Types of matrix displays. Which type of monitor matrix is ​​better? Monitor matrix type AH-IPS

For a number of reasons, liquid crystal screens are in great demand among users and are the most in demand in the domestic market. Modern LCD displays are divided into two types of matrices - IPS and TN. In this regard, many buyers have a question: what is better IPS or TN screen?

In order to understand which technology is better, you should consider all the advantages and disadvantages of IPS and TN screens. However, it is worth noting that both technologies have gone through a long path of development and improvement, which has made it possible to create screens of decent quality. Taking into account some technological features of technologies, depending on the situation, you should choose one or another screen.

When choosing a screen, there are several most important parameters to consider:

• Screen resolution;
• Color rendition;
• Color saturation, contrast and brightness of the image;
• Response time;
• Energy consumption;
• Durability.

1. TN vs IPS

First of all, you should pay attention to the screen resolution. This is one of the most important parameters that directly affects the image quality, as well as the diagonal size. To put it simply, resolution is the number of pixels on the screen vertically and horizontally. For example, a resolution of 1920x1080 means that the screen has 1920 pixels horizontally and 1080 pixels vertically. Accordingly, the higher the resolution, the higher the pixel density, and the clearer the image you can get.

It is worth understanding that modern technologies allow you to enjoy high-resolution video and photo images. Therefore, you should give preference to screens with maximum resolution. Today the highest resolution is 1920x1080 pixels (Full HD). Of course, such monitors or TVs will have a higher cost, but you will be able to fully experience all the benefits of technology.

If we talk about which matrix is ​​better than TN or IPS in terms of resolution, then both technologies are equal. They can be either low or extremely high resolution, it all depends on the cost of the device.

2. Color rendition

Color rendering is a parameter that determines the number of colors and shades displayed by the screen. The saturation of colors, as well as the realism of the picture, depends on this. Modern technologies have made it possible to make screens with a fairly high level of color rendering, regardless of technology. However, there are some differences between IPS and TN screens.

2.1. Color rendition of IPS matrix

The features of this technology made it possible to create a screen with the most realistic colors. It is worth noting that IPS displays are in greatest demand among professional photo editors, as well as among those involved in image processing. This is explained by the fact that IPS monitors have the greatest color depth (black and white), as well as the largest number of displayed colors and shades - about 1.07 billion. This makes the image as realistic as possible.

In addition, IPS screens have the highest brightness and contrast, which also has a positive effect on image quality.

2.2. Color rendering of TN matrices

This type of matrix, although it has a high level of image quality, as well as excellent color rendition, is still significantly inferior to IPS screens. In addition, such matrices have smaller viewing angles.

If it says that TN Film or IPS is better in terms of color rendering, then the answer is clear - IPS matrices are significantly superior to TN+Film screens. Although, at home, any monitor will allow you to enjoy excellent quality and color depth.

3. Response time

This parameter determines the time during which a liquid crystal molecule is able to change its position to display from black to white and back. This is especially important for those who love bright and fast special effects and colorful games. If the response is slow, you will be able to observe an effect called “loop” on the screen. In other words, some shadow will be visible behind fast moving objects. In certain cases this may cause discomfort. Measures response in milliseconds.

3.1. IPS screen response

As mentioned above, IPS screens are famous for their excellent images, clarity and accuracy of the picture, as well as realistic color rendering, however, due to some features of the technology, such displays are inferior in response to TN matrices. Of course, this difference is insignificant and almost invisible at home, but it still exists, and for some it is very important.

It is worth noting that the most modern IPS matrices have a fairly fast response, but they are more expensive than TN+Film screens.

3.2. Response of TN matrices

This type of matrix has the fastest response, which makes such monitors most suitable for fans of games and 3D films with vivid special effects.

If we talk about which IPS or TN matrix is ​​better in terms of response, then TN has an advantage. However, it is worth noting that at home all these advantages are insignificant. The choice depends entirely on personal preference.

4. So, which is better IPS or TN matrix

When choosing between these two technologies, you should take into account your personal requirements, as well as the purpose for which you are purchasing the monitor. Of course, there is an opinion that IPS matrices are a newer technology, and therefore better. However, in some situations the TN+Film matrix is ​​a more suitable choice.

