Older readers may remember a television maker called Admiral. It was started 43 years ago as Admiral Overseas Corporation in Taiwan, but has evolved through time. It switched wholly to monitor production in the 1980s, but reintroduced televisions to its lineup in 2005. While AOC is not quite a household name these days, it’s very likely that most readers have used a device manufactured by AOC’s manufacturer. AOC is the brand of the factory, TPV Technology Limited, the largest display manufacturer in the world. AOC’s products are available in several stores, including RadioShack, K-Mart, Sears, Costco, Staples, and more. AOC showed many products at CES this year, including new computer displays, new televisions, and a line of all-in-one PCs.
Computer Monitors
AOC launched three new major series of monitors this year at CES: the 36, 40, and 37 series. The out-of-order numbering for the product ranges is unintentional; each number indicates a unique set of selling points of the series. The 36 series is entry level, and can be LCD or LED. Most of AOC’s offerings these days are LED, so the LCD is a real cost saver while sacrificing quality. The 40 series is at the mainsteam level, and has acrylic finish with an engraving on the back of the unit.
The 37 series is the high-end series, with 22″ and 24″ models. Both are full 1080p with HDMI and feature a floating frame design with a desk light. The desk light can be dimmed or shut off using the on-screen display (OSD).
The 40 and 37 series have a 2,000,000:1 contract ratio, with the 36 series at 60,000:1. All have a 5ms response time. The prices will be 936Swa for $139.99, e2237Fwh for $229.99, e2040s for $159.99, e2240Vw for $199.99, and e2440Vw for $249.99. The V22 is a super slim monitor being replaced by the 37 series.
The MF monitor is a forthcoming monitor with a built-in TV tuner. Unfortunately, it’s not aimed for the US market yet.
AOC showed off a touchscreen laptop monitor, the e2239Fwh. This unit, which our AOC representative nicknamed the “laptop buddy” is designed to replace a laptop’s monitor while connected. The user can slide the laptop underneath the monitor and use its keyboard while using the 22″ display provided by the monitor. Because the user is already so close, he or she could feasibly use the touchscreen, as well. It has VGA input as well as dual HDMI input. There’s dual port USB hub and Kensington security slot. Its full 1080p resolution, 8,000,000:1 contrast ratio, 5 ms response time, and an “affordable” price point make it an excellent device for students or other folks who may have limited space but a need for serious screen real estate.
AOC is working on a line of gaming monitors, too, eyeing up the new 3D movement. The LED response time is sufficient, but they’re working on the requisite 120 Hz I/O for true 3D content.
