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The Functions and Uses of TFT Display Modules in Today's Electronics

clock May 3, 2012 08:40 by author Admin

 

There is an increasing demand for TFT display modules, also known as Thin Film Transistors. The majority of TFT modules use industry standard LCD drivers and controllers for picture quality and clarity. Like other types of display modules, there are a variety of features included with a TFT display module to set each one apart from the other. For example, some modules are transflective and designed to be used in applications that receive direct sunlight. Others have a high brightness backlight that allows them to be viewed in various lighting conditions. Furthermore, a TFT display module can be quite small in size, with some measuring out at a mere 1.44 inches. Generally speaking, most manufactures will offer TFT modules that are between 1.77 inches and 10.2 inches. 

With the small nature of a TFT display module, they carry the utmost flexibility for use in applications such as cell phones, laptops, handheld video games, cameras and flat screen televisions. The modules are exceptionally thin and lightweight, so they won’t weigh down products like smartphones and point-and-shoot cameras where ergonomics matter most. A TFT display module also delivers exceptional, consistent performance thanks to its LCD display, which makes for clear, bright images and text as well as smooth movement. 

One of the drawbacks to TFT technology is that it’s expensive. Fortunately with more demand for TFT modules, there is more competition among manufacturers, which has helped lower the cost of this technology. Nevertheless, quality is most important, and the developers of products that use these modules have no choice but to include the best TFT display modules in their products. In fact, it’s a difficult job for engineers to choose the highest quality TFT display module that won’t compromise the efficiency and design of their products. Size is one of the most critical factors to consider since today’s technologically advanced products are designed to be thin and lightweight. 

Since product developers are always looking for the next best thing, most manufacturers of TFT modules offer customization on standard products or will build a custom model. It’s also important to choose a manufacturer that offers a full portfolio of TFT displays and kits for the largest selection and most experience with this technology. It’s not uncommon for small TFT modules to be purchased in large quantities either, which is why many manufacturers have minimum purchase requirements. Whatever their purpose, TFT modules are proving to be an indispensable component in today's electronics. 

 



TFT LCD Displays Explained

clock April 30, 2012 08:24 by author Admin

A TFT LCD display can work in one of two ways. It can either be a television or used for a computer monitor. The abbreviation TFT LCD display actually stands for a thin film transistor liquid crystal display. Many manufacturers actually shorten the abbreviation right down to LCD and leave TFT right off the beginning. It is a type of LCD monitor and is the most popular type of LCD on the market. 

The internal construction of a TFT LCD display consists of glass that has a semiconducting material along the top for functionality. Every pixel inside the TFT LCD display utilizes an individual transistor on top of the liquid crystal material. 

Liquid crystal gets its name because it is similar to liquid since it can change quickly to display different images and the crystal comes from its ability to stay in the newly arranged position. The transistor then applies a low amount of voltage to the pixel to determine each pixel’s intensity and color. These pixels all blend together to create the images for pictures and video. 

The TFT LCD display may also be known as an active-matrix LCD in some settings. While TFT isn’t the only active-matrix LCD technology, it is very popular and why you may notice that people use the term TFT instead of active-matrix when describing a monitor. The TFT is not the only component that creates the active-matrix LCD. The term active-matrix actually stems from the ability of the monitor to control each pixel individually and switch them over quickly as needed. 

Passive-matrix LCDs vary from active-matrix LCDs. The TFT LCD display is defined by a high contrast, fast response time and a high refresh rate. On the other hand, a passive-matrix LCD is found in much smaller displays such as a digital wristwatch or calculator screen. These do not require the full colors that active-matrix LCDs found in computer screens, televisions and cell phones do. 

Two types of thin film transistor technologies are commonly found and used with the TFT LCD displays. The first and most common is the twisted nematic, which is also known as a TN display. Its primary selling point is a very fast response time. They may appear low quality at awkward angles or when reproducing certain colors. The other type is IPS or in-plane switching. It has better colors and viewing angles, but has slower refresh rates as a tradeoff.



