liquid crystal display

Short for liquid crystal display, a type of display used in digital watches and many portable computers. LCD displays utilize two sheets of polarizing material with a liquid crystal solution between them. An electric current passed through the liquid causes the crystals to align so that light cannot pass through them. Each crystal, therefore, is like a shutter, either allowing light to pass through or blocking the light.

Monochrome LCD images usually appear as blue or dark gray images on top of a grayish-white background. Color LCD displays use two basic techniques for producing color: Passive matrix is the less expensive of the two technologies. The other technology, called thin film transistor (TFT) or active-matrix, produces color images that are as sharp as traditional CRT displays, but the technology is expensive. Recent passive-matrix displays using new CSTN and DSTN technologies produce sharp colors rivaling active-matrix displays.

Most LCD screens used in notebook computers are backlit, or transmissive, to make them easier to read.

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Related Links

Report on Japanese display technology R&D
This June 92 report is one in a series of reports prepared through the Japanese Technology Evaluation Center (JTEC), sponsored by the National Science Foundation (NSF) . The report describes research and development efforts in Japan in the area of display technologies. Includes information on electroluminescent, plasma, and liquid crystal displays.

Active Matrix LCD Technology Paper
Describes the manufacturing and infrastructure of active matrix and liquid crystal displays.

Comparison of LCD to typical CRT monitors
A comparison between flat LCD and traditional CRT monitors, including display sizes, physical size, display charactersitics, and energy features.

Flat Panel Display Technology Overview
Outlines the various flat panel display technologies, including DSTN, TFT, Plasma, FEDs, etc. Includes graphics, diagrams and an integrated glossary. This page is from "The PC Technology Guide."

LCD Information and Technical Forum
Contains links to LCD information sources, FAQs, projects, applications, data sheets, products, tradeshows, publications, manufacturers, and related Web sites.

Polymer and Liquid Crystals project
Contains a virtual library and lab that provides introductory information about polymers, liquid crystals, and polymer liquid crystals.

Trends in AM LCD Technology
Describes LCD versus CRT and other aspects of AM LCD displays.