KOE introduces rugged TFT-LCD modules

The display modules from the JDI subsidiary are designed for EV charging stations, ticketing systems and vending machines.

Japan Display Inc. is known for its TFT-LCD modules, which have greater contrast in brightly lit settings and low power consumption. Its subsidiary KOE has also been working on such products. It announced a new monochrome TFT display module in January and recently a color module. Both are 5.7in, a screen size more suited for a smartphone than a smart watch. The lack of vibrancy offered by TFT technology, though, makes them poor candidates for smartphones. KOE said its modules are better for "electric vehicle charging stations, ticketing systems, vending machines and process instrumentation."

The new color module supports 6-bit RGB, which boasts a palette of 262,000 colors. It has a contrast ratio of 600:1 and brightness of 1,000cd/sqm, allowing for "high-quality display image readability ... under all viewing conditions," according to KOE. The active area measures 115.2x56.4mm. The product operates in -30 to 80 C.

The operating conditions in this kind of display obviously need to be more rugged than what is found in consumer products such as the Pebble. The smart watch relies on displays with memory pixels, which can hold a static image with very little power consumption. This is less important in products that don't need to depend on battery power, and shows that TFT-LCD modules are growing in diversity and usefulness.

China manufacturers are already leveraging their competence in LCD production to this end. TFT-LCD module makers on Global Sources include Hebei Jiya Electronics Co. Ltd and Yes Optoelectronics Co. Ltd.

See a comparison table of selected 3 to 6in TFT-LCD module suppliers on GlobalSources.com