It used to be said that the new plasma televisions don't last as long as normal, and more affordable, TVs. Well this myth can be laid to rest since some manufacturers guarantee their sets for up to 60,000 hours of viewing time! That is about twenty seven years in most homes.
Then there was the story that if you kept the same image on the screen too long - for an example, a video game image - then the image would be 'burned' permanently onto the screen.
You would see a ghost like image after that. To some extent this is true, however, after several years of improvement it was found that the image would disappear after some time when a moving image was projected onto the screen.
Considering the price that these screens go for, it would be a good idea to make sure it has everything you need. Check how many inputs it has to enable you to connect your DVD, video, computer etc.
There is nothing worse than scrabbling around pulling cables in and out of the screen - and it doesn't do the screen much good either!
Also, consider the sound quality that you require. Many sets come with standard speakers or clip-on extras. Some people prefer to connect the sound through their own high quality music systems.
It seems a little outrageous that these plasma screens can cost as much as a second-hand car. However, if you take care to choose the right one, it can bring many hours of great entertainment at a standard unsurpassed to date.