Common Uses For TFT Displays

clock April 20, 2012 10:28 by author Admin

A thin film transistor, also called a TFT display, is used in LCD screens to create the crisp, responsive images expected by today's technology users. Each pixel in the display has an individual transistor that changes the pixel. Put together, these many miniscule transistors create the image on the screen. While many people think of LCD screens for use as computer monitors or as television screens, a small TFT display can be used in many other places. 

Digital Cameras
One use for a TFT display less than 10 inches would be for the viewing screen on the back of a digital camera. These displays must be able to respond to the movement of the camera to accurately display what is being seen through the camera's digital lens. The rapid drawing rate of TFT displays ensures that the image on the camera's screen is in real-time and is an accurate representation of the image captured on the camera. 

Portable DVD Players 
A small TFT display may also be used in portable DVD players or on theater systems for inside a car. Consumers demand that even the small screens of these portable movie players be nearly as sharp and clear as their large television screen at home. Usually these screens are less than 10 inches to improve portability. Some of these portable screens may be adapted to under cabinet television screens for use in the kitchen or other room where counter space is at a premium. 

Cell Phones 
Non-touch cell phones may have a TFT display to show the user the phone number being dialed, text messages, pictures, or websites. Since many cell phones also act as cameras, the TFT display used on the cell phone must have the same response rate as the screen on the back of a digital camera. Even screen savers or wallpaper on a cell phone require the sharp, crystal-clear imaging provided by TFT technology. 

The uses for TFT displays on a small scale are many. As television sets at home get larger, the demand for smaller, sharper, and faster displays for use away from home will continue to grow, ensuring that TFT displays will continue to be needed.



Why an LCD Character Display is the Best Choice for Your Project

clock March 31, 2012 09:35 by author Admin

There are hundreds of LCDs, each with its own properties, which act as communication interfaces. LCD character displays are those that are used to display text and small icons. If you look closely at the display, you’ll find that the text is made up of miniature rectangles, which in turn are made up of pixels. Since LCD character displays are specifically designed for basic text and small designs, they are less complex, less expensive and easier to use. Graphic displays on the other hand, are best for projecting images and therefore more complicated, costly and difficult to install because of all the pins.

Just because LCD character displays are basic doesn’t mean they’re sold in one form. These interfaces come in various sizes and colors, with options to have backlit screens and text in various languages. For example, you can purchase a character display that has white font on a blue background, black font on a green background or black font on a gray background. There are also different sizes, with some common options being 20x4 and 16x4. Another positive aspect is that many character displays are built to be interchangeable, which means you can switch to a smaller or larger size to meet your project’s needs. 

Of course, you can’t forget all the benefits to using LCD character displays such as them being lightweight, inexpensive and simple to manufacture. You will want to determine how the LCD display handles long messages and multiple lines of text, since some displays will cut off letters after a certain point. If you try to squeeze in too many lines, they may end up wrapping around one another, leaving the message to make no sense. With these few limitations, it’s safe to say that LCD modules are the smart, efficient and practical method for relaying text across applications. 



What is TFT LCD Display Technology?

clock March 26, 2012 11:30 by author Admin

A TFT LCD display, which is otherwise known as thin film transistor liquid crystal display, is a type of liquid crystal display that utilizes the technology of a thin film transistor for purposes of improving image quality. The TFT LCD display is currently one of the most commonly used types in electronic devices, most notably smartphones, televisions, computers and tablet computers.

In devices such as smartphones and tablet computers, the TFT LCD display is specifically designed in such a manner that it is easy to maneuver the touch screen, while there is no compromise in the quality of the images found on the screen. LCD technology is similar visually to LEDs but uses liquid crystals in its makeup. It is worth noting that liquid crystals are actually poisonous and therefore should never be ingested or brought into contact with skin.

A TFT LCD display is generally a flat panel type of screen that is more commonly referred to as simply "LCD." The TFT portion of the TFT LCD monitor uses a semiconductor material that is applied over a glass plating. Within the TFT LCD display, there are pixels, and each one of these has its own transistor as well as the liquid crystals. These pixels blend together to form a crystal clear, sharp image on the display.

