A review of liquid crystal display technologies, electronic interconnection and failure analysis

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to discuss the chemistry of organic compounds with a liquid crystal phase and their application in flat panel electronic displays. Design/methodology/approach The paper is a review of liquid crystal display (LCD) technology. It provides an introduction to liquid crystals and LCDs, with an emphasis on their historical development, various LCD technologies employed, their electronic interconnection to driver circuitry and failure analysis. Findings The current world market for LCDs is being driven by flat panel television sales. As well as their use in television sets, they are to be found in aircraft cockpit instrumentation, computer monitors, mobile phones and digital cameras, all of which would not exist in their present form without liquid crystals. Originality/value The paper provides an introduction to LCDs for electronic engineers working in this area, who may be unfamiliar with the chemistry of liquid crystals, LCD technology, electronic interconnection and failure analysis.