Electroluminescence catches the public eye: Rugged, readable, and compact, electroluminescent technology is breaking the price barrier: Designers are now using it in middle-range products

The development of durable, high-visibility, thin-film electroluminescent displays (EL) for microcomputers is outlined. It is noted that these displays are being used increasingly as their price is coming down. The ruggedness of EL displays, their advantages and disadvantages, and their size are discussed. The reasons for the lack of full color and gray shades are examined. Interfacing an EL display is discussed, as is the problem of defects.