Sony has developed a new LCD panel technology called Hybrid FPA that is said to enable a significantly faster response time of less than 3 ms. FPA is also said to improve 3D picture quality and high frame rate video reproduction.

Sony Hybrid FPA
Sony previously developed the FPA (presented at SID 2010 in May, 2010) panel technology based on the VA LCD panel technology. FPA is short for field-induced photo-reactive alignment and the new FPA variant should improve picture quality, according to Sony.

The improvements range from faster response time of 3 ms to higher contrast ratios. Most VA based panels such as Samsung’s PVA and AUO’s VA variant have a response time of 6 ms or 8 ms. Because of faster response time Sony also believes that FPA can improve 3D picture quality and high frame rate video reproduction.


FPA technology has faster response time and higher contrast according to Sony

The picture above illustrates how the liquid crystals are aligned inside the many small pixels. Sony says that;
- “One method for improving liquid crystal response time is to generate pre-tilt of the liquid crystal molecules. FPA technique uses the alignment layer developed by Sony and maintains pre-tilt of liquid crystal molecules by irradiating UV while applying voltage in manufacturing process”.

Additionally, this technology will achieve production efficiencies by reducing the manufacturing process and time.

Sony is jointly developing alignment layer materials with JSR Corporation for early commercialization of this technology. Sony has provided no concrete plans to release products based on the FPA panel technology.

Today Sony is cooperating with Samsung and Sharp, respectively, in manufacturing of LCD-TV panels.