Streamlined dot-matrix LCD modules key R&D trend

	Shenzhen Sunson's CA2401281 model has a 0.45x0.45mm dot pitch and a white LED backlight.

Buoyed by the robust mobile phone, consumer electronics, home appliances and automotive systems markets, China makers of dot-matrix LCD modules are stepping up product development.

Suppliers are rolling out thinner models with enhanced features. They are, in particular, extending the operating temperature and improving the contrast to meet clients’ requirements.

In line with the first R&D target, more makers are exploring COG flip-chip technology to achieve smaller modules and match space requirements in target end products. Besides the slimmer configuration, this approach decreases power consumption and renders the component easier and less expensive to design and manufacture. One downside is the lower degree of stability compared with the COB option. As such, the latter will continue to be used even while a growing number of enterprises, especially those emphasizing graphic LCD modules, shift to COG.

Shenzhen Sunson Elec-tech Co. Ltd’s CA12864V model, for instance, is a 128x64-dot, COG-bonded LCD module in STN and FSTN versions. It utilizes green, white, blue or yellow LED backlight and has a six or 12 o’clock viewing direction.

Xiamen Zettler Electronics Co. Ltd’s ACM1602 model is an STN type measuring 122x44x13mm. Designed to work within -20 to 70 C, it has four 8-bit MPUs, 99x24 dots and white backlight. The module can display two lines of 16 characters each.

Some makers, including Fordata Electronic Co. Ltd, adopt temperature compensation and protective circuitry to elevate product performance. The supplier’sFECG240128A-NSWBBW-51TN model is one example of this trend. It is a 240x128 graphic LCD module based on negative STN technology.

Intelligent LCD modules that have microprocessors to control functions are projected to lead the line in the months ahead. In terms of growing the application base further, more companies are eyeing the automotive sector. Modules are being developed for vehicle onboard radio displays, meters, GPS and DVD players.

To prepare for a rise in demand while managing costs better, manufacturers are expanding capacity and boosting efficiency. Shenzhen Sunson, for example, added two production lines in its Hubei province facility this year and employed additional 40 staff. Others are investing in semiautomatic assembly lines and testing equipment, including binding, ultrasoniccleaning and welding machines. Some enterprises produce the components in-house to offset or counter the rising cost.

At present, mainland China is one of the major sourcing hubs for LCD modules in the world. There are about 300 suppliers in the country distributed in the Pearl River and Yangtze River Delta regions and Xiamen in Fujian province. Some can be found in northern China. More than half are locally owned, and about 30 percent are foreign-invested.

Major international LCD manufacturers such as Sharp, Samsung and LG Philips LCD have factories in the country to take advantage of lower costs.

Character & graphic LCD modules
Product gallery

Dot-matrix LCD modules from China are categorized into two kinds, character and graphic. These are STN or FSTN monochrome varieties that adopt electric field effect for display. The products employ COB, COG or TAB bonding, with the first widely used in character LCD modules for its cost advantages.

The other types of LCD modules available are TFT, OLED and customized models. More than half of China suppliers are developing such variants, some even integrating touch panels and control boards.

The key components for production include the PCB, ITO glass, polarizer and IC. These are acquired locally or from providers abroad. The first three are mostly from Shenzhen Tianma Microelectronics. The last is sourced from overseas partners such as Toshiba, Raio and Sitronix. LCD panels are from Taiwan’s Chimei Innolux.

Despite the anticipated 5 to 20 percent increase in raw material outlay, makers have no plans of implementing markups due to stiff competition. Some are even considering reducing quotes for large-volume orders.

Related report:
TFT-LCD module: R&D plays up touchscreen, LED backlight

Fordata Electronic Co. Ltd

Model: FECG240128A-NSWBBW-51TN
Description: Negative STN; white LED backlight; 240x128 dots; built-in DC-DC circuit; circuit protection; -20 to 70 C operating, -30 to 80 C storage temperatures

Xiamen Precise Display Co. Ltd

Model: COG12864
Description: Yellow-green, gray STN, b/w FSTN; LED backlight; 128x64 dots; COG

Xiamen Zettler Electronics Co. Ltd

Model: ACM1602
Description: Blue STN; white LED backlight; 99x24-dot display area; 5x7 dot-matrix character, cursor; 16 characters, two lines; 1.05x1.2 dot pitch, 1x1.15mm size; 6, 12 o’clock viewing angles; 4/8-bit MPU; -20 to 70 C operating temperature; 122x44x13mm