CMO Sets Sights on 42-Inch, Larger LCDs, LED Backlights

摘要

Confident of the performance of LCDs in the TV market, Chi Mei Optoelectronics Corp. (CMO) is forging ahead with plans for expanded panel sizes and the latest in backlight technologies. 2004 was a busy year, during which the company completed development of LCD TV panels in 15-, 20-, 23-, 27-, 30-, 32- and 37-inch formats. Chi Mei Opto also has completed development of 42-inch and 47-inch LCD TV panels, and intends to put these products into mass production in 2005. Chen-Lung Kuo, Associate Vice President, says LCD TVs of about 30 inches were in the spotlight in 2004. In 2005, the emphasis will shift to LCD TVs between 30 and 40 inches. The challenge is that plasma display panel TVs (PDP TVs) and projection sets dominate sets larger than 40 inches. Especially in 40- to 50-inch sets, PDP TVs lead. Kuo predicts that from 2006 to 2007, costs for LCD TVs will drop, helping to solidify the market position for these products. The key to bringing the price to mass-market levels, Kuo says, is to expand production capacities.