Samsung Produces an Integrated Display Driver with Touch-Sensor Capabilities

The IC produced by Samsung combines the display driver and reading functions specific to the touch-sensor-embedded display panels. Touch screen applications generally create intuitive user interfaces. As a result, the technology spreads quickly to diverse sectors of consumer-end electronics such as PDAs, satellite navigation devices and generally all kinds of informational booths based on touch-screen interfaces.

However, there are several aspects that have to be taken into account when integrating touch-screen functions into today's LCD screens. Because the touch-screen capabilities require additional space and power in order to function properly, the result enlarges the LCD and - in some cases - it can even reduce the screen capabilities.

Samsung's new DDI device produces an AMLCD that is touch-sensitive without having to coat the LCD with the supplementary touch-sensitive layer. The touch-sensitive surface is developed by using sensors integrated into the LCD's pixels. The result is staggering both when it comes to picture quality but also when you take into account its small size.

"Designers can get an ultra-thin touch screen by combining our new DDI with an LCD that has embedded touch sensors. This method will accelerate the process of developing lighter and slimmer mobile products that feature a touch screen." says Dr. Myunghee Lee, vice president of the Advanced DDI Design Team at System LSI Division of Samsung Electronics.

Samsung's new DDI results in a more cost-effective approach when regarding the market of touch-sensitive devices. And if you combine that with the fact that the surface can interface directly to the driver, you'll understand that this product will change the way touch-screens perform. Nice going, Samsung!