14 DAY TRIAL // Multi-touch has finally begun to proliferate, but it can be said that displays with such functionality built-in are still relatively few in number. In fact, specialized monitors like AOC's upcoming e2239Fwt aren't exactly widespread, nor are they especially affordable. Albatron, on the other hand, seeks to make this technology available to as many end-users as possible, which is why it came up with a way to enable it on any existing LCD, provided its size is suitable.
Albatron has been working on a so-called multi-touch module that measures 21.5 inches and is compatible with any widescreen display of similar width. Basically, this panel is attached to the screen and adds just 1W to the overall power consumption. Also, the mounting procedure is virtually painless, since it requires no tools and can be completed in as short a time as under one minute.
“Windows 7 supports touch technology perfectly; however, most users cannot enjoy touch technology unless they buy the new PC or monitors that are 'touch ready.' In order to make more users enjoy the benefit of touch technology, Albatron, the optical touch monitor manufacturer designed the 'External multi-touch module – EM215.' By hanging EM215 on existed LCD monitor, you can upgrade your LCD monitor to touch monitor easily,” the official press release states.
The module employs an optical touch structure with a touch resolution of 32767 x 32767 and is covered in a 1.9mm +0.1/ -0.2mm-thick tempered glass layer with scratch resistance. The interface used is a USB HID multi-touch digitizer. Furthermore, the sensor has a refresh rate of 120 frames/sec and supports both stylus and finger input. Finally, the EM215 works with any 16:9 and 4:3 monitor, as long as the display area is smaller than 478 mm x 269 mm.
It is still unclear when this product will actually make it to the market, but the first demonstration should be made as early as Computex, at the start of June.