IPS screen technology what. Design features of smartphone screens

In order to understand IPS technology, you need to start directly with the LCD panel itself. It combines two modules: LED backlight and a matrix consisting of liquid crystals, which creates the image.

The operating principle of such a panel is based on changing the light intensity. Coming from the backlight module and passing between two polarized glass plates, the light changes its intensity in the crystal matrix depending on the degree of electrical discharge voltage. In fact, the liquid crystals are spun at a certain angle and allow only the required amount of light to pass through the glass plate and color filter. This ensures the display of the picture that we see on the TV screen.

The general design of LCD panels is quite similar, but the differences begin when we talk about the nuances of the polarization of light passing through liquid crystals. The characteristics of the matrix - for example, viewing angles - depend on the way the crystals are oriented in space.

LCD panel

1. 1 Polarizer
2. 2 Glass
3. 3 Color filter
4. 4 Liquid crystals
5. 5 Glass
6. 6 Polarizer
7. 7 Rear module
   backlight

IPS (from the English In-Plane Switching)

A technology for creating liquid crystal panels in which the crystals operate in the same plane between the substrate and the polarizer. At rest, the crystals are “closed” and show a black color, and when voltage (E) is applied, they rotate through a certain angle (up to 90 degrees) and transmit the required amount of light. Since the rotation occurs in one plane, the IPS LCD panel looks stable from different angles.

Application

Today, IPS technology is extremely popular and is used in displays everywhere. It can be found on TV screens, monitors, laptops, mobile devices - almost anywhere where a high-quality color display with wide viewing angles is needed. IPS technology received a special status from graphic designers, because it provides stable characteristics color reproduction regardless of the viewer’s position relative to the screen.

TECHNICAL INFORMATION

A typical IPS LCD uses a thin film transistor (TFT) substrate to drive the pixels. Each pixel contains three RGB filters that extract the desired color from the white LED backlight. In some models, quantum dots can be added to conventional filters, highlighting a wider RGB spectrum. Received on IPS color image can be up to 10 bits per color channel.

Comparative characteristics

Color displays on IPS LCD panels have certain advantages over other types of LCD displays. The main property of IPS is the ability to demonstrate a stable picture from different angles due to the fact that liquid crystals operate in the same plane. The image remains clear and legible regardless of the viewer's position relative to the screen, ensuring optimal color reproduction.

The response time of IPS technology is close to the fastest LCD panels, so there are no trails or other artifacts in dynamic images. Another advantage of IPS is the high light transmittance when the crystals are in an “open” state. Due to this, the backlight power is used more efficiently. At the same backlight level, the image on IPS becomes brighter than others LED technologies LCD, which means the TV consumes less energy.

We continue the section devoted to how to choose the right smartphone that will delight the user. We have already talked about what they are, what is better, pros and cons. Today we will talk about choosing a smartphone screen. The topic is quite complex and extensive, since by now there are many technologies for the production of displays, their protection, in addition, they are presented in a variety of diagonals, with different ratios, and so on. It is the screen that often becomes a stumbling block when choosing a smartphone. It's not surprising. The display is exactly the part of the device with which we have to work more. If you make the wrong choice, there is a high probability that the screen will cause a lot of inconvenience: poor-quality picture, low brightness, poor sensitivity. But don’t worry, today we will touch on each aspect, telling you about all the intricacies of choosing a smartphone screen.

Smartphone matrix type

It’s worth starting with the type of matrix. The quality will largely depend on the choice of screen matrix type. So, today it is customary to distinguish three varieties:

1. TN+film
2. AMOLED

The first two are based on liquid crystals, the second on organic light-emitting diodes. Each type is represented by several subtypes (in the case of IPS there are more than 20 different ones), which are one way or another found in the production of panels.

Some of you are wondering: “Where is TFT?” Due to ignorance of some resources, this abbreviation is often used to designate the type of matrix, which is incorrect. The term TFT refers to thin film transistors used to organize the operation of subpixels. They are used in almost every type of matrix under consideration. Transistors also come in several varieties, one of which is LTPS (polycrystalline silicon). LTPS is a relatively new subtype, which is distinguished by lower energy consumption and more compact size transistors, which is reflected in the pixel sizes. The result: higher pixel density, higher quality and clearer picture.

