Comprehensive Analysis of Display Technologies:

From CRT to MicroLED

Md Towhidur Rahaman Nahid Course Instructor: Dr. Md. Iqbal Bahar Chowdhury

Student ID: 0212230105 Professor

Section: A Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Course Title: Electrical Properties of Materials United International University
Course Code: EEE3107 Email: iqbal@eee.uiu.ac.bd
Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering
United International University
Email: mnahid2230105@bseee.uiu.ac.bd

Abstract—This paper offers a holistic analysis of display The transition from CRT to flat-panel displays marked a
technologies, tracing their evolution from the early cathode major technological leap, driven by consumer demands for
ray tubes (CRT) to cutting-edge innovations like MicroLED. It better image quality, reduced size, and energy efficiency.
provides a detailed examination of various display technologies,
including In-Plane Switching (IPS), Active Matrix Organic Light Breakthroughs in display materials and engineering not only
Emitting Diode (AMOLED), and other key technologies such revolutionised consumer electronics but also impacted pro-
as Twisted Nematic (TN), Vertical Alignment (VA), Quantum fessional tools, industrial systems, and emerging fields like
Dot (QD), and MicroLED displays. The analysis emphasises the wearables, augmented reality, and foldable devices. Display
mechanisms behind each technology, their material compositions, innovation continues to redefine possibilities, bridging the gap
performance metrics, and the ongoing advancements in energy
efficiency and resolution. Additionally, the paper discusses cost- between visual fidelity and energy sustainability while pushing
reduction strategies that aim to make these technologies more the boundaries of human interaction with technology.
accessible and scalable for mass adoption.
The study also considers the sustainability of these display
technologies in light of increasing environmental concerns, ex-
ploring the lifecycle impact of materials used and the future
of eco-friendly alternatives. The discussion incorporates global II. H ISTORICAL OVERVIEW
trends in display development as well as local manufacturing
considerations, particularly in the context of Bangladesh’s grow-
ing electronics industry. By bridging the gap between advanced
research and practical application, this paper aims to contribute The history of display technologies reflects a journey of
valuable insights for both the academic and industrial sectors, innovation, evolving from mechanical systems to advanced
offering a comprehensive look at the future potential of display digital screens. Early displays relied on mechanical methods,
technologies in everyday life.
such as flip boards, for static visual communication. The intro-
Index Terms—Display Technologies, IPS, AMOLED, Mi-
croLED, LCD, Sustainability, Energy Efficiency, Material Com- duction of Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) technology in the 1920s
position revolutionised electronic displays, enabling the development
of televisions and early computer monitors.
In the late 20th century, advancements in semiconductors
I. I NTRODUCTION led to flat-panel technologies, such as Liquid Crystal Displays
Display technologies have played a transformative role in (LCDs) and Plasma Display Panels (PDPs), which offered
shaping how humans interact with electronics, evolving from thinner, lighter, and more energy-efficient alternatives to CRTs.
the bulky and limited cathode ray tubes (CRT) to the sleek, The 21st century saw rapid advancements in Organic Light
high-performance panels found in modern devices. This paper Emitting Diodes (OLEDs) and Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs),
explores the technological advancements that have driven this bringing higher contrast, vibrant colours, and flexible designs.
evolution, with a focus on pivotal innovations such as liquid More recently, innovations like Quantum Dot (QD) displays
crystal technology, organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), and and MicroLEDs have pushed the boundaries further, empha-
quantum dot (QD) displays. The analysis encompasses key sising ultra-high resolution and energy efficiency.
technologies like twisted nematic (TN), in-plane switching Throughout this evolution, the focus has shifted from simple
(IPS), vertical alignment (VA), AMOLED, and the emerging information display to immersive, high-definition experiences,
MicroLED, examining their unique characteristics and appli- reshaping industries like entertainment, computing, and mobile
cations. communication.
A. Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) C. Vertical Alignment (VA)
The Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) was a pivotal display tech- Vertical Alignment (VA) panels, which use liquid crystals
nology that worked by firing electron beams onto a phos- aligned vertically when in the off-state, offer improved contrast
phorescent screen to produce images. While it offered good ratios by allowing light to pass through more efficiently.
image quality and color, its bulky design and high energy This results in deeper blacks and higher contrast, making
consumption made it less suitable for the modern, compact them suitable for environments with low ambient light. The
electronics that began to dominate the market. As demand technology relies on a combination of liquid crystal molecules
grew for thinner, lighter, and more energy-efficient displays, and specific polarizers to control light passage. However,
technologies such as Liquid Crystal Displays (LCD) and their slower response times, due to the more complex liquid
Plasma Displays (PDP) gradually replaced CRTs. Despite its crystal alignment process, make them less suited for fast-
eventual obsolescence, the CRT was a key milestone in the moving content. VA panels are primarily used in mid-range
development of display technologies. televisions and monitors, where the emphasis is on strong
contrast performance at a more affordable price.

