Apparatus and method for applying pre-pulses to row selection electrodes in a liquid crystal device to prevent patterning dependence of switching behaviour

摘要

A ferroelectric liquid crystal display includes data electrodes connected to a data signal generator and strobe electrodes connected to a strobe signal generator. The strobe signal generator supplies strobe signals in sequence to the strobe electrodes within a plurality of consecutive time slots and the data signal generator supplies data signals simultaneously and in synchronism with the strobe signals so as to refresh sequentially the rows of pixels formed at the intersections of the data electrodes and the strobe electrodes, each pixel having at least two switching thresholds. Each of the strobe signals comprises a strobe pulse within a corresponding one of the time slots, the strobe pulse being preceded by a pre-pulse which reduces the effects of pixel patterning caused by refreshing the previously refreshed row of pixels. The pre-pulse extends within a time slot preceding the corresponding one of the plurality of consecutive time slots. The duration of the pre- pulse is greater than the duration of one of the plurality of consecutive time slots.