If we talk about which IPS or TN matrix is ​​better for games, then preference should be given to TN+Film. TN monitors are lower cost and also have excellent response. Although, if you are not limited by your budget, then a monitor with an AH-IPS matrix will be the ideal choice for you, since such a monitor combines all the advantages of IPS and TN technologies.

It is worth noting that IPS matrices are slowly but surely replacing TN+Film screens. This is reflected in the fact that every year more and more manufacturers give preference to IPS screens. The advantages of IPS screens also include large viewing angles. Thanks to all the advantages, IPS screens are worthy competitors to plasma panels.

5. Comparison of two LG monitors with TN+FILM and IPS matrices: Video

The popularity of each product depends on two factors. This is the quality of the product and its price. TN matrices, which dominated the market for many years, were attractive due to their low cost. However, with the development of IPS technology and its subsequent reduction in cost, the choice of buyers was predetermined. The laurels of the “people's favorite” went to the new contender.

But it's not that simple. The development of IPS has given rise to many variations of this matrix. The most famous of them is PLS. Which of the two options is better?? What are the differences between other types of IPS? The answers to these questions will guide the buyer to the right choice.

IPS technology

By 1996, the hegemony of TN matrices came to an end. Hitachi and NFC have successfully completed the joint development of innovative technology. IPS matrices were released and presented to the masses.

The main purpose for which this product was created was to replace the outdated TN predecessor. Such ailments as common at that time, such as poor color reproduction, low contrast and small viewing angles, are a thing of the past. New monitors naturally became market leaders.

"In-Plane Switching" literally translates as " intra-site switching". The high image quality of this matrix is ​​achieved due to a fundamentally different arrangement of liquid crystals. If in TN they were arranged in a spiral, then in IPS they were parallel to each other.

Perfect picture

Offers a new solution immediately several advantages, taking this into account, their predecessors simply cannot stand up to the competition:

There was also a small but pleasant detail. Reaction to physical impact is excluded. If you point your finger at a TN monitor, clearly noticeable “waves” will appear at the point of contact, distorting the image. In-Plane Switching does not have this problem.

Not without flaws

However, even such an innovative technology cannot be called ideal. IPS matrices still have obvious disadvantages:

Modern matrices are also not without the above-mentioned disadvantages . However, it would be unfair to say that the technology has remained in place compared to previous variations.

Further development

With the opening in 1996, the desire for a perfect picture only gained momentum. The technology needed to be reduced in cost and improve its high response time. An equally important task was to improve its strengths.

The “inherent” disadvantages of “In-Plane Switching” have become less critical. Especially when compared with what happened in 1996.

However, the cost of this matrix and its response time are still far from ideal. This was the starting point for the development of an alternative that has gained wide popularity in the monitor market.

With the arrival of pls

At the end of 2010, Samsung presented to the world its vision of progress for modern matrices - “Plane-to-Line Switching”. PLS was positioned as a fundamentally new replacement for the imperfect IPS. Representatives of Samsung did not provide any descriptions of their own technology.

True, at one point the corporation indirectly recognized its matrix as a type of IPS. This happened during litigation with LG. The lawsuit filed by Samsung claimed that AH-IPS is a modification of their PLS technology. In fact, this was not true. On the other hand, nothing cancels a number of technical advantages of PLS ​​in comparison with its competitor:

The image quality and RGB color gamut in PLS are in no way inferior to modern IPS. However, data from various expert studies is contradictory. Some conclude that PLS is somewhat superior to its competitor in this regard. D others believe that there is no difference here and both matrices are equal.

The conclusion follows from this: if there is still a difference in image quality/color reproduction between PLS and IPS, then it is insignificant.

Connoisseurs of bright, realistic pictures and clear dynamic scenes are advised to look towards PLS. Yes, the response time of this matrix is ​​slightly higher than that of TN. However, the difference is not critical - the effect of “blurring” of objects on the display is eliminated in both options. But color rendition, brightness, contrast and viewing angles here definitely weigh in favor of PLS. A worthy option for a wide audience interested in games and cinema.

