Technology pls. Types of LCD matrices

The “film” part in the technology name means an additional layer used to increase the viewing angle (approximately from 90° to 150°).

TN + film is the simplest technology. It has been used for quite some time and is used in the majority of monitors sold in the last few years.

TN+ film, at least in theory, is intended to create entry-level panels. Today, TN + film panels are the cheapest.

The TN+ film matrix works as follows: if no voltage is applied to the subpixels, the liquid crystals (and the polarized light they transmit) rotate 90° relative to each other in the horizontal plane in the space between the two plates. And because The polarization direction of the filter on the second plate makes an angle of 90° with the polarization direction of the filter on the first plate, light passes through it. If the yellow, green and cyan sub-pixels are fully illuminated, a white dot will appear on the screen.

When voltage is applied, in our case directed vertically, it destroys the helical structure of the crystals. The molecules will try to align themselves in the direction of the electric field. They will line up perpendicular to the polarization direction of the second filter, and the polarized incident light will not reach the subpixels. As a result, a black dot appears on the screen.

Let's say a few more words about the disadvantages of TN technology:

When voltage is applied, the molecules align parallel to the substrate.

In-Plane Switching technology was developed by Hitachi and NEC and was intended to overcome the disadvantages of TN+ film. Using IPS, it was possible to increase the viewing angle to 178° with the best color reproduction of all types of matrices and an acceptable response time.

If no voltage is applied to the IPS matrix, the liquid crystal molecules do not rotate. The second filter is always turned perpendicular to the first, and no light passes through it. The black color display is perfect. If the transistor fails, the “broken” pixel for an IPS panel will not be white, as for a TN matrix, but black.

When a voltage is applied, the liquid crystal molecules rotate perpendicular to their initial position and transmit light.

The disadvantages of IPS are, firstly, the fact that applying voltage using 2 electrodes leads to high energy consumption and, even worse, requires a significant amount of time. Therefore, the response time of IPS matrices is generally higher than that of TN matrices.

Some use MVA matrices. This technology was developed by Fujitsu and is theoretically the optimal compromise in almost all areas. Horizontal and vertical viewing angles for MVA matrices are 170°, and colors are displayed much more accurately than with TN matrices.

MVA is the successor to VA technology introduced in 1996 by Fujitsu. The liquid crystals of the VA matrix, when the voltage is turned off, are aligned perpendicular to the second filter, i.e. do not allow light to pass through. When voltage is applied, the crystals rotate 90° and a light dot appears on the screen.

The advantages of MVA technology are short response time, deep black color and the absence of both a helical crystal structure and a double magnetic field.

Problems arise when trying to look from the side. When displaying, say, light red, only a fraction of the maximum voltage is applied to the output of the transistor, and the crystals will only partially turn. A user looking straight on will see a light red color. A user looking from the side will see either red or white (depending on which side they are looking from).

MVA technology, which solves this problem, appeared a year after VA.

Each subpixel was divided into several zones, and the polarizing filters were made directional. The crystals were no longer aligned or facing the same direction. The subpixel is divided into several zones, and the user perceives only one of these zones depending on the angle at which he looks at the display.

Analogues of MVA are PVA technologies from Samsung, ASV from Sharp and Super MVA from CMO.

Currently, for the production of consumer monitors, the two most basic, so to speak, root, matrix manufacturing technologies are used - LCD and LED.

• LCD is an abbreviation for the phrase “Liquid Crystal Display”, which translated into understandable Russian means liquid crystal display, or LCD.
• LED stands for “Light Emitting Diode”, which in our language is read as a light-emitting diode, or simply an LED.

All other types are derived from these two pillars of display construction and are modified, modernized and improved versions of their predecessors.

Well, let’s now consider the evolutionary process that displays went through when they came to serve humanity.

Types of monitor matrices, their characteristics, similarities and differences

Let's start with the LCD screen that is most familiar to us. It includes:

• The matrix, which at first was a sandwich of glass plates interspersed with a film of liquid crystals. Later, with the development of technology, thin sheets of plastic began to be used instead of glass.
• Light source.
• Connecting wires.
• Case with metal frame, which gives rigidity to the product

The point on the screen responsible for forming the image is called pixel, and consists of:

• Transparent electrodes in the amount of two pieces.
• Layers of molecules of the active substance between the electrodes (this is the LC).
• Polarizers whose optical axes are perpendicular to each other (depending on the design).

