1. An LED TV is not a new kind of TV . I appreciate a good marketing ploy as much as the next guy, but an LED TV is just an LCD TV that's backlit with light-emitting diodes (LEDs) instead of standard cold-cathode fluorescent lights (or CCFLs).

2.There are two LED backlight configuration Initially, LED-based displays like the Samsung LN-T4681F were backlit by what's referred to as a "full array" of LEDs behind the LCD, across the back of the panel--just like a standard CCFL backlight.

3. Each configuration may also offer "local dimming." All current LED-based LCDs with rear-placed, full-array LED backlighting--except the Sharp LC-LE700UN series from 2009--feature a technology called "local dimming.

4. Edge-lit TVs are really thin, but uniformity suffers. As I said, the key benefit to an edge-lit LED-backlighting scheme is that manufacturers can make thinner TVs.

5. LED backlighting of either variety doesn't improve LCD's poor off-angle viewing. Unlike with plasma, one of the big downsides to LCD TVs is that the picture degrades if you're sitting off to the side or the TV is placed too high or low, based on your eye level.

6. LED backlighting is even more efficient than standard fluorescent backlighting. It's definitely true that LED backlighting can cut down on power use, and some LED-backlit LCDs are, inch for inch, the most efficient flat panels available.

7. LED backlighting will get better--but how much better is debatable. Though it's true that manufacturers' backlighting schemes will continue to improve with time, we've heard from industry insiders that the real advancements will be in edge-lit technology

8. LED equals higher price tag. While we're on the topic of expensive...as you're probably aware, LED-powered LCD TVs cost more than non-LED models.