TN+film

Let's return to matrices. Most of the matrices familiar to us, as already noted, are liquid crystal, that is, LCD. The principle is to polarize the light that passes through the filter, turning it into the appropriate colors. The first of the types of liquid crystal matrices is TN+film. With the spread of "film" was dropped, shortening the name to "TN". The simplest type, which is now quite outdated and is used only in the cheapest smartphones (and even then, we still need to find it). TN cannot boast of good viewing angles or contrast, and has poor color rendering.

In general, avoid TN when choosing a smartphone screen - the type is outdated.

IPS

Next comes IPS. This technology is also not young - its age has already exceeded 20 years. Meanwhile, IPS matrices are most widespread in the smartphone market. Open any online store, choose the first smartphone you come across and see my words. This type of matrices is also presented in budget segment, and in the flagship. In addition to improved characteristics, when compared with TN, IPS have received a large number of varieties. However, you don’t need to understand everything – the smartphone market is dominated by two types: AH-IPS and PLS. Their creators are two largest companies South Korea and the whole world: LG and Samsung, respectively. What is the difference? It's practically non-existent. The two types of matrices are like twin brothers, so you can choose a smartphone with any of them without fear. Identity has even become the basis for litigation between companies.

IPS boasts wider viewing angles than TN, good color reproduction and high pixel density, which provides a gorgeous picture. But the power consumption is approximately the same - in any case, LEDs are used for illumination. Since there are quite a few types of IPS matrices, they also differ in their characteristics. This difference can be seen even by eye. Cheaper IPS may be too faded, or, on the contrary, have an oversaturated color. What makes choosing a smartphone screen more difficult is that manufacturers are often silent about the type of matrix.

Definitely, when choosing between a TN and IPS screen, preference is given to the latter.

AMOLED

Even more modern type, which today is common, as a rule, among high-end smartphones. AMOLED are represented by organic light-emitting diodes, which do not require external illumination, as is the case with IPS or TN - they glow themselves. Already at this moment one can highlight their first advantage - smaller sizes. Next – AMOLED is presented with more saturated colors. Black looks especially good, during which the LED simply goes out. AMOLED displays have higher contrast, boast wider viewing angles and lower power consumption (there are some nuances). It's just a fairy tale, isn't it? But before choosing a smartphone with an AMOLED screen, you should know about its disadvantages.

The most important disadvantage is considered to be a shorter service life compared to IPS. After a certain period of time (as a rule, changes in color are observed after three years), on average after 6-10 years, the pixels begin to “burn out.” Moreover, bright colors are especially susceptible to fading, so users often use dark themes design in order to extend service life. In addition, power consumption is significantly affected by the brightness of the colors on the screen. If displayed bright picture in light colors, AMOLED consumes more power than IPS. Finally, matrices based on organic light-emitting diodes are more expensive to produce.

Be that as it may, this does not negate manufacturability and AMOLED quality. Sores in the form of “burning out pixels” are gradually cured, and subtypes of matrices appear that become better. For example, Super AMOLED. This variety appeared seven years ago, bringing a lot of improvements. Power consumption has been reduced and brightness increased. In addition, the air gap between the touchscreen and the matrix has disappeared, which increased the sensitivity of the screen and also eliminated the ingress of dust.

AMOLED today is considered the most technologically advanced matrices that are actively developing. If until recently they were used mainly in Samsung smartphones, today they are chosen by a huge number of smartphone manufacturers (almost every major brand has presented a solution with an AMOLED screen.

Design features of smartphone screens

But you should not only consider the type of matrix when choosing a smartphone screen. Is there some more a whole bunch features that determine the final quality of the picture and the feeling of use. We will focus on the most important points.

Air gap

Until recently, the screens of all smartphones were represented by two components: the touch layer and the matrix itself. There was an air gap between them, the thickness of which depended directly on the manufacturer. Naturally, the thinner the layer, the better. Companies regularly reduced the air layer, making the picture quality higher and viewing angles wider. Relatively recently, it was possible to completely get rid of the air gap thanks to OGS technology. Now the sensor layer and matrix are connected together. Despite the significant improvement in quality, there is an obvious drawback. If the OGG screen is damaged, it will have to be completely replaced, while in displays with an air layer, only the glass takes the hit.

