NEC LCD Technologies will begin shipping samples of its new 21.3-inch (54-centimeters-diagonal) monochrome ultra extended graphics array (UXGA), TFT LCD module, part number NL160120AM27-13A, at the end of October.

The new LCD module is suitable for medical use including diagnosis of radiogram interpretation of X-ray images. It has 1600(H) x 1200(V) pixels, and a pixel pitch of 0.27(H) mm x 0.27(V) mm. Display area is 432.0mm x 324.0 mm.

This new LCD, an upgraded model of NL160120AM27-06A launched in April 2005, boasts the highest luminance level in the UXGA and above monochrome class at 1700cd/m2 due to a combination of NEC LCD Technologies’ own unique super-advanced, super-fine TFT (SA-SFT) technology and a high-intensity, direct back-light system. This brightness level is exceeded in the case of image diagnosis with X-ray film on a light box. In addition, if the level of luminance is suppressed, stable luminance levels can be preserved over a long period of time.

A review in panel design has achieved a reduction in the level of black brightness by at least 30% as compared with the conventional model, NL160120AM27-06A, although both are equipped with a high-intensity, direct back-light system. As a result, a high contrast ratio of 850:1, the highest ratio in the UXGA and above monochrome class, is realized. The optimization of the optical design inhibits a “washed-out black” phenomenon that occurs when the viewing angle is enlarged - currently a common issue with in-plane switching (IPS) type LCD modules - leading to enhanced viewing angle performance of the contrast ratio.

“We are confident that our new 21.3-inch monochrome LCD will fulfill the current needs of the medical market. It not only tops its class in terms of high luminance and color contrast, but answers demands for UXGA LCDs for image diagnosis that can maintain high brightness uniformity over long periods of time,” said Hidetoshi Usui, department manager in charge of product planning and marketing, NEC LCD Technologies, Ltd. “At NEC LCD Technologies we aim to leverage our years of technological know-how to synergize excellent picture quality with adaptive design technologies, bringing the best product to market every time.”

This new product will be displayed at FPD International 2006, which is being held in Pacifico Yokohama, Japan, from October 18 - 20.