If there were no LC between the filters, then the light from the source passing through the first filter and being polarized in one direction would be completely delayed by the second, due to the fact that its optical axis is perpendicular to the axis of the first filter. Therefore, no matter how much we shine on one side of the matrix, on the other side it remains black.

The surface of the electrodes touching the LC is processed in such a way as to create a certain order of molecules in space. In other words, their orientation, which tends to change depending on the magnitude of the voltage of the electric current applied to the electrodes. Next, technological differences begin depending on the type of matrix.

Tn matrix stands for “Twisted Nematic”, which means “Twisting thread-like”. The initial arrangement of the molecule is in the form of a quarter-reverse helix. That is, light from the first filter is refracted so that, passing along the crystal, it hits the second filter in accordance with its optical axis. Consequently, in a quiet state such a cell is always transparent.

By applying voltage to the electrodes, you can change the angle of rotation of the crystal until it is completely straightened, at which light passes through the crystal without refraction. And since it was already polarized by the first filter, the second one will completely delay it, and the cell will be black. Changing the voltage changes the angle of rotation and, accordingly, the degree of transparency.

Advantages

Flaws– small viewing angles, low contrast, poor color rendering, inertia, power consumption

TN+Film matrix

It differs from simple TN by the presence of a special layer designed to increase the viewing angle in degrees. In practice, a value of 150 degrees horizontally is achieved for the best models. Used in the vast majority of budget-level TVs and monitors.

Advantages– low response time, low cost.

Flaws– viewing angles are very small, low contrast, poor color rendering, inertia.

TFT matrix

Abbreviation for “Think Film Transistor” and translates as “thin film transistor”. The name TN-TFT would be more correct, since it is not a type of matrix, but a manufacturing technology and the difference from pure TN is only in the method of controlling pixels. Here it is implemented using microscopic field-effect transistors, and therefore such screens belong to the class of active LCDs. That is, it is not a type of matrix, but a way of managing it.

IPS or SFT matrix

Yes, and this is also a descendant of that very ancient LCD plate. In essence, it is a more developed and modernized TFT, as it is called Super Fine TFT (very good TFT). The viewing angle is increased for the best products, reaching 178 degrees, and the color gamut is almost identical to natural

.

Advantages– viewing angles, color rendering.

Flaws– the price is too high compared to TN, the response time is rarely below 16 ms.

Types of IPS matrix:

• H-IPS – increases image contrast and reduces response time.
• AS-IPS - the main quality is to increase contrast.
• H-IPS A-TW - H-IPS with “True White” technology, which improves white color and its shades.
• AFFS - increasing the electric field strength for large viewing angles and brightness.

PLS matrix

Modified, in order to reduce costs and optimize response time (up to 5 milliseconds), the IPS version. Developed by the Samsung concern and is an analogue of H-IPS, AN-IPS, which are patented by other electronics developers.

You can find out more about the PLS matrix in our article:

VA, MVA and PVA matrices

This is also a manufacturing technology, and not a separate type of screen.

• VA matrix– abbreviation for “Vertical Alignment”, translated as vertical alignment. Unlike TN matrices, VA does not transmit light when turned off.
• MVA matrix. Modified VA. The goal of the optimization was to increase viewing angles. The response time was reduced thanks to the use of OverDrive technology.
• PVA matrix. Not a separate species. It is an MVA patented by Samsung under its own name.

There is also an even greater number of various improvements and improvements that the average user is unlikely to encounter in practice - the maximum that the manufacturer will indicate on the box is the main type of screen and that’s all.

In parallel with LCD, LED technology developed. Full-fledged, pure LED screens are made from discrete LEDs either in a matrix or cluster manner and are not found in household appliance stores.

The reason for the lack of full-weight LEDs on sale lies in their large dimensions, low resolution, and coarse grain. The scope of such devices is banners, street TV, media facades, and ticker tape devices.

Attention! Don't confuse a marketing name like "LED monitor" with a real LED display. Most often, this name will hide a regular LCD of the TN+Film type, but the backlight will be made using an LED lamp, not a fluorescent one. That’s all that such a monitor will have from LED technology – only the backlight.

