Small, midsize options cater to various applications

Hong Kong suppliers provide mainly small and medium TFT-LCD modules in 1.1 to 17in models. Their catalogs typically have readymade units suitable for mobile phones, portable DVD and media players, digital cameras and photo frames, video door phones, GPS devices and car entertainment systems. Recycled and refurbished variants are also available, but output is small and unstable.

Some companies can customize products to buyers’specifications. Existing models can likewise be modified to consume less power, reduce costs, extend operating life, widen the temperature range or shift to compatible driver ICs.

Consisting of a panel, driver board, backlight and interface, TFT-LCD modules are offered with LED or CCFL backlighting and optional touchscreen. The interface options include serial digital input, analog and digital RGB, and 1 or 2-channel LVDS.

Some suppliers have development, design, manufacturing and software engineering services in-house. Besides the modules, a few offer related display components and mechanical parts as well.

Many note faster sales growth for the category than other types such as STN, TN and CSTN. This is why most rollouts and development and marketing efforts are now focused on the line.
There are at least 10 makers in the territory. Some are longtime suppliers of 7-segment, character and graphics LCD modules that have expanded their lineups. A few are capable of manufacturing their own panels. Some are trading firms that function as one-stop sourcing houses for various mainland China-based factories and overseas brands.

Microtech Technology Co. Ltd offers design and manufacturing services for TFT-LCD modules. It has 1.7, 2, 3.5, 4.3, 5.7 and 7in models, mostly with LED-backlit transmissive panels. Various displays are also in the company’s selection.

Winkle Industries Ltd specializes in standard and custom-made TFT-LCD modules and components. The vertically integrated solution provider offers a range of mobile phone-suitable units of the first with optional touch panels.