“In-Plane Switching” deserves the attention of those who care exclusively about color rendering (photographers, designers, etc.). The number of modifications of this technology is much wider than the most popular ones that were discussed earlier. However, professional work with graphics and color requires a purely individual approach. A monitor based on a PLS matrix is ​​quite suitable for various tasks. At the same time, it will cost much less than any specific type of IPS.

The average user will also appreciate modern varieties of this matrix. Under two conditions:

1. A monitor based on it has similar characteristics to an analogue based on a PLS matrix that is comparable in the price range.
2. This monitor with a matrix is ​​cheaper than the same analogue on PLS.

Do you want high-quality images with low response times? PLS matrix at your service. Do you need a monitor purely for professional graphics work? The same PLS and many varieties of IPS will satisfy your needs - the choice depends on compliance with the required technical parameters and the cost of the product. Have you found a monitor with a modern IPS matrix, whose characteristics are close to a PLS analogue of comparable price, but at the same time cheaper? A worthy option to purchase.

The first thing you need to decide for what purposes the monitor will be used to a greater extent. Here you can’t do without a superficial acquaintance with the existing types of LCD monitor matrices. There are at least three main types of LCD monitors.

The matrix is ​​an array of pixels that transmit and filter light. This is the main part of the LCD monitor and it determines 90% of its quality. Modern LCD monitors are equipped with three different types of matrices; each type, regardless of the specific model, has the same advantages and disadvantages in relation to each other; only the severity of these qualities and disadvantages depends on the specific model.

1) TN - the oldest and cheapest type of matrix to produce, it is characterized by minimal response time, relatively poor color reproduction, small viewing angles with noticeable color distortion when changing the viewing angle (especially vertically - “negative effect”), low contrast, gray "black color. Well suited for dynamic games, if, of course, the color rendering of a particular model is at an acceptable level for virtual entertainment.

2) VA (MVA, PVA and other names with -VA) - pixel response time is longer than on TN, but at the same time quite good color reproduction, large viewing angles without significant color distortion when changing the viewing angle, high contrast, at a price more expensive than TN . One might say, the golden mean, suitable for everything and has a relatively low price.

3) S-IPS - longer matrix response time than VA and, accordingly, TN, but at the same time excellent color reproduction, almost ideal viewing angles (virtually no visible color distortion when viewing angle decreases), good contrast, very expensive. Best suited for anything where fast pixel response is not important. However, models of S-IPS monitors with a relatively short response time, which use overdrive technology, are already beginning to appear on the market, which, although they are not able to compete with TN and VA (which use overdrive) in terms of response time, but already allow you to comfortably use Such a monitor is also suitable for demanding applications (games), however, at a fairly high, sometimes unreasonably price.

Using the Monitor

1. Monitor for games. The optimal type of matrix is ​​TN, taking into account the pixel response time. It is not recommended to work professionally with graphics programs on it. For games (gamers), such a parameter as “pixel response time” is one of the main ones. If the pixel response time is too long, then we will see the so-called “trail”, that is, smearing of the picture in dynamic scenes (games and watching movies). The minimum acceptable pixel response value for modern games is 7–8 milliseconds, the optimal is 2–5 ms, that is, for games, the lower this number, the better. Accordingly, the lower this number, the more expensive the monitor. Although, I can’t help but say that in fact our eye no longer perceives the difference between 2 ms and 5 ms, so in this case one may ask the question - why pay more? There is another interesting nuance associated with the far biased parameters indicated in those passports. The fact is that the response time may differ depending on the applied standard. Any company is interested in selling its products at a higher price, while specifying maximum parameters according to favorable standards. As a result, we get that 2–5 ms is quite enough for games and watching movies.

2. Monitor for working with graphics programs(there is also a definition – monitor for “static”). This type of monitor is adapted to a greater extent for working with static objects and to a lesser extent for watching movies and games. In most cases, it is purchased by designers, artists, photographers, and people working with static graphics. The optimal type of matrix is ​​S-IPS (also PVA, but to a lesser extent). As already mentioned, this type of S-IPS matrix is ​​the slowest and is probably the worst suited for gaming and watching videos (especially in BD and HD quality), it is also the most expensive type of monitor.

