A monitor is no good if it can't connect and display what you'd like, so supported connections are a big deal. The current king of connections is HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface). An HDMI connection is digital and can pass along much more video and audio data than any other consumer-based connection. HDMI is not uncommon on HD camcorders and HDTV monitors. We're even seeing this connection supported by some video card manufacturers, such as the Blackmagic Design Intensity Pro ($349). This connection can also be easily adapted to DVI, a more common computer monitor input. If you're using an HD camcorder or HD source footage, you can also connect via component connectors. Most, if not all, HD camcorders have component output. Either HDMI or component will enable you to send an HD signal to your monitor. On the high end of professional HD connections is HD SDI (High Definition Serial Digital Interface). It's most common on high-end HD camcorders and strictly found on professional production monitors. The HD SDI connection sends video, audio and additional data (e.g., timecode), making it a preferred professional connection.

If you are working in standard definition, S-Video and composite connections are typical among consumer and professional devices. On the high end of professional equipment, you'll find SDI (Serial Digital Interface) connections, which are much like HD SDI, except they are working only in standard-definition video signals.

Working strictly with your video-editing workstation, a DVI (Digital Video Interface) port is ideal. If you are editing HD content, you may also need to figure out how you'll get the footage to a production monitor for full-frame video. There are several different solutions, but you might need a "go-between" device that will output from your video card to this device and then onto your production monitor. Manufacturers like Matrox Electronic Systems, AJA Video and Blackmagic Design offer a variety of solutions.

No matter what your aim is, a good monitor can make the difference between a good shot and a bad shot. It can make a difference between color correction that is accurate or colors that seem unnatural. As a video producer, you want to make sure you get it right. Having a production monitor on hand will give you that second opinion that helps guide your creative decisions.

Contributing editor Mark Montgomery is an independent video producer and editor.

Click here to download a PDF Manufacturer's list of Videomaker's Monitor Buyer's Guide for Editors.