Fig. 1: CRT Display Structure

B. Twisted Nematic (TN) Fig. 3: VA Display Structure

The Twisted Nematic (TN) panel, introduced in the 1970s,
marked a significant advancement over CRT technology by
offering thinner profiles and lower energy consumption. TN
displays use liquid crystals that twist to control light passage, III. O PERATIONAL M ECHANISMS
resulting in faster response times, making them ideal for
early computer monitors and budget-friendly TVs. However, Modern displays operate by controlling light to produce im-
TN panels were limited by their narrow viewing angles and ages. LCDs use liquid crystals with a backlight, while OLEDs
poor colour reproduction, which restricted their appeal in emit light per pixel through organic compounds. Technologies
high-end applications. As display technology progressed, TN like quantum dots enhance colour, and microLEDs provide
panels became less favoured for premium devices, though they superior brightness and efficiency with individual LED pixels.
remained popular in budget and entry-level markets due to
their cost-effectiveness. A. IPS Technology
IPS (In-Plane Switching) panels, a significant advancement
in LCD technology, utilize liquid crystals aligned parallel
to the screen surface to enhance light control and image
quality. This design addresses the limitations of TN panels
by offering superior viewing angles and consistent colour
accuracy, even when viewed off-axis. IPS panels also fea-
ture advanced backlighting, with quantum dot enhancements
in some models providing vibrant and true-to-life images.
Structural innovations, such as dual-layer polarizers, improve
contrast ratios and reduce light leakage, making them ideal for
professional applications like graphic design and video editing.
While IPS panels typically consume more power and have
slower response times than TN panels, their exceptional image
Fig. 2: TN Display Structure quality and reliability have established them as a popular
choice in high-end monitors, televisions, and mobile devices.
 displays to compact wearables. While production complex-
ity and costs remain challenges, ongoing advancements are
making MicroLEDs a promising technology for future high-
performance and versatile displays.