OLED displays

OLED displays are a separate segment, representing one of the most promising areas:

Advantages

1. low weight and overall dimensions;
2. low appetite for electricity;
3. unlimited geometric shapes;
4. no need for illumination with a special lamp;
5. viewing angles up to 180 degrees;
6. instant matrix response;
7. contrast exceeds all known alternative technologies;
8. the ability to create flexible screens;
9. temperature range is wider than other screens.

Flaws

• short service life of diodes of a certain color;
• the impossibility of creating durable full-color displays;
• very high price, even compared to IPS.

For reference. Perhaps we are also read by lovers of mobile devices, so we will also touch on the portable technology sector:

AMOLED (Active Matrix Organic Light-Emitting Diode) – combination of LED and TFT

Super AMOLED – Well, here, we think everything is clear!

Based on the data provided, it follows that there are two types of monitor matrices - liquid crystal and LED. Their combinations and variations are also possible.

You should know that the matrices are divided by ISO 13406-2 and GOST R 52324-2005 into four classes, about which we will only say that the first class provides for the complete absence of dead pixels, and the fourth class allows up to 262 defects per million pixels.

How to find out what matrix is ​​in the monitor?

There are 3 ways to verify the matrix type of your screen:

a) If the packaging box and technical documentation have been preserved, then you can probably see a table there with the characteristics of the device, among which the information of interest will be indicated.

b) Knowing the model and name, you can use the services of the manufacturer’s online resource.

• If you look at the color picture of a TN monitor from different angles from the side, top, bottom, you will see color distortions (up to inversion), fading, and yellowness of the white background. It is impossible to achieve a completely black color - it will be deep gray, but not black.
• IPS can be easily identified by a black picture, which acquires a purple tint when the gaze deviates from the perpendicular axis.
• If the listed manifestations are absent, then this is either a more modern version of IPS or OLED.
• OLED is distinguished from all others by the absence of a backlight, so the black color on such a matrix represents a completely de-energized pixel. And even the best IPS black color glows in the dark due to BackLight.

Let's find out what it is - the best matrix for a monitor.

Which matrix is ​​better, how do they affect vision?

So, the choice in stores is limited to three technologies: TN, IPS, OLED.

It has low cost, has acceptable time delays and constantly improves image quality. But due to the low quality of the final image, it can only be recommended for home use - sometimes to watch a movie, sometimes to play with a toy and from time to time to work with texts. As you remember, the response time of the best models reaches 4 ms. Disadvantages such as poor contrast and unnatural colors cause increased eye fatigue.

IPS This, of course, is a completely different matter! Bright, rich and natural colors of the transmitted image will provide excellent working comfort. Recommended for printing work, designers or those who are willing to pay a tidy sum for convenience. Well, playing will not be very convenient due to the high response - not all copies can boast even 16 ms. Accordingly – calm, thoughtful work – YES. It's cool to watch a movie - YES! Dynamic shooters - NO! But the eyes don't get tired.

OLED. Oh, a dream! Such a monitor can be afforded either by fairly wealthy people or by those who care about the condition of their vision. If it were not for the price, we could recommend it to everyone - the characteristics of these displays have the advantages of all other technological solutions. In our opinion, there are no disadvantages here, except for the cost. But there is hope - the technology is improving and, accordingly, becoming cheaper so that a natural reduction in production costs is expected, which will make them more affordable.

conclusions

Today, the best matrix for a monitor is, of course, Ips/Oled, made on the principle of organic light-emitting diodes, and they are quite actively used in the field of portable technology - mobile phones, tablets and others.

But, if there are no excess financial resources, then you should opt for simpler models, but without fail with LED backlight lamps. The LED lamp has a longer lifespan, stable luminous flux, a wide range of backlight control and is very economical in terms of energy consumption.

As is usually the case with abbreviations used to denote specifics and technical characteristics, there is confusion and substitution of concepts in relation to TFT and IPS. Largely due to unqualified descriptions of electronic devices in catalogs, consumers initially pose the question of choice incorrectly. So, the IPS matrix is ​​a type of TFT matrix, so it is impossible to compare these two categories with each other. However, for Russian consumers, the abbreviation TFT often means TN-TFT technology, and in this case a choice can already be made. So, when talking about the differences between TFT and IPS screens, we will mean TFT screens made using TN and IPS technologies.

