LCD – For the Novice and the Expert

LCD Distribution

The important thing to know about LCDs is that there are very few substrate manufacturers. Quite often, several LCDs will have virtually the same paneling, but look very different. Think of the whole distribution network that is similar to video cards.

Manufacturers: Samsung, AUO, NEC, LG.Philips, Sharp, Hitachi

Brands: Samsung, ViewSonic, Planar, Hitachi, NEC, Sony

Labels: Dell, HP, Gateway

A substrate producer like Samsung or Sharp might make a panel. Next, that panel could go into a Planar or Samsung brand monitor. Even more confusing, a company like Dell might rebrand the Planar or Samsung monitor as their own under the Dell label. The end result is a system that allows companies like ViewSonic and Sony more freedom to choose whichever panel they feel is best for their particular monitor.

Near the end of this article, we will go into explicit detail about how to select an LCD that’s right for you.