Which LCD Technology - Dichroic or T/N ?

The recent refinements of dye synthesis in the dichroic technology have permitted this form of liquid crystal to be utilized in demanding environments where quality and reliability are paramount. Likewise, the twisted nematic form of liquid crystal continues to be widely used in timepieces, calculators and a wide variety of consumer related products. The basic question this paper proposes to answer, however, is which of these types of liquid crystal affords the most promising future for automotive applications where requirements for versatility and improved quality standards are essential. The dichroic technology possesses unique qualities and characteristics absent in the twisted nematic liquid crystal. This paper, while concentrating on the dichroic technology, will nevertheless discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each technology, touch upon areas of cost, sunlight readability and color capability, incorporation of driver electronics and lighting in a self-contained module ready for immediate application into new instrument designs, and the current Research and Development and its implication for future applications. Finally, a conclusion will be made as to which liquid crystal technology better meets the present application requirements in the automotive as well as other industries.