Fig. 4: IPS Panel

B. AMOLED Technology Fig. 6: MicroLED Panel

AMOLED (Active Matrix Organic Light Emitting Diode)
displays leverage organic compounds that emit light directly
when an electric current passes through them. Each pixel IV. M ATERIAL C OMPOSITION ACROSS D ISPLAY T YPES
is independently controlled, allowing for precise brightness
and color adjustments. This design provides true blacks by A. LCD-Based Technologies(IPS,TN,VA)
switching off individual pixels, resulting in high contrast ratios
and vibrant colours with superior dynamic range. The thin, LCDs rely on the unique properties of liquid crystals to
flexible substrates used in AMOLED displays also enable their modulate light. The three main types—nematic, ferroelectric,
application in foldable and curved devices, offering versatility and cholesteric—each offer distinct advantages. Nematic liq-
in modern device design. Despite their advantages, AMOLED uid crystals are commonly used in Twisted Nematic (TN)
displays face challenges such as higher manufacturing costs panels due to their simple alignment mechanisms and cost-
and potential burn-in issues, though advancements in materials effectiveness. Ferroelectric variants are explored in specialized
and production techniques continue to improve their durability applications for faster response times, while cholesteric types
and accessibility. These characteristics make AMOLED a pop- enable bistable displays.
ular choice for high-end smartphones, wearables, and premium The substrates play a vital role in display performance.
televisions. High-grade glass substrates ensure durability and clarity but
are often paired with polycarbonate alternatives in cost-
sensitive or flexible applications. Advanced coating techniques
further improve alignment precision and reduce surface de-
fects.
Backlighting innovations, such as white LED arrays, pro-
vide consistent illumination for LCDs. Quantum dot tech-
nology enhances this by converting blue light to specific
wavelengths, resulting in vibrant colors and improved energy
efficiency. Additionally, edge-lit and full-array backlighting
configurations cater to different market needs, balancing cost
Fig. 5: Amoled Panel and image uniformity.
By integrating these materials and technologies, IPS, TN,
and VA panels address a diverse range of applications, from
C. MicroLED Technology gaming monitors requiring fast response times to professional
MicroLED displays, the latest innovation in display tech- displays prioritizing color accuracy and wide viewing angles.
nology, utilize microscopic light-emitting diodes as individual The continued evolution of LCD-based technologies under-
pixels, each emitting its own light and colour. This elimi- scores their adaptability and relevance in modern display
nates the need for traditional backlighting or colour filters, systems.
significantly enhancing energy efficiency. Inorganic materials
used in MicroLEDs provide exceptional longevity, resisting
issues like burn-in and degradation that affect other display
types. Additionally, their scalability allows them to be adapted
for a wide range of applications, from ultra-large commercial
B. OLED and AMOLED Displays V. C OMPARITIVE P ERFORMANCE M ETRICS
Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED) and Active Matrix
A. Color Reproduction
OLED (AMOLED) technologies rely on the unique properties
of organic materials to produce light. Organic emitters are IPS (In-Plane Switching) panels are renowned for their
central to their function, with small-molecule materials offer- exceptional color accuracy and wide viewing angles, making
ing high precision in deposition, enabling sharp pixel layouts them a preferred choice for professional applications such as
ideal for high-resolution displays. In contrast, polymer-based photo editing, graphic design, and medical imaging. The con-
materials provide flexibility, paving the way for foldable and sistency in color fidelity across different angles is particularly
rollable displays. advantageous for collaborative environments.
The encapsulation layers in OLED displays are critical for AMOLED (Active Matrix Organic Light Emitting
longevity, as organic materials are sensitive to oxygen and Diode) displays offer vibrant and saturated colors, making
moisture. Advanced techniques, such as Atomic Layer Depo- them ideal for multimedia applications, including smartphones
sition (ALD) and thin-film barriers, provide robust protection, and high-end televisions. However, AMOLED displays may
ensuring the durability of these displays, even in challenging suffer from color shifts at extreme angles.
environmental conditions. MicroLED technology delivers precise color reproduction
The Thin-Film Transistor (TFT) backplane plays a pivotal with higher brightness and improved efficiency. With inorganic
role in AMOLED displays, controlling each pixel individually emitters, MicroLED achieves superior color vibrancy without
for superior contrast and color accuracy. Recent innovations, the risk of burn-in, offering a long-lasting solution for both
such as Indium Gallium Zinc Oxide (IGZO) technology, offer professional-grade monitors and consumer devices.
higher electron mobility compared to conventional amorphous
B. Energy Efficiency
silicon, enabling faster refresh rates, lower power consump-
tion, and improved performance in high-resolution panels. TN (Twisted Nematic) and IPS (In-Plane Switching)
This combination of materials and technologies allows panels typically have consistent power consumption due to
OLED and AMOLED displays to deliver unparalleled image their reliance on backlight technology. However, their energy
quality, wide viewing angles, and flexibility, making them usage can increase with higher brightness settings, making
ideal for applications ranging from smartphones and TVs to them less efficient compared to newer display types, especially
advanced wearables and automotive displays. in dark environments.
AMOLED (Active Matrix Organic Light Emitting
C. MicroLED Displays Diode) displays are more energy-efficient when displaying
