From LCD to MicroLED: Unveiling the Core Principles and Evolution of Mainstream Display Technologies

Fundamentals and Classification of Display Technologies

  The core of the flat panel display (FPD) industry lies in electro-optical conversion technology, which generates and modulates light through electrical signals to produce images. The current mainstream display technologies primarily include LCD, OLED, and MicroLED. All these technologies are based on the principle of mixing the three primary colors—red, green, and blue (RGB)—to achieve colorization.

LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), as the most mature and widely adopted display solution, operates on the following fundamental principle: a backlight unit emits white light, which passes through polarizers and a liquid crystal layer before reaching RGB color filters to produce the three primary colors. Finally, the brightness of each pixel is adjusted by controlling the orientation of liquid crystal molecules via applied voltage. This process relies on the coordinated work of several core components: the backlight unit, TFT array, liquid crystal layer, and color filters.

In-Depth Analysis and Evolution of LCD Technology

  Traditional LCD structures have inherent limitations in their backlight systems—the entire backlight panel remains constantly illuminated, leading to relatively high power consumption. To address this, the industry introduced MiniLED backlight enhancement technology, which divides the backlight into hundreds or even thousands of independently controlled zones, each equipped with tiny LED chips that can be switched on or off individually, significantly improving contrast and energy efficiency. Quantum dot technology (QLED) is another major advancement, where blue light excites quantum dot nanomaterials (2-10 nm) of different sizes to produce pure red and green light, which then combines with blue light to form high-quality white light. This technology was recognized with the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2023.

  In terms of TFT arrays, the evolution of semiconductor channel materials has directly driven improvements in display performance. From initial amorphous silicon (a-Si:H) to low-temperature polycrystalline silicon (LTPS, fabricated using a 308nm XeCl excimer laser annealing process) and then to oxide semiconductors (such as a-IGZO), the continuous increase in carrier mobility has enabled displays to support higher resolutions and refresh rates. Innovations in liquid crystal layer materials are equally critical, with different alignment methods (such as TN twisted nematic, IPS in-plane switching, and VA vertical alignment) offering varying viewing angles, response times, and contrast characteristics.

Display Modularization and Technology Comparison

  An LCD module (LCD Module) serves as a complete display solution, integrating an LCD screen, driver ICs, a backlight system, and connection interfaces. It is worth noting that MiniLED and QLED essentially still fall under the category of LCD technology, representing improvements to the backlight system, while IPS/TN/VA refer to innovations in liquid crystal layer materials. Compared to OLED technology, LCDs, although requiring a backlight system, offer advantages in lifespan and cost. MicroLED is regarded as the next-generation display technology, combining the high stability of LCD with the self-emissive advantages of OLED, though it still faces challenges in mass production technology.

  As LCD display manufacturers, we must select appropriate technological solutions based on application scenarios. When customizing LCD screens, it is essential to comprehensively consider the combination of backlight type (conventional LED/MiniLED/quantum dot), TFT material (a-Si/LTPS/Oxide), and liquid crystal mode (TN/IPS/VA) to meet specific customer requirements regarding power consumption, resolution, refresh rate, and cost. This modular approach to technology is the core logic behind modern display product development.

About CNK

  Founded in Shenzhen in 2010, CNK Electronics (CNK in brief) expanded the world leading factory in Longyan, Fujian in 2019. It is a specialized and innovative enterprise specializing in the design, development, production and sales of display products. CNK provides customers with a full range of cost-effective small and medium-sized display modules, solutions, and services with excellent quality worldwide. Oriented in technology and high quality, CNK keeps sustainable development, works to offer customers  better and stable services.