3. Universal monitor can be used both for games and for graphic work, but it should be noted that finding the optimal middle can be quite difficult. You still have to sacrifice something, deciding what is more important: a good game and watching a high-quality movie or working with graphics. The optimal type of matrix is ​​VA (MVA, PVA and other names with -VA).

The division of monitors into these three types is arbitrary, since each model has its own parameters, which should be taken into account when choosing a monitor.

Main technical indicators of the monitor.

1. Types of matrices - the technology by which the LCD display is made; the main ones are TN (TN+film), IPS, MVA/PVA.

2. Response time (matrix reaction time) - the minimum time required for a pixel to change its brightness; the shorter it is, the better. Defined in milliseconds (ms).

3. Resolution - horizontal and vertical dimensions, expressed in pixels. Unlike CRT monitors, LCDs have one fixed resolution, the rest are achieved by interpolation.

4. Point size (pixel size) - the distance between the centers of adjacent pixels. Directly related to physical resolution.

5. Screen aspect ratio (proportional format) - width to height ratio (5:4, 4:3, 3:2 (15÷10), 8:5 (16÷10), 5:3 (15÷9), 16:9, etc.)

6. Contrast - the ratio of the brightness of the lightest and darkest points at a given backlight brightness. Some monitors use an adaptive backlight level using additional lamps; the contrast figure given for them (the so-called dynamic) does not apply to a static image.

7. Brightness - The amount of light emitted by the display, usually measured in candelas per square meter.

8. Viewing angle is the maximum angle from which the viewer is able to discern a clear image on the LCD monitor screen.

9. Monitor diagonal (size) is the length of the diagonal at the outer corners of the screen. Defined in inches - 1 inch = 2.54 cm.

The article will be updated.

01. 07.2018

Blog of Dmitry Vassiyarov.

IPS or VA - weighing all the pros and cons

Good day to my subscribers and new readers of this interesting blog. The topic of LCD monitors requires mandatory coverage of another competitive confrontation, and today I will present you with information that will help you determine whether an IPS or VA matrix is ​​better.

Although this task is not easy, because you will not find such a significant difference as in the case here. But let's talk about everything in order, which we have already worked out and begins with history and continues with technological nuances.

The idea of ​​using the property of liquid nematic crystals to change the polarization of the light flux under the influence of electricity was first commercially implemented in screens with a TN matrix. In it, each beam coming from the backlight to the RGB filters of the pixel passed through a module that consisted of two polarizing gratings (oriented perpendicularly to block light), electrodes, and a twisted nematic (TN) crystal located inside the crystal.

Of course, the emergence of a competitor in the late 80s in the form of a thin, flat screen with high resolution, flicker-free and low power consumption was, in fact, a technological revolution. But, unfortunately, according to the most important criterion (image quality), LCD panels were significantly inferior to CRT displays. This is what forced leading companies to improve the technology of active TFT matrices.

Modern technologies with 20 years of history

1996 was a turning point, when several companies presented their developments at once:

• Hitachi placed both electrodes on the side of the first polarizing filter and changed the orientation of the molecules in the crystal, connecting them in the plane (In-Plane Switching). The technology received the appropriate name.
• Specialists from NEC came up with something similar; they didn’t bother with the name, denoting their innovation simply SFT - super fine TFT (perhaps that’s why Hitachi’s formulation turned out to be more tenacious, and later became the designation of a whole class of matrices).
• Fujitsu took a different route, minimizing the size of the electrodes and changing the direction of their force field. This was necessary in order to effectively control the vertically oriented (Vertical Alignment -) crystal molecules, which had to be deployed much more strongly in order to completely transmit (or block as much as possible) the light beam.

New technologies differed from TN in that in the inactive position the light beam remained blocked. Visually, this manifested itself in the fact that the dead pixel now looked dark rather than light. But to move on to other dramatic changes in technology, it's worth noting that innovation wasn't perfect. IPS and VA matrices were finalized and improved with the participation of leading electronic corporations.

