LCD TV DVD Combi

In the UK, with the digital switchover well under way, little old portable TV sets in bedrooms and kitchens up and down the country are being replaced by LCD TV DVD combi sets.

As the old analogue TVs come to the end of their useful lives, a smart new LCD TV DVD combi – basically a flat screen TV with a built-in DVD player – is a natural replacement where space is short. In this hub you can find answers to some of the more basic questions about these economical, space-saving combi televisions.

Q. Is an LCD TV DVD combi easy to use compared to a straight LCD TV?

A. Yes, usually you just push the DVD disk into the slot behind the TV screen, and it will play automatically. The other functions of the LCD TV are basically similar to any ordinary TV, so it's all pretty easy.

Q. Will I be able to record programmes onto the DVD player that's built into my LCD TV DVD combi set?

A. No. Generally, the DVD unit is a player only, to save on space and cost. It's designed for watching pre-recorded DVD disks rather than making your own.

Q. Why do you say that the TV DVD combi is best for the bedroom or kitchen and not the living room?

A. It's about saving space really – avoiding the need to an extra DVD box, digibox and trailing cables where you need something compact. These combi televisions tend to have screen sizes up to 26 inches, which in itself shows that manufacturers intend them to be used in smaller rooms.

Q. Is it OK to dust inside the DVD player slot like I do with my VHS video recorder?

A. No. Don't. You could electrocute yourself. You will break the DVD player. You will not find happiness.

Q. Are there laws against watching naughty films on my LCD TV DVD combi with the curtains closed?

A. The same laws apply to whatever type of set you are watching something on. Basically, if nobody outside your property can see it, and as long as children can't see it, then it's up to you what you watch. At least in the eyes of the law.

Q. Will my TV DVD combi stop me sleeping if I watch it in bed?

A. Some people find that watching an action-packed DVD late at night stimulates the brain somewhat, and this could make it harder to get to sleep. It's better to watch something calming last thing at night, or to switch off the set for the last half hour.

Q. How practical is it to follow the recipe that a TV chef is demonstrating, "live" in the kitchen?

A. This depends on the programme. If it's the kind of programme where the chef takes time to do it and nothing is edited out, then you could. A better alternative is to buy a specialist DVD that's designed for you to watch while cooking at the same time, as these allow you more time to complete the steps of the recipe.

Q. Will watching TV in bed stunt my martial activities in the bedroom?

A. I have to say that it really depends on what you watch! One thing I would say to the sports fans out there is this – don't fall into the habit of watching football in bed while the other half is trying to sleep or trying to – erm – get your attention shall we say. This could become problematic.

The LCD TV DVD combi is a great little machine to replace that old portable TV in the kitchen or bedroom, and given that it's not the world's most complex electronic device, even if you hate new technology, you will be just fine with one of these.