Colored symbols viewed off axis on the LCD produced longer response times in feature search and lower search efficiency in conjunction search. The results argue against the use of current LCD technology when off-axis viewing is likely and color coding is used.