For high-resolution color displays such as modern LCD computer monitors and televisions, an active matrix structure is used. Active-matrix displays are much brighter and sharper than passive-matrix displays of the same size, and generally have quicker response times.

Flat-panel displays are becoming increasingly commonplace in today's commercial electronic devices, finding widespread use in many new generation of products, such as cellular phones, PDAs, camcorders, and notebook PCs. With this generation of handheld electronics placing stringent demands on their displays, AMLCDs are the leading flat-panel display technology and are ubiquitous in laptop computers.

Active matrix displays deliver high performance, enable pattern customization and interference-free In-Cell Diffusing Reflector (IDR) transflective display technology for superior outdoor performance. They also provide high contrast and wide-angle viewing, based on the Multidomain Vertically Aligned (MVA) LCD mode. In addition, advanced driving designs enable low-power standby performance.

Developing dedicated AMLCD solutions for mobile applications, TPO has a complete portfolio of AMLCD technology that includes both Amorphous Silicon (a-Si) TFT and Low Temperature Poly-Silicon (LTPS) TFT.

LTPS and a-Si TFT technology

LTPS is a leading edge manufacturing process for making TFT LCDs. Delivering excellent image quality and response time, LTPS features the technology of laser annealing, which achieves crystallization of silicon film with temperature under 400°C and provides faster electron response, less contacts and components, and low power consumption.

Increased electron mobility enables integration of circuitry on the substrate as well as reducing the TFT dimension. In addition, LTPS allows integration of driver circuits onto the substrate itself. Since both the number of external connections and the bezel size of the substrate can be minimized, the overall system durability is enhanced at lower cost. And since the TFT of the LTPS LCD is smaller than that of a-Si, the aperture ratio and screen brightness can be increased significantly.

a-Si is the current technology of choice for most leading display companies because it has adequate performance as an active matrix for current TV and all current computer applications. It is produced using a low-temperature process and requires moderate cost.

TPO's products offer a high level of LTPS and a-Si system-on-panel integration, enabling cost-effective and small form factor high-resolution panels. Advanced TFT devices enable high performance analog circuits and advanced AMOLED displays.