Flat panel display facts for kids
A flat panel display is a thin screen that shows images or information. You see them everywhere, like on your computer, television, or even at the airport. These displays are much thinner and lighter than old-fashioned, bulky screens called cathode ray tubes (CRTs).
Most flat panel displays today use a technology called Liquid Crystal Display (LCD). This technology uses special liquid crystals to control light and create the images you see.
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How Flat Panel Displays Work
Flat panel displays create images by controlling tiny dots of light called pixels. Each pixel can change color very quickly. This allows the screen to show moving pictures, text, and graphics.
Types of LCD Technology
There are different ways LCD screens are made. Two common types are Twisted Nematic (TN) and In-Plane Switching (IPS).
Twisted Nematic (TN) Displays
- Cost: TN displays are usually cheaper to make.
- Colors: They might not show colors as accurately as other types.
- Viewing Angle: If you look at a TN screen from the side, the colors can look different. This is called a limited viewing angle.
- Speed: TN displays are often very fast, which is good for gaming.
In-Plane Switching (IPS) Displays
- Cost: IPS displays are more expensive to produce.
- Colors: They show colors very well and accurately.
- Viewing Angle: You can look at an IPS screen from almost any angle, and the colors will still look great.
- Speed: IPS displays can be a bit slower to react than TN screens.
Uses of Flat Panel Displays
Flat panel displays are used in many devices we use every day.
- Computers and Laptops: Almost all modern computers and laptops use flat panel screens.
- Televisions: Most TVs sold today are flat panel displays, offering large, clear pictures.
- Smartphones and Tablets: These small devices also use flat panel technology to show apps and videos.
- Information Boards: You can see them at train stations, airports, or bus stops, showing schedules and announcements.
- Digital Signs: Many stores and public places use large flat panel displays for advertising or showing important messages.
Images for kids
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Information on two types of flat-panel display at the Zürich Hauptbahnhof railway station: an orange LED display (top right) and a LCD screen (bottom)
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An LCD screen used as an information display for travellers
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A large LED display at the Taipei Arena displays commercials and movie trailers.
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Amazon's Kindle Keyboard e-reader displaying a page of an e-book. The Kindle's image of the book's text will remain onscreen even if the battery runs out, as it is a static screen technology. Without power, however, the user cannot change to a new page.
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See also
In Spanish: Pantalla plana para niños