The most active in this are Sony, Panasonic, LG, Samsung and, of course, the development companies themselves. Thanks to them, we have many variations of IPS (S-IPS, H-IPS, P-IPS IPS-Pro) and two main modifications of VA technology (MVA and PVA), each of which has its own characteristics.

Advantages that are more important than disadvantages

It was necessary to write about the history of technology development so that you understand: we will consider IPS and VA matrices in their improved version. I will determine the difference between them based on the main criteria for image quality and operating features:

• The increasing complexity of the process of changing the orientation of liquid crystal molecules in an IPS and, to an even greater extent, in a VA matrix has resulted in an increase in response time and an increase in energy consumption. Compared to TN technology, they both began to “slow down” in dynamic scenes, which resulted in the appearance of a trail or blur. This is a significant disadvantage for VA monitors, but, in fairness, it is worth noting that IPS is not much better in terms of response time;
• In principle, the same can be said about the energy consumption of the matrix. But if we consider an LCD monitor in general, in which 95% of the electricity is consumed by the backlight, then there is no difference at all in this indicator between VA and IPS;
• Now let's move on to the parameters that were significantly improved after changes were made to the active LCD matrix technology. And let's start with the viewing angle, which has become a significant advantage, especially in IPS screens (at 175º). In VA monitors, even after significant improvements, it was possible to achieve a value of 170º, and even then, when viewing from the side, the image quality drops: the picture dims and detail in the shadows disappears;

• Contrast is one of the criteria used to choose for use in a lit room, and if you are not going to lead an exclusively nocturnal lifestyle, then it is worth paying attention to. Have you forgotten that liquid crystal molecules in a VA matrix are able to absorb light more closely? Together with the specific shape of the pixel grid, this provides them with the deepest blacks, and with it the best contrast of all LCD monitors. In IPS screens this indicator is slightly worse, but they still show excellent results compared to TN technology;

• The situation is similar with brightness. Both matrices are much better than TN by this criterion, but in the head-to-head competition, the clear leader is VA monitors. Again, due to the crystal's ability to provide maximum throughput to the light beam;
• And to end the comparison on a nice neutral note, I'll talk about color rendering. She is absolutely amazing at both VA and IPS. This is because, along with excellent contrast, a red, green and blue pixel is used to obtain the hue, the brightness of which can be determined by 8 (and in new models, 10) bit encoding. As a result, this allows both technologies to obtain more than 1 billion shades and comparison is inappropriate here.

If you have noticed, I try not to use the price criterion when determining the best matrix. This is because the difference is insignificant, and it is impossible to purchase the required function. Moreover, you yourself know: there are different brands whose name clearly affects the price tag.

Now let's move on to practice, because I hope that many of you read this article with a specific goal: to find out what is better IPS or VA matrix and which screen to buy? Considering the above advantages and disadvantages of these technologies, the following conclusions can be drawn:

• Both types of matrices produce excellent images and are used in top models of monitors and televisions;
• Those who like to play shooters and racing games should give preference to IPS technology;
• If the screen works outdoors or in a lit room, take VA;
• If the screen is viewed from different angles, choose IPS;
• You need a clear display of details (office documents, drawings, dispatch diagrams) - take a VA monitor.

In reality, several factors have to be taken into account, so everyone makes their own choice of screen based on the type of matrix.

This concludes my long story.

I will be glad if the information I provided was useful to you. I will end here.

Goodbye, good luck everyone!

In-Plane Switching(also Super Fine TFT) - technology for manufacturing liquid crystal displays.

IPS or SFT (Super Fine TFT) technology was developed by Hitachi and NEC in 1996 as an alternative to TN (Twisted Nematic) technology.

These companies use these two different names for the same technology - NEC uses "SFT" and Hitachi uses "IPS". The technology was intended to overcome the shortcomings of TN+ film. Although IPS was able to increase the viewing angle to 178°, as well as high contrast and color reproduction, the response time remained at a low level. A TN matrix usually has better response than IPS, but not always. So, when transitioning from gray to gray, the IPS matrix behaves better.

This matrix is ​​also pressure resistant. Touching a TN or VA matrix results in a “excitement” or a certain reaction on the screen. The IPS matrix does not have this effect.