Be that as it may, more and more manufacturers are choosing OGS screens. And we advise you to give preference to this technology. Believe me, there is no need to worry about complex repairs for the feelings that you will experience when using such a display.

A relatively recent thread that Samsung brought to the market with its flagship Galaxy S6 Edge (also Galaxy Note, but only one edge was bent). The South Korean manufacturer will continue to develop the idea in subsequent smartphones, but other companies did not share the idea too much. The company bends the right and left edges of the devices - the screen seems to float onto the ends. This is done not only for the sake of spectacular appearance, but also for user convenience. Additional functions are placed here, and notifications can also be displayed here. A fascinating feature, but not for everyone.

Samsung was the most successful in implementing a curved display, so if you are interested in such a design, we recommend considering the solutions of the South Korean brand.

An even more recent trend is screens without frames. The progenitor is the Sharp company, which showed the first frameless smartphone back in 2014, but users were attracted by the frameless Mi Mix, shown in 2016. By the summer of 2017, a number of companies announced plans to release similar gadgets. Today the market is rapidly filling up, with the newest models costing less than $100.

To date, there are several variations of the frameless screen: elongated displays, which have reduced frames at the top and bottom; familiar displays without frames on three sides (except for the bottom). The first type includes the Samsung Galaxy S8 and a couple of smartphones from LG (G6 and). To the second - Doogee Mix, Xiaomi Mi Mix and many others, whose ranks are constantly replenished.

Frameless smartphones look really cool, and the low cost gives everyone the opportunity to try modern technologies.

The famous company Apple introduced the iPhone 6S new technology at the time of release - 3D Touch. With it, the screen began to respond not only to touches, but also to the force of pressing. Technology began to be used, as a rule, to accomplish some quick action. Also, 3D Touch made it possible to work with text, draw with greater comfort (the brush reacts to the force of pressure) and so on. The function did not become something completely unusual, but it found its user. Later similar technology appeared 6, was also declared in .

Type of touch screens

Not a particularly important criterion when choosing a smartphone screen, but, nevertheless, let’s dwell on it a little. There are several types touch displays: matrix (very, very rare) resistive and capacitive. Until recently, resistive screens were widespread everywhere, but today they are presented only in very rare and cheap smartphones. This type is different in that it responds to any touch: with a finger, a pen, or even control another phone. It only supports one touch and does not always work accurately. In general, an outdated type.

Capacitive screens are significantly superior to their predecessors. They already support more than one simultaneous touch, different better sensitivity, work much more accurately. However, their production is more expensive.

Whatever one may say, the vast majority of companies have abandoned resistive screens in smartphones. And this is for the better. In addition, the cost of capacitive ones is constantly decreasing, which allows manufacturers to install them in the cheapest smartphones.

One more important aspect when selecting a smartphone screen is the number of simultaneous touches. This parameter determines what operations you can perform on the display. The first smartphones equipped resistive screens, were limited to one simultaneous touch, which was not always enough. The screens of modern smartphones often support 2, 3, 5 or 10 simultaneous touches. What gives a large number of simultaneous touches:

• Scaling and zooming. One of the first features that appeared on the iPhone, the first smartphone to support two simultaneous touches. So, you can reduce or enlarge images by pinching or spreading your fingers on the screen.
• Gesture control. Multiple fingers make it possible to use different gestures.
• Game controls. Most modern games require the use of several fingers at the same time.

You shouldn't chase support for 10 simultaneous touches if you don't play on a smartphone. For the vast majority of users, 5 touches are enough, and even less demanding users will not experience discomfort with 2.

Significant parameters when choosing a smartphone screen go hand in hand. The display diagonal reflects its dimensions in inches.

An inch corresponds to 2.54 centimeters. For example, the screen diagonal of a 5-inch smartphone in centimeters is 12.7 centimeters. note: The diagonal is measured from corner to corner of the screen, without affecting the frame.

Which screen diagonal should I choose? You will have to answer this question yourself. The modern smartphone market offers the most different diagonals, starting from about 3.5-4 inches, ending at almost 7 inches. There are also more compact options, but you can ignore them - working with miniature icons is not very convenient. The best way choose the diagonal - personally hold the smartphone in your hands. If you are comfortable using one hand, then the diagonal is “yours”.