MicroLED displays represent a significant leap in display darker images or using dark mode since each pixel emits
technology, utilizing inorganic emitters such as Gallium Ni- its own light and can turn off completely, reducing power
tride (GaN) for exceptional brightness, energy efficiency, and usage. However, they tend to consume more power at higher
durability. These emitters are inherently stable and resistant to brightness levels, especially when displaying bright content.
degradation, making them suitable for applications requiring MicroLED displays offer significant energy savings due to
long lifespans and high-performance visuals. their self-emissive nature, where each pixel is individually
The choice of substrates, including sapphire and silicon, lit. Unlike AMOLED, they can maintain high brightness
plays a critical role in ensuring thermal stability and structural levels without a considerable increase in power consumption,
integrity. Sapphire substrates are favored for their optical providing a more energy-efficient solution overall. This makes
clarity and heat resistance, while silicon offers scalability and MicroLED particularly advantageous for devices requiring
cost advantages in mass production. long battery life and superior energy performance.
However, one of the most significant challenges in Mi-
croLED technology lies in the manufacturing process, which C. Durability and longebity
requires the precise placement of millions of microscopic TN (Twisted Nematic) and IPS (In-Plane Switching)
LEDs onto a display substrate. Advanced techniques such as displays are generally resistant to burn-in due to their reliance
pick-and-place assembly, transfer printing, and laser-induced on backlighting, but they can degrade over time due to
forward transfer are employed to achieve the required accuracy backlight wear. This results in diminished brightness and color
and alignment. These processes demand high precision and accuracy as the backlight ages, though they typically offer
efficiency, making the scalability of MicroLED production a longer lifespans compared to some other display types.
primary focus for researchers and manufacturers. AMOLED (Active Matrix Organic Light Emitting
Despite these challenges, MicroLED displays hold promise Diode) displays are susceptible to burn-in, a phenomenon
for next-generation applications, ranging from ultra-large TVs where static images, such as logos or UI elements, leave
and digital signage to compact wearables and augmented permanent marks on the screen. This occurs due to the organic
reality devices. Their superior brightness, contrast, and energy materials used in AMOLED technology, which degrade faster
efficiency position them as a transformative technology in the with prolonged use. While manufacturers have made strides
display industry. in mitigating burn-in effects, it remains a concern for devices
that display static content for long periods.
 MicroLED displays, on the other hand, offer superior Improving Efficiency: Phosphorescent materials and quan-
durability. Since MicroLEDs use inorganic materials, they are tum dots reduce energy consumption and manufacturing costs
resistant to burn-in and can endure extended use without degra- by improving light emission and color accuracy.
dation. This results in longer lifespans compared to AMOLED Increasing Flexibility: Flexible substrates are integral to
displays, with the potential for more robust performance over reducing costs in AMOLED display production, enabling the
time. creation of bendable or foldable screens.
Streamlining Manufacturing: Hybrid manufacturing
VI. A LTERNATIVE M ATERIALS FOR C OST R EDUCTION IN methods used in MicroLED and the integration of low-cost
D ISPLAY T ECHNOLOGIES polarizers are reducing the overall complexity and expense of
production.
To reduce manufacturing costs for display technologies,
Global Perspectives and Results
several alternative materials are being explored for their ability
to enhance performance while keeping production expenses Across the globe, these alternative materials are being
low. These materials are being investigated across all types of adopted in various display technologies to reduce costs. In
displays, such as IPS, AMOLED, and MicroLED, to lower developed countries like Japan, South Korea, and the United
the cost of production and improve efficiency. Below are the States, large-scale manufacturing has led to substantial re-
main categories of materials that contribute to cost reductions: ductions in production costs for AMOLED and MicroLED
Graphene:Used primarily in IPS displays for enhancing displays, driven by the use of efficient manufacturing methods
conductivity, reducing material costs, and improving display and innovative material development. For instance, the use of
performance. graphene and low-cost polarizers in IPS displays has made
Low-Cost Polarizers:For IPS displays, affordable polariz- these displays more affordable for both consumers and man-
ers are used to reduce manufacturing costs without sacrificing ufacturers. Similarly, quantum dots have led to an increase
image quality. in color accuracy without significantly increasing production
Phosphorescent materials:Common in AMOLED dis- costs, making displays more competitive in the global market.
plays, these materials increase light emission efficiency and The implementation of flexible substrates in AMOLED
reduce the cost of power consumption and raw materials. screens has been particularly impactful in consumer electron-
Transparent Conductive Films(TCFS):These are used in ics, allowing for lower production costs of foldable devices and
AMOLED displays to reduce costs while enhancing trans- wearables. Moreover, the shift toward hybrid manufacturing
parency and conductivity, leading to more affordable display methods in MicroLED technology has drastically reduced the
technology. complexity and cost of placing individual LEDs, contributing
Quantum Dots:As an alternative to traditional phosphor to more affordable MicroLED products.
materials, quantum dots can be used in both AMOLED and View of Bangladesh
