One of the clear trends in LCD-TV is the desire to improve motion performance in new sets. For example, Sharp, Sony, and Victor Company of Japan (JVC) are all pushing LCD TVs that feature 120Hz driver technology, which means a TV image is refreshed every 8.3ms compared to every 16.7ms in 60Hz sets. This is helping to reduce the inherent problem of LCD-TV motion blur. So what’s coming to market?

Steve Sechrist
Senior Analyst and Editor
Projection Monthly

In August, Sharp Corp. (Osaka, Japan; www.sharp-world.com) said it would introduce the new Aquos G Series LCD TV’s designed with 120Hz technology. Prior to the G series, the company showed two new sets, a 65- and 52-inch (LV-65TH1 & LV-52TH1) TVs, both featuring 120Hz technology. The new G models range in size from 26- to 52-inches, feature a slim design (8.1 cm) and are lightweight, for a wide range of wall-mounted applications.

The 120Hz refresh is not lost on Sony, as nearly 90% of their LCD TVs, with panels manufactured by the joint venture (S-LCD) with Samsung, now feature Sony’s Motionflow technology with a 120Hz refresh rate.

Finally, JVC started marketing 120Hz 32- and 37-inch LCD TVs in the second half of February and added 47- 42- and 37-inch models with 120Hz technology in June. About 50% of JVC’s LCD TVs use 120Hz technology.

Not to be outdone, IPS Alpha Technology showed LCD panels that feature a 180Hz refresh rate during Fintech Japan in April. However, the company has not announced the volume production time for the technology.

Our take on the raging flat-panel technology wars is that LCD makers will continue to push the envelope in display performance, using any means at their disposal. Along with enhanced refresh rates to cut down on motion blur, LED backlights are being used to improve color performance, and frame insertion electronics help reduce other artifacts like motion judder. LCD technology is reaching a point of display parity with rival PDP emissive technology. That is, until the next round of plasma improvements. The picture keeps getting better and better.

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