It is also impossible to recommend specific numbers because each person has a different hand size and finger length. For one, 6 inches is comfortable to use, for others, even 5 inches is too much. It is also worth considering that smartphones with the same diagonal can be of different sizes in general. A simple example: a 5.5-inch is comparable to a 5-inch model with regular frames. Therefore, when choosing a smartphone screen, it is advisable to also take into account the thickness of the frames.

Be that as it may, there is a trend towards increasing screen diagonals. If in 2011 the vast majority of users were limited to 4 inches, then in 2014 largest percentage belonged to 5 inches, today the market is being captured by solutions with 5.5 inches.

With resolution the situation is simpler.

Resolution reflects the number of pixels per unit area. How higher resolution– the better the quality of the picture. Again, the same resolution looks different on two different diagonals. Here it is worth mentioning the pixel density per inch, which is denoted by the abbreviation PPI. The same rule applies here as in the case of resolution: the higher the density, the better. True, experts do not agree on the exact figure: some claim that a comfortable value starts at 350 PPI, others cite larger numbers, and still others – smaller ones. It is worth remembering that human vision is very individual: someone will not see a pixel even at 300 PPI, while another will find something to complain about even at 500 PPI.

• with a diagonal of up to 4-4.5 inches, most smartphones receive a resolution of 840x480 pixels (approximately 250 PPI);
• from 4.5 to 5 inches, HD resolution (1280x720 pixels) is a good choice (density ranges from 326 to 294 PPI)
• more than 5 inches – you should look towards FullHD (1920x1080 pixels) or even higher resolutions

Latest Samsung smartphones and a number of models from other companies receive a resolution of 2560×1440 pixels, which provides high density pixels and a clear picture. The recent flagship from Sony was presented with a 4K screen resolution, which at 5.5 inches guarantees a record 801 PPI.

Screen coating

Until recently, the screens of mobile devices were covered with ordinary plastic, which quickly scratched, distorted color reproduction, and did not have a very tactile feel. It was replaced by glass, which doesn’t care about keys lying in your pocket. Nowadays there is not a single type of glass on the market that differs in strength and, accordingly, in price. 2.5D glass with curved edges has gained particular popularity today. They not only guarantee high reliability, but also give the smartphone a more stylish look.

In addition, the screens of modern smartphones have a special grease-repellent coating (oleophobic layer), which ensures good finger gliding and also prevents stains. To determine the presence of an oleophobic layer, just place a drop of water on the screen. The better the drop retains its shape (does not spread), the better the quality of the layer.

Naturally, the quality of the oleophobic layer and glass affect the cost of the smartphone. You're unlikely to find budget model, which will boast the same durable glass as the flagship solution. Today, the most popular manufacturer of safety glasses is Corning, whose line is ending Gorilla Glass 5.

Additional screen

If one display is not enough for you, then a number of companies offer smartphones with additional screens. They are usually small and serve to display notifications. And YotaPhone 2, known to many, offers a second E-link display that occupies the entire back side, which is convenient to read. IN model range LG has solutions with a small screen that displays notifications. Recently, a similar smartphone with additional screen Meizu also made a mark with its flagship.

The second screen is a rather unique feature that not everyone needs. However, its user similar smartphones they find, and more than one.

Conclusion

Well, it seems like we talked about all the intricacies of choosing a smartphone screen. The material turned out to be quite extensive, we hope everyone will find answers to their questions. You shouldn’t chase the most expensive screen, but saving too much is also contraindicated - we’re looking for that golden mean. Although the current mobile electronics market itself will direct you in the right direction, pointing out what is popular and in demand. Today, the risk of stumbling upon a low-quality display that will be dull when pressed is much lower; manufacturers have significantly raised the quality bar. Even third-tier companies use quite high-quality matrices in their ultra-budget smartphones. Well, all we can do is wish you good luck in your choice.

By the way, the line of articles about the criteria for the right choice does not end. We have already talked about it, check it out. Materials on choosing a processor and cameras will appear soon, so subscribe to notifications and the VKontakte group.

When choosing a monitor, many users are faced with the question: what better pls or IPS.

These two technologies have existed for quite a long time and both show themselves quite well.

If you look at various articles on the Internet, they either write that everyone must decide for themselves what is better, or they do not give an answer to the question posed at all.

