AOC 2230Fm LCD Monitor

Here we have a brand called AOC, something we have not reviewed in the recent past, but has gained quite a bit of popularity in our market since we last checked it out. Today in the spotlight is their 22 inch offering, called the AOC 2230Fm, also known as the Rivio; replete with lots of multimedia features and all that bebop. So let’s check it out.

Design and features
The aesthetic design of this model is actually quite nice, partly due to the well finished silver accenting on the bottom panel, and also due to a chequered faux finish around the side panels. The bezel is a good black gloss. The screen itself is glossy finish, thus slightly reflective when off, and might also be reflective in dark scenes. The On button is around push buttons illuminated by a tiny blue LED, adding to the appeal.

The frame slips onto a sturdy round stand, quite easily at that, thus facilitating easy physical set up. But unfortunately the joint is not so sturdy, the monitor wobbles at the slightest flick. Connection-wise this monitor has plenty, because one of the main USPs is the fact that this model sports direct playback of SD movies, JPEGs and MP3s from a USB drive. It has HDMI, DVI-D, VGA, Audio In, Headphone out and 4 USB ins, with one USB A – B wire included. Speakers give out 2 watts RMS. It also has a Memory card slot. I have to give the AOC some points here for including all the multimedia features, it’s rare in monitors.

As for rated specs, they seem high too, with 2 ms response time, 300 Cd/m2 brightness, 20000:1 dynamic contrast and viewing angle of 170/160 degrees. The resolution is not full HD though, it's 1680 by 1050, so the 16:10 curse for moviebuffs and videophiles is there. For gamers of course it’s not an issue. The panel is assumed to be TN.