IPS displays to enhance color accuracy and brightness while
minimizing material costs. In Bangladesh, the adoption of these alternative materials
Flexible Substrates:Used in AMOLED displays to allow for cost reduction in display technologies is still in its early
flexible and foldable display designs, enabling mass produc- stages, largely due to constraints in local manufacturing and a
tion at a lower cost. lack of access to advanced materials. However, research and
Hybrid Manufacturing:Applied to MicroLED displays, collaborations with international partners are slowly beginning
these methods streamline the placement of LEDs, reducing to foster an understanding of how these cost-reducing materials
the complexity and cost of production. could benefit the local display technology market. Given
Using standard materials like liquid crystals or electron Bangladesh’s growing interest in electronics manufacturing,
beams is foundational, but alternative materials offer the particularly in the smartphone and television sectors, the
following benefits: potential for adopting graphene, flexible substrates, and
quantum dots is significant.
• Lower production costs through improved efficiency and
scalability. To ensure the successful implementation of these materials
• Enhanced display performance, such as better color ac- in Bangladesh’s display technology industry, there needs to
curacy, energy efficiency, and durability. be an investment in both local research and development
• Compatibility with modern display trends like flexibility and the creation of partnerships with global technology firms.
and miniaturization. Bangladesh can also benefit from focusing on hybrid man-
ufacturing methods in MicroLEDs to reduce manufacturing
Categorization of Alternative Materials
complexities and make the technology more accessible to the
Cost-Reducing Materials by Functionality: local market. Furthermore, government policies supporting the
Enhancing Conductivity: Graphene and transparent con- development of sustainable and cost-effective materials can
ductive films (TCFs) help in reducing material costs for play a key role in advancing the country’s capabilities in
electrical conductivity while enhancing display performance. display technologies.
 VII. R EGIONAL AND E CONOMIC I MPLICATIONS practices, such as developing local recycling programs and
investing in research on greener materials like graphene and
Global Trends: Developed countries prioritize alternative flexible substrates.
materials to stay competitive in the electronics market. These
materials allow for innovation, higher efficiency, and cost IX. F UTURE T RENDS AND A PPLICATIONS
reductions that standard materials cannot provide.
Display technologies are rapidly evolving, with ground-
Local Adoption: For countries like Bangladesh, adopting
breaking advancements shaping their future:
alternative materials could position them as competitive play-
Foldable and Rollable Displays: AMOLED innovations
ers in the global market. Standard materials often require
are paving the way for foldable and rollable screens, revolu-
legacy manufacturing processes that might not align with
tionizing mobile devices, wearables, and flexible electronics.
newer, more cost-effective methods.
MicroLED in Emerging Fields: MicroLED is gaining trac-
By focusing on alternative materials, manufacturers can
tion in augmented reality (AR) devices, automotive displays,
address the shortcomings of traditional approaches while
and large-format screens, thanks to its unparalleled brightness
aligning with emerging market demands and technological
and energy efficiency.
advancements.
Quantum Dot Integration: Quantum dots are being inte-
VIII. S USTAINABILITY AND E NVIRONMENTAL I MPACT grated across display technologies, including LCDs, OLEDs,
and MicroLEDs, to enhance colour accuracy, brightness, and
Sustainability in display technologies is becoming a key energy efficiency.
focus as the environmental impact of manufacturing and dis- Energy-Saving Developments: Advances in energy-
posal processes gains global attention. Efforts are being made efficient backlights for LCDs and sustainable material inno-
to minimize toxic waste, improve recyclability, and develop vations are contributing to eco-friendly display solutions.
greener alternatives across all display types: Globally, these trends are driven by demand for immersive
Recycling Initiatives: Recycling programs for LCD and experiences and sustainability, with regions like East Asia
OLED panels are being implemented globally to reduce elec- leading innovations. In Bangladesh, applications remain lim-
tronic waste. Efforts include recovering rare earth elements, ited but are gradually expanding with growing technological
such as indium and gallium, and reusing glass substrates, adoption.
which significantly reduces the energy required for production.
These programs are crucial in tackling the growing volume of X. C ONCLUSION
discarded electronic displays. The display technology industry is currently dominated by
Toxic Waste Reduction: In AMOLED production, the IPS and AMOLED, with MicroLED emerging as a potential
use of organic materials raises concerns about the release game-changer. The future of display manufacturing will be
of harmful byproducts during manufacturing and disposal. significantly influenced by regional needs and sustainability
To address this, industries are focusing on safer production efforts, especially in developing nations such as Bangladesh.
methods, such as incorporating non-toxic organic materials These factors will play a crucial role in shaping the evolution
and optimizing manufacturing processes to reduce emissions. of display technologies.
MicroLED Sustainability: MicroLED technology is con-
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View from Bangladesh
In Bangladesh, sustainability in display technologies is still
an emerging concept. The lack of advanced recycling facilities
and the dependence on imported displays create challenges
for sustainable practices. However, awareness is growing,
and there is potential for adopting environmentally friendly