In addition, ophthalmologists confirm that the IPS matrix is ​​more comfortable for the eyes.

Thus, the IPS matrix provides a bright and clear picture regardless of viewing angles, which is optimal for surfing the Internet and watching movies. But the most important thing is for image processing and viewing photos.

At the moment, matrices made using IPS technology are the only LCD monitors that transmit the full RGB color depth - 24 bits, 8 bits per channel.

Previously, IPS technology was used exclusively for professional monitors, since it is the most adequate of all LCD panel production technologies to convey the color gamut. However, LG has taken a revolutionary step to bring it to the mass market.

As of 2012, many monitors on IPS matrices (e-IPS manufactured by LG.Displays) with 6 bits per channel have already been released. Older TN matrices are 6-bits per channel, just like the MVA part.

IPS has now been replaced by H-IPS technology, which inherits all the advantages of IPS technology while simultaneously reducing response time and increasing contrast. The color color of the best H-IPS panels is not inferior to conventional CRT monitors. H-IPS and cheaper e-IPS are actively used in panels from 20" in size. LG Display, Dell, NEC, Samsung, Chimei remain the only manufacturers of panels using this technology.

Types of IPS matrices

IPS (Super TFT). This is the basic level of technology. The advantage is wide viewing angles. Most panels also support true-to-life color reproduction (8-bits per channel).

S-IPS (Super-IPS). This type of matrix inherits all the advantages of IPS technology while simultaneously reducing response time.

AS-IPS (Advanced Super-IPS)- developed by Hitachi Corporation. The improvements mainly concerned the contrast level of conventional S-IPS panels, bringing it closer to the contrast of S-PVA panels. This type of panel improves mainly the contrast ratio of the extended color gamut of traditional S-IPS panels to a level where they are second only to some S-PVA panels.

H-IPS (Horizontal IPS). An even greater contrast and a visually more uniform screen surface have been achieved.

H-IPS A-TW (Horizontal IPS with Advanced True Wide Polarizer)- developed by LG Display for NEC Corporation. It is an H-IPS panel with a TW (True White) color filter to make the white color more realistic and increase viewing angles without distorting the image (the effect of glowing LCD panels at an angle is eliminated - the so-called “glow effect”) . Advanced True Wide Polarizer technology uses NEC polarizing film to achieve wider viewing angles and eliminate glare when viewed from an angle. This type of panel is used to create high quality professional monitors.

IPS-Pro (IPS-Provectus). IPS Alpha panel technology with a wider color gamut and contrast comparable to PVA and ASV displays without corner glow.

AFFS (Advanced Fringe Field Switching, unofficial name - S-IPS Pro). The increased power of the electric field made it possible to achieve even greater viewing angles and brightness, as well as reduce the interpixel distance. AFFS-based displays are mainly used in tablet PCs, on matrices manufactured by Hitachi Displays.

e-IPS (Enhanced IPS) uses backlight lamps that are cheaper to produce and have lower energy consumption. The diagonal viewing angle has been improved, the response time has been reduced to 5 ms.

P-IPS (Professional IPS) provides 1.07 billion colors (30-bit color depth). More possible subpixel orientations (1024 versus 256) and better true color depth.

AH-IPS (Advanced High Performance IPS). Improved color rendering, increased resolution and PPI, increased brightness and reduced power consumption.

PLS technology

PLS matrix (Plane-to-Line Switching) was developed by Samsung as an alternative to IPS and was first demonstrated in December 2010.
Advantages:

• pixel density is higher compared to IPS (and similar to *VA/TN);
• high brightness and good color rendition;
• large viewing angles;
• full sRGB coverage;
• low power consumption comparable to TN.

Flaws:

• response time (5–10 ms) comparable to S-IPS, better than *VA, but worse than TN;

PLS and IPS

Samsung has not provided a description of PLS ​​technology. Comparative microscopic studies of IPS and PLS matrices by independent observers revealed no differences. The fact that PLS is a type of IPS was indirectly recognized by Samsung itself in its lawsuit against LG: the lawsuit alleged that the AH-IPS technology used by LG is a modification of PLS ​​technology.