The 'JOERS/Alvey' ferroelectric multiplexing scheme

Ferroelectric liquid crystal displays offer an attractive matrix addressed alternative for complex displays. However, their potential can only be realised by using novel addressing schemes suitable for the fast responding, DC sensitive, ferroelectric electro-optic effect. Over a period of several years, a high performance, novel, ferroelectric drive scheme1 has been developed in a UK, JOERS/Alvey funded, collaborative programme. The JOERS/Alvey drive scheme is based on monopulse strobe waveforms2,3,4 and utilises the response time - voltage minimum5,6 found in certain materials. Using this novel drive scheme, complex ferroelectric displays with a high contrast ratio, wide operating range and fast addressing times have been made7,8,9,10 The JOERS/Alvey drive scheme is described, compared with other published drive schemes, and the operating principles discussed.