SOG

System On Glass (SOG) is a leading-edge technology enabling the integration of various functions into low-temperature poly-silicon (LTPS) TFT LCD panels. It has the potential of greatly improving the capabilities and functionality of mobile equipment. This section introduces to you to the structure, characteristics, and range of applications of SOG technology.

SOG technology

Development history of SOG

LCD panels had been required to offer advanced features including improved response speed and picture quality and reduced power consumption. In response to these demands, TFT LCD panels have been developed to provide faster response time and higher contrast graphic displays compared to conventional TN LCD and STN LCD panels. The TFT LCD panel is designed to achieve faster response time and higher contrast through the switching between the transistor circuits formed on the glass substrate. (For the TFT LCD panel, refer to "LTPS - high-speed switch TFT”.)

In addition, in order to allow the TFT LCD panel to also ensure lower power consumption, Toshiba Mobile Display Co., Ltd. (TMD) developed the LTPS TFT technology to allow for the successful application as an electronic circuit at faster electron moving speeds when compared to amorphous (non-crystal) silicon. Subsequently, TMD succeeded in developing the high value-added display panel SOG technology with electronic circuits directly integrated onto the glass substrate. (For the LTPS technology, refer to "Low Temperature p-Si (LTPS)”.)

Structure and characteristics of SOG

SOG technology has been refined by the wiring integration involving various circuits with finer processing and more sophisticated TFT switches, and by the integration of such functionality as touch panel, scanner, and other additional functions. SOG technology enables a considerable reduction in the number of component parts by forming the normally externally-installed IC chips and other functions directly onto the glass, and also decreases the points of connection with external circuits, thereby enabling improved vibration- and impact-resistant displays.

Based on the SOG technology, TMD has realized a display panel with low-profile and extended battery life features, which incorporates two input functions -- "finger-touch input" and "optic pen input" -- by forming the optical sensors, signal processing circuits and other components directly on the glass substrate and thereby eliminating the need for mounting any "touch panel" as an additional component part such as required in conventional display panels.