Active matrix TFT LCD displays have a high rate of refreshing, high contrast and are highly responsive. This is in vast contrast to passive matrix LCDs, which are typically found in calculators and digital watches.



The Pros and Cons of TFT Displays

clock March 22, 2012 07:06 by author Admin

 

Traditional CRT monitors have been quickly replaced by the thinner, brighter, more crisp monitors we see more and more commonly today. TFT LCD monitors, which is short for Thin Film Transistor Liquid Crystal Display - say that ten times fast - are known for their sleek, light builds. While TFT displays are superior to their predecessors in many ways, there are still a few advantages and drawbacks that a potential buyer should be aware of before pulling out his or her hard earned cash.

Pros of a TFT Display

• Sharpness of picture. TFT displays are known for crisp and vibrant colors. This is because instead of having images projected as with CRT monitors - which can cause blurring - a TFT display has thousands of individual light sources.

• Environmentally conscious power use. TFT displays can use up to half of the power of a traditional monitor. This is a huge energy and money saver, particularly for large offices that require the use of a lot of monitors.

• Weight, size, and overall ease of handling. The significantly reduced size and weight of a TFT monitor means that it can be carried and situated onto a desk far, far easier than older, bulkier CRT monitors.

Cons of a TFT Display

• Viewing angles. While recent developments have made this issue far less significant than it was even just a few years ago, viewing a TFT monitor from an awkward angle will still result in a distorted or less-than-perfect image.

• Static resolution. This means that the resolution of a TFT monitor typically cannot be changed. Fortunately most newer monitors of this type offer high definition displays.

• Accuracy of colors displayed. LCD monitors have difficulty being properly "tuned" for color, particularly strong blacks and bright whites. For example, it may take some tweaking on behalf of the user before a TFT monitor will accurately display the spectrum of colors on an image as they will be printed out.

 



Better Technology for Improved TFT Displays

clock March 19, 2012 07:27 by author Admin

TFT display is the technology used on most modern flat-panel monitors and screens. Mobile phones, computer monitors, and flat screen televisions with LCD screens likely use TFT display technology. TFT stands for thin film transistor, and it allows for the creation of ultra-thin screens with displays that update faster than before. 

Thirty years ago, the only screens available for use with computers or televisions used cathode ray tubes (CRT). This is the original technology used in televisions. While it worked for decades, the large, bulky size of the screens kept monitors and televisions comparatively small. These monitors also did not use digital technology and became hot with extended use. 

TFT display screens use a single transistor to operate each pixel in the display. Larger screens with higher resolution will have more pixels and more transistors in a TFT display. Since each pixel is operated individually, minute changes in the screen can quickly take place. This is most noticeable with TFT screens used on mobile phones or computers. Changes on the screen like movements of the pointer or typing letters appear instantly on the screen, without lag time or vague disappearances of the cursor. 

Liquid crystal display (LCD) screens using TFT technology are some of the best available today. TFT displays allow for sharper images, thinner screens, larger displays, and cooler operation. This technology is found in most of today's LCD screens. Pick those with the fastest update times for the best, clearest display. 

Old CRT televisions and monitors are only good now for boat anchors or paper weights. Digital technology and portability demand the use of thinner, lighter screens that use TFT technology.



All Shore Industries Releases 2.83” HFFS TFT (Thin-Film Transistor) Display

clock March 14, 2012 09:33 by author Admin
TFT Display Module

ASI Displays has introduced their first color TFT display using advanced HFFS technology.  The ASI-T-283DA2BN/D TFT display provides a bright 2.83” display with popular 240x320 (QVGA) pixel resolution, a contrast ratio of 500:1, and all angle viewing of 80/80/80/80.  

Ideal for portable equipment, HFFS (High aperture ratio Field Fringe Switching) offers high pixel density, extreme all-around viewing angles, high light transmittance (30-40% higher aperture ratio), high brightness, and  lower power consumption, compared to conventional TFT displays.   Backlight current can be kept lower while still providing exceptional outdoor readability. 