Actually, these articles make no sense at all. After all, they do not help users in any way.

Therefore, we will look at in what cases it is better to choose PLS or IPS and give advice that will help you do right choice. Let's start with the theory.

What is IPS

It’s worth saying right away that this moment It is the two options under consideration that are leaders in the technology market.

And not every specialist will be able to say which technology is better and what advantages each of them has.

So, the word IPS itself stands for In-Plane-Switching (literally “in-site switching”).

This abbreviation also stands for Super Fine TFT (“super thin TFT”). TFT, in turn, stands for Thin Film Transistor.

To put it simply, TFT is a technology for displaying images on a computer, which is based on an active matrix.

Hard enough.

Nothing. Let's figure it out now!

So, in TFT technology, the molecules of liquid crystals are controlled using thin-film transistors, this means “active matrix”.

IPS is exactly the same, only the electrodes in monitors with this technology are on the same plane with liquid crystal molecules, which are parallel to the plane.

All this can be clearly seen in Figure 1. There, in fact, displays with both technologies are shown.

First there is a vertical filter, then transparent electrodes, after them liquid crystal molecules (blue sticks, they interest us most), then a horizontal filter, a color filter and the screen itself.

Rice. No. 1. TFT and IPS screens

The only difference between these technologies is that the LC molecules in TFT are not located in parallel, but in IPS they are in parallel.

Thanks to this, they can quickly change the viewing angle (specifically, here it is 178 degrees) and give best picture(at IPS).

And also due to this solution, the brightness and contrast of the image on the screen has significantly increased.

Now it is clear?

If not, write your questions in the comments. We will definitely answer them.

IPS technology was created in 1996. Among its advantages, it is worth noting the absence of the so-called “excitement,” that is, an incorrect reaction to touch.

It also has excellent color rendition. Quite a lot of companies produce monitors using this technology, including NEC, Dell, Chimei and even.

What is PLS

For a very long time, the manufacturer did not say anything at all about its brainchild, and many experts put forward various assumptions regarding the characteristics of PLS.

Actually, even now this technology is shrouded in a lot of secrets. But we will still find the truth!

PLS was released in 2010 as an alternative to the aforementioned IPS.

This abbreviation stands for Plane To Line Switching (that is, “switching between lines”).

Let us remember that IPS is In-Plane-Switching, that is, “switching between lines.” This refers to switching in a plane.

And above we said that in this technology, liquid crystal molecules quickly become flat and due to this, a better viewing angle and other characteristics are achieved.

So, in PLS everything happens exactly the same, but faster. Figure 2 shows all this clearly.

Rice. No. 2. PLS and IPS work

In this figure, at the top there is the screen itself, then the crystals, that is, the same liquid crystal molecules that were indicated by blue sticks in figure No. 1.

The electrode is shown below. In both cases, their location is shown on the left in the off state (when the crystals do not move), and on the right - when they are on.

The principle of operation is the same - when the crystals begin to work, they begin to move, while initially they are located parallel to each other.

But, as we see in Figure No. 2, these crystals quickly acquire the required form- the one that is necessary for the maximum.

Over a certain period of time, the molecules in the IPS monitor do not become perpendicular, but in the PLS they do.

That is, in both technologies everything is the same, but in PLS everything happens faster.

Hence the intermediate conclusion - PLS works faster and, in theory, this particular technology could be considered the best in our comparison.

But it is too early to draw final conclusions.

This is interesting: Samsung Company filed a lawsuit against LG several years ago. It claimed that the AH-IPS technology used by LG is a modification of PLS ​​technology. From this we can conclude that PLS is a type of IPS, and the developer himself admitted this. Actually, this was confirmed and we are a little higher.

Which is better PLS or IPS? How to choose a good screen - guide

What if I don't understand anything?

In this case, the video at the end of this article will help you. It clearly shows a cross-section of TFT and IPS monitors.

You will be able to see how it all works and understand that in PLS everything happens exactly the same, but faster than in IPS.

Now we can move on to further comparison of technologies.

Expert opinions

On some sites you can find information about an independent study of PLS ​​and IPS.

Experts compared these technologies under a microscope. It is written that in the end they did not find any differences.

Other experts write that it is still better to buy PLS, but do not really explain why.

