Does the world need 3D TV?

LAS VEGAS--Stand back from the TVs folks, because 3D is comin' atcha. Hollywood has scored big over the past year with 3D movies, and now both Hollywood and the consumer electronics industry want to put 3D in your living room. The bandwagon has close to universal industry ridership, almost every major manufacturer is launching 3D sets at CES this week, the Blu-ray format will support 3D and many gaming consoles should soon follow suit. As both content and hardware starts rolling off the assembly line, however, it's worth pondering exactly what 3D in the living room means for consumers. Here are answers to some of the biggest questions about 3D television.

1) Am I going to need a new set?

Almost definitely. Some current plasma and DLP projection sets can support 3D, but most other HDTVs don't. Plus, it is unclear if DLP and plasma sets will work with the new Blu-ray players or HDMI connections. So be prepared for plenty of confusion on this issue.

2) Hey, wait, didn't I just buy a new HDTV?

Yes, you probably did. According to Leichtman Research Group, nearly half of American households now have HDTV sets, which means that a lot of people recently purchased an expensive new TV. When those people learn that their new set is already outmoded, grumbling is likely to ensue.

3) Do I need a new Blu-ray player, too?

Maybe. There are new 3D Blu-ray players hitting the shelves this year, but the PlayStation 3 is expected to be forward compatible. It's unclear why the PS3 should be upgradable for 3D Blu-ray, while other connected players may not be. Expect even more confusion on this issue.

4) Will there be any other content?

Yes. Major companies such as ESPN and the Discovery Channel have announced plans to create 3D channels, but no announcements have yet been made by cable or satellite providers as to who might carry these channels, which will probably require greater bandwidth than existing HD channels.

5) Will I need to wear glasses?

Oh, yes. You will definitely need glasses,big, battery-powered, ridiculous-looking glasses will be necessary for 3D. Consumers have eagerly donned these accessories for 3D theatrical releases, yet it may be a different proposition when the boys get together to watch the Superbowl.