A flat-panel TV display system in monochrome and color

We have developed two compact flat TV sets and a full-color prototype model, using thin matrix dc gas-discharge panels of novel structure. The display panel is ¼ in thick, has a 7-in diagonal picture size, and contains 60 000 elements. The monochrome version has a peak luminance of 25 fL, a contrast ratio of 40:1, and 32 digitized gray levels, while the full-color set has a luminance of 5 fL, a 20:1 contrast ratio, and 48 levels. Luminance control is performed by varying the magnitude as well as the duration of the display current. All signals are digitized and all circuits consist of TTL IC´s, with the exception of the drive transistors. We have constructed two types of experimental monochrome model sets: one for desk-top use packaged in a 300 × 350 × 80 mm housing which includes tuner, A/D converter, and all TV circuits with the exception of a power supply, the other for wall hanging. A full-color flat display panel has also been developed using a similar panel structure and circuitry.