The Emerging Application Potential of LTPS Technology

Low-temperature polysilicon (LTPS) technology has continued to mature with the passing of each year since LTPS mass production began. The integration of complex circuits has become possible with advances in microprocessing, leading to the realization of panels with highly advanced functions. At the same time, efforts have been made to meet market demands for lower costs, thereby boosting competitive strength. Today, LTPS-TFT LCDs have become standard equipment for the monitors of digital still cameras, and inroads are being made into the massive cellular phone market. Micro displays such as electronic viewfinders, which were previously only possible with high-temperature polysilicon technology, can now also be made with LTPS, thus expanding the scope of the technology. AMOLED displays using the LTPS-TFT as a back plane are also approaching the stage of industrialization. The hidden potential for the OLED to replace the familiar LCD has prompted Widespread anticipation for this emerging technology. This paper reflects on the history of LTPS technology, then looks forward to its future prospects and suggests a variety of potential fields of application.