Among all the statements of experts, there are several main points that can be observed in almost all opinions.

These points are as follows:

• Monitors with PLS matrices are the most expensive on the market. The cheapest option is TN, but such monitors are inferior in all respects to both IPS and PLS. So, most experts agree that this is very justified, because the picture is better displayed on PLS;
• Monitors with a PLS matrix are best suited for performing all kinds of design and engineering tasks. This technique will also cope perfectly with the work of professional photographers. Again, from this we can conclude that PLS does a better job of rendering colors and providing sufficient image clarity;
• According to experts, PLS monitors practically free from problems such as glare and flicker. They came to this conclusion during testing;
• Ophthalmologists say that PLS will be much better perceived by the eyes. Moreover, your eyes will find it much easier to look at PLS all day than IPS.

In general, from all this we again draw the same conclusion that we already made earlier. PLS is a little better than IPS. And this opinion is confirmed by most experts.

Which is better PLS or IPS? How to choose a good screen - guide

Which is better PLS or IPS? How to choose a good screen - guide

Our comparison

Now let’s move on to the final comparison, which will answer the question posed at the very beginning.

The same experts identify a number of characteristics by which different ones need to be compared.

It's about about indicators such as light sensitivity, response speed (meaning the transition from gray to gray), quality (pixel density without losing other characteristics) and saturation.

We will use them to evaluate the two technologies.

Table 1. IPS comparison and pls for some specifications

Other characteristics, including saturation and quality, are subjective and vary from person to person. specific person.

But from the above indicators it is clear that PLS has slightly higher characteristics.

Thus, we again confirm the conclusion that this technology performs better than IPS.

Rice. No. 3. The first comparison of monitors with IPS and PLS matrices.

There is a single “popular” criterion that allows you to accurately determine which is better – PLS or IPS.

This criterion is called “by eye”. In practice, this means that you just need to take and look at two adjacent monitors and visually determine where the picture is better.

Therefore, we will present several similar images, and everyone will be able to see for themselves where the image visually looks better.

Rice. No. 4. Second comparison of monitors with IPS and PLS matrices.

Rice. No. 5. The third comparison of monitors with IPS and PLS matrices.

Rice. No. 6. The fourth comparison of monitors with IPS and PLS matrices.

Rice. No. 7. Fifth comparison of monitors with IPS (left) and PLS (right) matrices.

It is visually clear that on all PLS samples the picture looks much better, more saturated, brighter, and so on.

We mentioned above that TN is the most inexpensive technology today and monitors using it, accordingly, also cost less than others.

After them in price come IPS, and then PLS. But, as we see, all this is not at all surprising, because the picture really looks much better.

Other characteristics in this case are also higher. Many experts advise buying with PLS matrices and Full HD resolution.

Then the image will really look just great!

It is impossible to say for sure whether this combination is the best on the market today, but it is definitely one of the best.

By the way, for comparison you can see what IPS and TN look like from an acute viewing angle.

Rice. No. 8. Comparison of monitors with IPS (left) and TN (right) matrices.

It is worth saying that Samsung created two technologies at once that are used in monitors and in / and were able to significantly outperform IPS.

It's about Super AMOLED screens, which are installed on mobile devices of this company.

Interestingly, Super AMOLED resolution is usually lower than IPS, but the picture is more saturated and bright.

But in the case of PLS ​​above, almost everything that can be, including resolution.

The general conclusion can be drawn that PLS is better than IPS.

Among other things, PLS has the following advantages:

• the ability to convey a very wide range of shades (in addition to primary colors);
• ability to support the entire sRGB range;
• lower energy consumption;
• viewing angles allow several people to see the picture comfortably at once;
• all kinds of distortions are absolutely excluded.

In general, IPS monitors are perfect for solving common household tasks, for example, watching movies and working in office programs.

But if you want to see something really rich and high quality image, buy equipment with PLS.

This is especially true when you need to work with design/design programs.

Of course, their price will be higher, but it’s worth it!

Which is better PLS or IPS? How to choose a good screen - guide

What is amoled, super amoled, LCD, TFT, Tft ips? Do not you know? Look!