Applications include navigators, cell phones, outdoor kiosks, auto, aviation and marine equipment and any product requiring excellent readability under all lighting conditions.
Additional HFFS and In-Plane Switching (IPS) models to be introduced shortly.  Contact ASI Displays if you have an immediate requirement.  The ASI-T-283DA2BN/D is available in production quantities now.

ASI Displays has a variety of TFT displays ranging in size from 1.44" to 10.1" to suit your need. Resistive and capacitive touch screens are available on many units. Select modules available with controller on board as well. Details for these as well as other TFT and Monochrome displays may be seen on their web site, ASI Displays.

With over 30 years of experience in the electronics manufacturing industry, ASI Displays is able to offer a blend of creativity and reliability, now showcased in their newest product, the 2.83” HFFS TFT Display.



LCD Character Displays and Their Function as Communication Interfaces

clock February 21, 2012 04:17 by author Admin

 

It’s not often that we stop and think about how things work, but when it comes to technology, there’s always a how and a why. So is the case with character displays, otherwise known as communication interfaces that display numbers and letters clearly and visibly. 

Because of their ability to withstand a variety of environments, these displays are popularly used in settings where the temperature fluctuates as well as low operating currents and high contrast settings. The modules include the necessary hardware and software to be connected easily with their corresponding host system and can be operated from a single power supply.

Character displays offer a range of benefits over other display methods, and because of their efficiency and dependability, are becoming the industry standard for products, equipment and applications that require a graphic display. The greatest advantages to these displays are that they offer a long lifespan, excellent reliability and are of high quality. 

Built from superior parts, the displays are also capable of displaying hundreds of fonts that include numbers, letters and symbols from various languages. Furthermore, the fonts are available in different sizes and in horizontal and vertical arrangements. 

Not only is the type and size of font important, but so is the way that the graphics are displayed on the interface. Many character displays offer dimming functions to control the luminance of the graphics, while others offer the direct benefit of displaying specific characters determined by the user. Character displays have the utmost competence and are extremely versatile, which is why they’re used in so many applications.

Character displays are lightweight, cost-effective and compact, giving them an edge when being used in the manufacturing of electronics, outdoor signage and LCD modules. And thanks to the flexibility of their purpose and function, character displays can be custom-made to fit any application. 

 



Understanding the Function and Purpose of LCD Modules

clock February 10, 2012 04:14 by author Admin

The technological brilliance of LCDs has enabled numbers, letters and graphics to be uniquely displayed, capturing audiences and changing the way that information is relayed. LCD stands for liquid crystal display and consists of tiny crystals that are employed in such a way that data is presented clearly and vibrantly. LCDs are used across applications, including gaming devices, computer monitors, outdoor signage and medical equipment. 

LCD modules have many advantages over traditional display modules, with the two highlights being size and weight. Years ago, it took bulky picture tubes to display images, and these tubes had to be housed between thick sheets of glass. With an LCD module, two thin glass plates are required, and the liquid crystal is placed in between. This maintains the small, lightweight designs of LCDs and their ability to be placed in various products and equipment. 

LCD modules also have lower price points, making them especially attractive in components that can carry a lower price point as well. Thanks to the quick time-to-market, flexibility and lower shipping and manufacturing costs, LCDs are the preferred choice. 

Although heightened technology has made systems on the market more sensitive to certain stimuli, LCD modules are extremely reliable. Their functions are tested rigorously, and the modules offer an unparalleled sense of flexibility thanks to the powerful commands and variety of interfaces. Only top-of-the-line materials are used in the construction of an LCD module, which leads to better performance and a longer lifespan. 

While LCDs are used in many different applications, an LCD module focuses on a particular niche. These applications are those that use monochrome and multi-colored graphic displays like video games and GPS systems. These modules also enable various diagonal sizes and resolutions and can be constructed with a backlit display for easier reading. With the flexibility of LCDs, those looking for a specific module can also have a custom system designed that fits their objective.