Dear Tech In-Law,
We received a digital picture frame for Christmas and have really enjoyed viewing the pictures. One thing I am concerned about is leaving it on all the time. I don't want to stare at a black screen but I also don't want to wear out the display or have the image burn in. Is it ok to leave it on constantly?
Sonia


Dear Sonia,
Great question. The popularity of digital picture frames over the past year has skyrocketed to new levels. While the digital camera and format has given us many advantages, one glaring issue that still is prevalent is how to get the media off our computer and on display. Plenty of options on how to accomplish this, but it's still challenging to keep up with.

Digital picture frames are one such way to get recent images that have not been printed or maybe some that you do not plan on printing out there on display. As far as leaving the picture frames on, the good thing about a LCD display is that there is not burn-in in or screen damage that can occur such as with older computer monitors and TVs. Over an extended period of time the fluorescent backlight that illuminates the display may eventually fade or burn out. I have seen some estimates from frame manufacturers that state 60,000 to 80,0000 hours might give you half brightness, which would mean if you never turned the display off you might notice some dimming after 7 or so years. If you simply turn them off at night, you've instantly doubled that and can expect the frame to display your memories for many years to come without worry!