Which is better PLS or IPS? How to choose a good screen - guide

4.8 (95%) 4 votes

IPS technology has already become quite integrated into modern life. Of course, there are still various competitors such as TN and plasma panels. However, this technology has great prospects. It is not without reason that many manufacturers of monitors and televisions prefer this type of matrix. Monitors with this type of display are increasingly found on the shelves of modern stores. In this regard, users have a question: IPS matrix, what is it, and what advantages does it have?

Despite the fact that the IPS matrix has become so widespread only in our time, the technology itself is already quite old. Back in 1995, Hitachi developed the first In-Plane Switching (IPS) matrix. The main goal of the development was to get rid of the shortcomings that TN+Film matrices had.

The new matrix (IPS) had larger viewing angles and significantly higher color rendering quality. However, due to certain structural features of the IPS matrix, the response time could not be significantly increased. Of course, the developers have brought this indicator to an acceptable level, however, when compared with TN matrices, the latter have an advantage.

IPS technology got its name due to the fact that the liquid crystal molecules in the matrix cells are always located in the same plane and are always parallel to the plane of the panel. This solution made it possible to significantly increase viewing angles and color rendition, which brought LCD displays to a new level.

1. Types of IPS matrices

Over the years, IPS technology has undergone a lot of improvements, which have allowed not only to achieve more high definition and image accuracy, but also improved response time and increased screen resolution. This in turn improved the image quality. To date, there are several main types of IPS matrices:

• S-IPS (Super-IPS). The S-IPS matrix was developed back in 1998. It made it possible to significantly increase image contrast and improve response time.
• AS-IPS (Advanced Super-IPS). The technology was studied in 2002. It made it possible to increase the brightness of the picture, as well as further increase the contrast. Of course, this directly affected the improvement in image quality.
• H-IPS (Horizontal-IPS). This type of IPS matrix was developed in 2007. The main goal of developing this technology was to achieve an even greater increase in contrast and optimization of white color. This made the image more natural and realistic. This type of matrix quickly found recognition among professional photo editors, as well as designers and fashion designers who processed images.
• P-IPS (Professional-IPS). The P-IPS matrix was released in 2010. This technology made it possible to increase the number of displayed colors and shades to 1.07 billion. It did this type matrix is ​​one of the best in the world. Besides, P-IPS matrices have improved response time. Of course, you have to pay for such quality. It is worth noting that this type of matrix is ​​professional and also one of the most expensive.
• E-IPS (Enhanced-IPS). Matrix 2009. New technologies have improved response times as well as transparency. This, in turn, made it possible to use cheaper and less powerful backlight lamps, which reduced energy consumption, turning such screens into more energy-efficient devices. However, such a solution is not in the best possible way affected the image quality.
• S-IPS II. One of the latest developments. This type of matrix is ​​a separate branch of IPS technology.
• The latest and newest type of AH-IPS matrix. This technology was developed in 2011 and is considered the most advanced. Such displays have the most natural color reproduction and the best response among IPS matrices.

Taking into account the variety of IPS technologies, a logical question arises, which IPS matrix is ​​better? Of course, the rule applies than newer development, the higher quality it has. However, this rule does not always apply. It all depends on what materials the manufacturer uses.

So, not every TFT AH-IPS matrix has the same high image quality. Accordingly, such displays may have different prices. The higher quality materials and components used to create the monitor (or TV), the higher quality image you can get, and the more expensive the device will cost.

1.1. Backlight type IPS matrices

One of the main elements of every LCD matrix is ​​the backlight. Today there are two types of backlighting for LCD displays:

• Fluorescent lamps;
• LED (light emitting diode backlight).

Everything here is extremely simple. Fluorescent lighting is considered obsolete. Today, such displays are becoming increasingly rare. Since 2010 fluorescent lamps successfully replaced by LED backlighting. LED monitors and televisions are the same LCD matrices. The only difference is the backlight, which is in the form of LEDs.

It is worth noting that this is a very simple, but effective solution made it possible to eliminate a number of shortcomings of LCD matrices and significantly improve image quality (color rendition, brightness, contrast, and clarity). IPS LED matrices are the most promising displays that are widely used among users.

If we talk about choice, then, undoubtedly, it is worth giving preference to IPS LCD matrices with LED backlight. This is explained by the fact that such displays are capable of displaying the most natural colors, while the response time is practically not inferior to TN+Film matrices. This difference cannot be seen with the naked eye, but the image quality of the IPS display is pleasantly surprising.

