There are several different options available when choosing an electronic display, some of which include light-emitting diode (LED) and liquid-crystal display (LCD). While each type has its own strengths and weaknesses, LCDs are often the preferred choice among consumers and business owners alike. So whether it’s for personal or commercial use, you really can’t go wrong with an LCD. Before making a final decision, though, you should familiarize yourself with some of its unique properties that we’re going to discuss today.
LCD Technology: the Basics
LCDs typically consist of several layers, including a layer of liquid crystal molecules which is placed between two transparent electrodes, as well as two polarizing filters. Images are produced by illuminating the liquid crystal molecules with a back light. In many LCD devices, LED back lights are used for this purpose. The LEDs illuminate the liquid crystals, producing the display’s image.
Of course, LED isn’t the only back light available for LCD displays. Others may include cold cathode fluorescent lamps (CCFL), WLED, EL-WLED, and RGB-LED.
Energy Efficiency
One of the greatest benefits associated with LCD displays is their efficient use of energy. According to Wikipedia, an LCD display uses roughly 10-25% of the power of a CRT display. Granted, the cost-savings associated with its energy-efficient qualities may not be noticeable at first. Over time, however, it can quickly add up, making LCDs well worth the investment.
No Refresh ‘Flickr’ Rate
Other displays have a tendency to produce flickr during the refresh rate. Because the pixels in an LCD hold their state between refreshes, however, this phenomenon typically doesn’t occur in them.
Minimal Heat Production
A lesser-known benefit of LCD display technology is its minimal production of heat. All electronic devices produce some heat, and LCDs are no exception. When compared to other displays, however, LCDs produce significantly less heat, which is one of the reasons why it’s energy efficient.
Accommodates Large Size
LCDs can be designed in a wide variety of sizes, with some devices pushing 60 inches in diameter. Their lightweight design and inexpensive construction makes them ideal for this purpose. This is why you typically see large TVs and computer monitors using LCD technology instead of other display technology.
These are just a few of the positive characteristics associated with LCDs.