TN-TFT- technology for making a matrix of a liquid crystal (thin-film transistor) screen, when the crystals, in the absence of voltage, are rotated to each other at an angle of 90 degrees in the horizontal plane between two plates. The crystals are arranged in a spiral, and as a result, when the maximum voltage is applied, the crystals rotate in such a way that black pixels are formed when light passes through them. Without tension - white.

IPS- technology for making a matrix of a liquid crystal (thin-film transistor) screen, when the crystals are located parallel to each other along a single plane of the screen, and not spirally. In the absence of voltage, the liquid crystal molecules do not rotate.

In practice, the most important difference between an IPS matrix and a TN-TFT matrix is ​​the increased level of contrast due to almost perfect black color display. The picture turns out clearer.

The color rendering quality of TN-TFT matrices leaves much to be desired. Each pixel in this case may have its own shade, different from the others, resulting in distorted colors. IPS already treats images much more carefully.

On the left is a tablet with a TN-TFT matrix. On the right is a tablet with an IPS matrix

The response speed of TN-TFT is slightly higher than that of other matrices. IPS takes time to rotate the entire parallel die array. Thus, when performing tasks where drawing speed is important, it is much more profitable to use TN matrices. On the other hand, in everyday use a person does not notice the difference in response time.

Monitors and displays based on IPS matrices are much more energy-intensive. This is due to the high level of voltage required to rotate the crystal array. Therefore, TN-TFT technology is more suitable for energy saving tasks in mobile and portable devices.

IPS-based screens have wide viewing angles, meaning they do not distort or invert colors when viewed at an angle. Unlike TN, IPS viewing angles are 178 degrees both vertically and horizontally.

Another difference that is important for the end consumer is the price. TN-TFT today is the cheapest and most widespread version of the matrix, which is why it is used in budget electronics models.

Conclusions website

1. IPS screens are less responsive and have longer response times.
2. IPS screens provide better color reproduction and contrast.
3. The viewing angles of IPS screens are significantly greater.
4. IPS screens require more power.
5. IPS screens are more expensive.

Abbreviations are usually used to indicate characteristics or specifics. In this case, there is terrible confusion regarding the comparison of IPS and TFT screens, because IPS technology (matrix) is a type of TFT matrix and nothing more. It is impossible to compare these 2 technologies with each other.

BUT! There is TN-TFT technology - you can make a choice and compare between it and IPS. Therefore, when we talk about which screen is better: IPS or TFT, we mean TFT screens in any case, but made on the basis of different technologies: TN and IPS.

Briefly about TN-TFT and IPS

TN-TFT is the technology on which the LCD screen matrix is ​​made. Here the crystals, when no voltage is applied to their cells, “look” at each other at an angle of 90 degrees. They are arranged in a spiral, and when voltage is applied to them, they rotate in such a way as to form the desired color.

IPS – this technology is different in that here the crystals are arranged parallel to each other in a single plane of the screen (in the first case, spirally). This is all complicated... in practice, the difference between TN and IPS screens is that IPS displays blacks perfectly, resulting in sharper and richer images.

As for TN-TFT, the color rendering quality of this matrix does not inspire confidence. Here, each pixel can have its own hue, hence the colors are distorted. IPS matrices show the picture much better and also handle colors more carefully. IPS also allows you to observe what is happening on the screen from a large angle. If you look at a TN-TFT screen from the same angle, the colors will be distorted so much that it will be difficult to make out the picture.

Advantages of TN

However, TN-TFT matrices have their own advantages. The main one is the lower pixel response speed. IPS needs more time to rotate the entire array of parallel crystals to the desired angle. Therefore, if we are talking about choosing a monitor for games or for displaying dynamic scenes, when drawing speed is very important, then it is best to choose screens based on TN-TFT technology.

On the other hand, during normal work with a PC, it is impossible to notice the difference in pixel response time. It is only visible when viewing dynamic scenes, which often happens in action films and video games.

Another plus is low energy consumption. IPS matrices are energy-intensive, because They need a lot of voltage to rotate the crystal array. Consequently, TFT-based screens are better suited for mobile gadgets where the issue of saving battery power is an urgent issue.