1.2. Advantages of IPS matrix

Modern IPS matrices have very high performance. It is worth noting that this particular type of display is a direct competitor to plasma panels, which are famous for their excellent color rendition, image clarity and resolution. At the same time, IPS displays have a lower cost, which makes them available to more users.

Another advantage of the IPS matrix is ​​its durability. Compared to plasma, the IPS LCD display is designed for more long term operation. Moreover, the difference is quite significant.

The concept of “pixel burnout” is very common. This is an effect that appears when one picture is displayed for a long time. For example, a desktop screensaver on a computer. It is worth noting that both plasma panels and LCD displays have this disadvantage. However, if we talk about modern IPS matrices, then this drawback is completely eliminated. Moreover, such displays are increasingly being used to make PC monitors.

In general, IPS LCD matrices have a mass undeniable advantages, including affordable prices and excellent image quality. Moreover, modern technologies make it possible to make LCD displays of almost any size. It is for this reason reason LCD matrices are in greatest demand among users.

2. IPS and non-IPS matrix on the tablet: Video

TFT and IPS matrices: features, advantages and disadvantages

IN modern world We regularly come across the displays of phones, tablets, PC monitors and TVs. Technologies for the production of liquid crystal matrices do not stand still, due to which many people have a question: what is better to choose TFT or IPS?

In order to fully answer this question, it is necessary to carefully understand the differences between both matrices, highlight their features, advantages and disadvantages. Knowing all these subtleties, you can easily choose a device whose display will fully meet your requirements. Our article will help you with this.

TFT matrices

Thin Film Transistor (TFT) is a liquid crystal display manufacturing system based on an active matrix of thin film transistors. When voltage is applied to such a matrix, the crystals turn towards each other, which leads to the formation of a black color. Turning off the electricity gives the opposite result - crystals form White color. Changing the supplied voltage allows you to form any color on each individual pixel.

The main advantage of TFT displays is the relatively low price production, in comparison with modern analogues. In addition, such matrices have excellent brightness and response time. Thanks to this, distortion when viewing dynamic scenes is invisible. Displays made using TFT technology are most often used in budget TVs and monitors.

Disadvantages of TFT displays:

• • low color rendering. The technology has a limit of 6 bits per channel;
  • the spiral arrangement of crystals negatively affects the contrast of the image;
  • image quality decreases noticeably when the viewing angle changes;
  • high probability of “dead” pixels;
  • relatively low power consumption.

The disadvantages of TFT matrices are most noticeable when working with black color. It can be distorted to gray, or, conversely, be too contrasty.

IPS matrices

The IPS matrix is ​​an improved continuation of displays developed using TFT technology. The main difference between these matrices is that in TFT the liquid crystals are arranged in a spiral, while in IPS the crystals lie in the same plane parallel to each other. In addition, in the absence of electricity they do not rotate, which has a positive effect on the display of black colors.

Advantages of IPS matrices:

• viewing angles at which image quality does not decrease have been increased to 178 degrees;
• improved color rendering. The amount of data transmitted to each channel has been increased to 8 bits;
• significantly improved contrast;
• reduced energy consumption;
• low probability of “broken” or burnt-out pixels.

The image on the IPS matrix looks more vibrant and rich, but this does not mean that this technology is without its shortcomings. Compared to its predecessor, IPS has significantly reduced image brightness. Also, due to changes in the control electrodes, such an indicator as the response time of the matrix suffered. The last but not least significant drawback is the relatively high price of devices that use IPS displays. As a rule, they are 10-20% more expensive than similar ones with a TFT matrix.

What to choose: TFT or IPS?

It is worth understanding that TFT and IPS matrices, despite significant differences in image quality, are very similar technologies. They are both created on the basis of active matrices and use liquid crystals of the same structure. Many modern manufacturers give their preference IPS matrices. Largely due to the fact that they can provide more worthy competition to plasma matrices and have significant prospects in the future. However, TFT matrices are also evolving. Nowadays you can find TFT-TN and TFT-HD displays on the market. They are practically not inferior in image quality to IPS matrices, but at the same time they have a more affordable price. But at the moment there are not many devices with such monitors.

If image quality is important to you and you are willing to pay a little extra, then a device with IPS display is the optimal choice.