New Epson HTPS Panels for 3LCD Projectors to Include Inorganic Alignment Layer

May 24, 2005

Seiko Epson Corporation has developed new high temperature poly-silicon (HTPS) panel technology incorporating an inorganic alignment layer for use in 3LCD projectors. In addition to maintaining the bright images achieved in existing D series panels, this technology dramatically enhances aperture ratios, definition, and image quality to enable the development of projectors offering an even more realistic HDTV experience. Reflecting the crystal clear images made possible by this new inorganic alignment layer HTPS technology, Epson has called it "Crystal Clear Fine (C² Fine)."

Image: (top) Image using new C² Fine technology; (bottom) Image using conventional technology

Given growing demand for corporate presentations, increasing use of IT in the educational sector, rising sales of data projectors, and a home projection market with rapidly emerging needs for home theater and large-screen TV applications, the new C² Fine technology has been developed to make 3LCD projector images even brighter, more natural, and easier on the eye, as well as meeting market demands for products with higher aperture ratios, definition, and picture quality.

Use of this technology in projectors and large-screen projection TVs will boost performance in the following areas:

-- Key points of improved picture quality with inorganic alignment technology

1. Vastly improved contrast (several times existing levels)
2. Superb alignment
3. Enhanced reproduction of dark colors (capable of reproducing jet black)

-- Production schedule

This technology will be used in products starting from 2006.

Building on its track record in business-use data projectors, Epson has developed a full lineup of products featuring a new dimension in picture quality for the home theater market. The new HTPS technology will be used in various product types, and continuing development efforts will lead to even higher performance levels in the future.

To allow viewers to actually experience these more realistic images for themselves, a large-screen projection TV featuring the new technology will be on display at the Infocomm 2005 exposition to be held in Las Vegas, United States, from June 8 to 10.