And one more thing - TN-TFT matrices are cheap. You cannot find a monitor today (not counting used or CRT models) that is cheaper than a model based on TN technology. Any budget electronics device with a screen will definitely use a TN-TFT matrix.

So, which screen is better:TFT orIPS:

1. IPS is less responsive due to longer response time (bad for games and action scenes);
2. IPS guarantees almost perfect color reproduction and contrast;
3. IPS has a wider viewing angle;
4. IPS are energy-hungry and consume more electricity;
5. They are also more expensive, while TN-TFT are cheap.

That, in principle, is the whole difference between these matrices. If you take into account all the advantages and disadvantages, then, of course, it is easy to come to a specific conclusion: IPS screens are much better.

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What is important when choosing a monitor? Resolution, screen diagonal, refresh rate, response time? Undoubtedly, but it is also important to decide which matrix is ​​needed, because a number of characteristics that directly influence the choice depend on its type. In some cases, the requirements are the same, for which certain monitors are suitable. In other cases, different characteristics are required, and some screens will definitely have to be excluded from the selection. What types of monitor matrices exist, how they differ, what are their differences - we’ll talk about this.

Modern monitors

Gone are CRT displays made using a vacuum tube (kinescope). They were bulky, heavy, and, naturally, absolutely not suitable for use in mobile technology. They have been replaced by monitors whose screens are made of liquid crystals, hence the name LCD displays, or in foreign words – LCD (Liquid Crystal Displays).

I won’t go into detail about the advantages and disadvantages, they are known, and not so important now, that’s not what we’re talking about today. You need to understand what types of matrices are used in monitors, what is their difference, in which cases it is more reasonable to use one type and in which – another.

TN (Twisted Nematic)

One of the oldest types of matrices, still relevant and used. Currently, a modified version of it, labeled TN+film, is used. Its popularity is based on two main advantages: speed (low response time and latency) and low price. Indeed, a response time of about 1 ms is par for the course.

Even the shortcomings inherent in this screen manufacturing technology cannot put it to rest. And there are enough minuses. These include small viewing angles, poor color rendering, low contrast, and insufficient black depth. Although, if the screen is located directly in front of the owner’s eyes, then the problem with viewing angles somewhat reduces its severity.

The situation is also worsened by the fact that different matrices from different manufacturers can seriously differ from each other. If expensive gaming laptop models or gaming monitors can have a quite passable screen, then in budget devices the display quality can be very mediocre.

How it works

The screen itself is a “sandwich” of two polarizing filters, between which there are electrodes on transparent substrates on both sides of the screen, two metal plates and, in the middle, a layer of liquid crystals. A light filter is installed on the outside of the screen.

Grooves are applied to the glass plates, and in a mutually perpendicular direction, which sets the initial orientation of the crystals. Thanks to this arrangement of grooves, the liquid crystals are twisted into a spiral, which is where the name of the Twisted Nematic technology comes from.

If there is no voltage on the electrodes, then the crystals arranged in a spiral rotate the plane of polarization of the light so that it passes through the second (external) polarizing filter. If a voltage is applied to the electrons, then, depending on the level of this voltage, the liquid crystals unfold, changing the intensity of the passing light. At a certain voltage, the plane of polarization of the light will not change, and the second filter will completely absorb the light.

The presence of two electrodes improves energy efficiency, and partial rotation of the crystals has a beneficial effect on the performance of the matrix.

Due to the fact that in the absence of voltage the crystals transmit light, when defects occur in the matrix (“broken pixels”) they appear as a luminous white dot. In other technologies, such dots are dark.

You can identify the TN matrix “by eye” by looking at the switched-on screen at an angle. And the larger it (the angle) is, the more faded the colors will become, the less contrast the image will become. In some cases, it is even possible to invert colors.

IPS (In-Plane Switching)

Monitors with such a matrix are now the most common competitors to monitors with a TN screen. Almost all the shortcomings of the latter were overcome, unfortunately, sacrificing the advantages that the previous technology had. Monitors with an IPS matrix are a priori more expensive and have a longer response time. For gaming systems, this may be a significant argument for choosing TN.

