Universal Grid Vacuum Fluorescent Display for Automotive Applications

VFD has occupied a superior position as an automotive information display device because of its self emissive high luminance, high reliability, and excellent readability. Recently, most VFD applications have demanded more flexible graphic design capability, reduction of development cost, and short lead time. To respond to these demands, the Universal Grid VFD was developed and mass produced for consumer applications. Taking advantage of its free design capability and unique driving method, Universal Grid VFD was adapted to automotive applications (ECC, ETR, Odo/Trip Meter) and achieved 1700 cd/m² luminance at 12V and 1/3 duty anode/grid operation. This paper discusses the development of Universal Grid VFD, its characteristics and reliability.