But for those who professionally work with images, who need high-quality color rendition, a wide color gamut, monitors with such a matrix are the best choice. In addition, there are no problems with viewing angles, the black color is much more similar to black, and does not look like a certain shade of gray, as often happens on TN screens.

How it works

Between the two polarizing filters there is a layer of control microfilm transistors and a layer of liquid crystals having filters of three primary colors. The crystals are located along the plane of the screen.

The planes of polarization of the filters are perpendicular to each other, therefore, in the absence of voltage, light passing through the first filter and polarized in one plane is blocked by the second filter, producing deep blacks. By the way, this is why, if a “dead pixel” appears on the screen, it looks like a black dot, and not white, as is the case with TN matrices.

When voltage appears on the control electrodes, the crystals again rotate along the plane of the screen, transmitting light. This leads to one of the disadvantages of the technology - longer response time. This is due precisely to the need to rotate the entire array of crystals, which wastes time. But it provides viewing angles up to 178° and excellent color rendition.

There are also disadvantages to this technology. This is higher power consumption, since the location of the electrodes on only one side forced an increase in voltage to ensure rotation of the entire array of crystals. The lamps used are also more powerful than in the case of TN, which further increases energy consumption.

IPS options

The technology does not stand still; improvements are being made to it, which have significantly reduced response time and price. So, there are the following options for IPS matrices:

• S-IPS (Super-IPS). Second generation of IPS technology. The screen has a slightly modified pixel structure; improvements have been made to reduce the response time, bringing this parameter closer to the characteristics of TN matrices.
• AS-IPS (Advanced Super-IPS). The next improvement to IPS technology. The main goal was to increase the contrast of S-IPS panels and increase their transparency, becoming closer in this parameter to S-PVA.
• H-IPS. The structure of the pixels has changed, the density of their placement has increased, which makes it possible to further increase the contrast and make the image more uniform.
• H-IPS A-TW (Horizontal IPS with Advanced True Wide Polarizer). Developed by LG. It is based on an H-IPS panel, to which a TW (True White) color filter has been added, which has improved the white color. The use of polarizing film from NEC (Advanced True Wide Polarizer technology) made it possible to get rid of possible glare at large viewing angles (“glow effect”) and, at the same time, increase these angles. This type of matrix is ​​used in professional monitors.
• IPS-Pro (IPS-Provectus). Developed by BOE Hydis. The interpixel distance has been reduced, viewing angles and brightness have been increased.
• AFFS (Advanced Fringe Field Switching, sometimes called S-IPS Pro).
• e-IPS (Enhanced IPS). An increase in light transmission has made it possible to use more economical and cheaper backlight lamps. The response time has decreased, reaching values ​​of 5 ms. Monitors with such matrices usually have a diagonal of up to 24 inches.
• P-IPS (Professional IPS). Professional matrices with 30-bit color depth, an increased number of possible subpixel orientations (1024 versus 256 for the others), which improved color rendition.
• AH-IPS (Advanced High Performance IPS). Matrices of this type are distinguished by the largest viewing angles, high brightness and contrast, and short response time.
• A development from Samsung that makes improvements to the original IPS technology. The company did not disclose details, but it was possible to reduce power consumption and make the response time similar to S-IPS. True, the contrast has deteriorated somewhat, and the uniformity of illumination is not so smooth.

VA (Vertical Alignment)/MVA (Multi-Domain Vertical Alignment)

Technology developed by Fujitsu. In many ways, such screens occupy an intermediate position between TN and IPS options. Thus, viewing angles and color reproduction are better than TN, but worse than IPS. The same goes for response time. At the same time, their cost is lower than that of IPS.

How it works

The principle of operation follows from the name (or the name reflects the principle of operation of this technology). The crystals are located vertically, i.e., perpendicular to the substrate. In the absence of voltage, nothing interferes with the passage of light through the crystals, and a second polarizing filter completely blocks the light and provides deep blacks. This is one of the advantages of technology.

When voltage is applied, the crystals unfold, allowing color to pass through. In the first matrices the viewing angle was very small. This was corrected in a modified version of the technology - MVA, where several crystals were used, located one after another and deflecting synchronously.

VA/MVA options

There are several varieties of this technology, to the development of which different companies have had a hand:

• PVA (Patterned Vertical Alignment). Samsung presented its version of the technology. Details have not been disclosed, but PVA has slightly better contrast and is slightly less expensive. In general, the options are very close and often no distinction is made between them, indicating MVA/PVA.
• S-PVA (Super PVA). Joint development of Sony and Samsung. Improved viewing angles.
• S-MVA (Super MVA). Developed by Chi Mei Optoelectronics/Innolux. In addition to increasing viewing angles, contrast has been improved.
• A-MVA (Advanced MVA). Further development of S-MVA from AU Optronics. Managed to reduce response time.

This option of matrices is the optimal compromise between cheap, but with a lot of shortcomings, TN, and higher quality, but more expensive IPS. Perhaps the only drawback of MVA is the lack of color rendering as the viewing angle increases, especially in midtones. In everyday use this is almost unnoticeable, but professionals who work with images may have doubts about such matrices.

OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode)

A technology that is significantly different from those used today. The cost of matrices, especially large diagonals, and the complexity of production have so far prevented the widespread use of this technology in the production of monitors. Those models that exist are expensive and rare.

How it works

The technology is based on the use of carbon organic materials. When energized, they emit a certain color, and when not energized, they are completely inactive. This allows, firstly, to completely get rid of the backlight, and secondly, to provide an ideal depth of black color. After all, nothing glows or is filtered, therefore there can be no complaints about the black color.

OLED screens provide high brightness and contrast values, excellent viewing angles without distortion. Energy efficiency at a high level. The response speed is inaccessible even to TN matrices.

Still, a number of shortcomings are currently holding back the use of such screens. This includes a short operating time (screens are prone to “burn-in” - an effect that was inherent in plasma panels), a complex production process with a fairly large number of defects, which increases the cost of such matrices.

QD (Quantum Dots)

Another promising technology based on the use of quantum dots. At the moment, there are few monitors made using this technology, and they are not cheap. The technology makes it possible to overcome almost all the disadvantages inherent in all other versions of matrices used in displays. The only drawback is that the black depth does not reach the level of OLED screens.

How it works

The technology is based on the use of nanocrystals ranging in size from 2 to 10 nanometers. The difference in size is not accidental, because this is where the whole trick lies. When voltage is applied to them, they begin to emit light, with a certain wavelength (i.e., a certain color), which depends on the size of these crystals. The color also depends on the material from which the nanocrystals are made:

• Red color – size 10 nm, alloy of cadmium, zinc and selenium.
• Green color - size 6 nm, alloy of cadmium and selenium.
• Blue color – size 3 nm, a compound of zinc and sulfur.

Blue LEDs are used as illumination, and quantum dots responsible for green and red colors are applied to the substrate, and these dots themselves are not ordered in any way. They are just mixed together. The blue light from the LED hitting them causes them to glow at a specific wavelength, forming a color.

This technology allows you to do without installing light filters, since the desired color has already been obtained in advance. This improves brightness and contrast, since it is possible to get rid of one of the layers that make up the screen.

Unlike OLED, black depth is slightly lower. The cost of such screens is still high.

Comparison of matrices made using different technologies

The table contains a brief comparison of the described types of matrices, from which it can be clear where certain types of screens are strong and where they fall short.

Conclusion. Types of monitor matrices - which ones to choose?

Not spoiled for choice, in most cases either TN or IPS screens are used. With the rare exception of any expensive, high-status devices, which use more expensive types of matrices.

Unless you can choose between average-quality displays “for every day” and higher quality ones, which are suitable for the office and will allow you to edit photos.

Users of regular monitors can choose whatever their heart desires and their finances allow. To save money, when it comes to games or office work, a monitor with a TN screen will do just fine.

A universal solution is a monitor with an IPS matrix, or, alternatively, MVA. Wide viewing angles, black color that looks more like real black, and excellent color rendition are guaranteed. The only question is cost and longer response time than TN. However, gaming monitors on such matrices perform excellently, and if the goal is to save money at all costs, then it’s definitely worth considering this option.

Well, professionals in general, in fact, have no alternatives. The choice is between just IPS and again IPS, but with some addition - IPS-Pro, H-IPS, etc.

Promising options are still poorly represented on the market, but if you really want to have something special, then why not?