Samsung 2006 Annual Report Download - page 47

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On the other end of the spectrum, we have developed and are
now mass-producing a 7˝ amorphous silicon LCD with wide video
graphics array (WVGA) resolution and a single-chip driver. We expect
this breakthrough to make Samsung a leading producer of displays
for such mobile applications as digital multimedia broadcasting
(DMB) terminals, portable multimedia players (PMPs) and automotive
navigation systems.
New production lines to lead the standardization of
the LCD TV segment
We are expanding capacity to bolster our position in the rapidly-
expanding large-screen LCD TV market. Samsung is already
operating two 7th-generation (motherglass measuring 1,870 by
2,200mm) lines and will start up an 8th-generation (motherglass of
2,200 by 2,500mm) line in a joint venture with Sony in the second
half of 2007. This industry-leading production capacity will be
leveraged to standardize and popularize LCD TVs with panel
sizes in both the 40˝ and 50˝ ranges. The 8th-generation line cost
approximately US$2 billion to build and can process 50,000
motherglasses a month into 300,000 LCD panels (based on 52˝
panels).
With plummeting LCD prices, investment in 8th-generation lines
has been delayed within the industry. However, we have remained on
schedule with our facility expansion plans, extending its lead over the
competition. We are now confident that we can secure a preeminent
position in the market for LCDs in the 50˝ range.
At the same time, we continue to diversify into new display
market segments. We have applied new technologies to expand our
product lines beyond the conventional notebook PC, monitor and
LCD TV models to include digital information displays (DIDs), high-
end monitors and premium notebook PCs.
70˝ Full-HD LCD (DID)
This 70˝ model is the world’s largest LCD
commercially available, measuring 5˝ more
than next-biggest product currently in mass
production. The full high definition resolution
delivers superior performance.
We continue to extend our product range,
from the outdoor digital signboard market to
the ultra-large-screen TV market.
52˝ Full-HD LCD (TV)
This LCD panel for home theaters will be the
main item produced on the 8th-generation
line at Tangjeong, Korea, when full operation
begins in the second half of 2007. The LCD
features full-HD resolution and operates at
120Hz for sharp and clean video images.
When they see it in action, many LCD TV
buyers will opt for LCDs larger than 40˝.
46˝ Full-HD LCD (TV)
The 46˝ panel is currently our most popular
size for use in home living rooms. The full-HD
resolution offers clear and natural images that
cannot be provided by plasma models in the
40˝ range.
24˝ LCD (Monitor)
This premium LCD panel for monitors is
equipped with an advanced LED backlight.
The industry-best 111% true color saturation
delivers the ideal work environment for
professional photographers and graphics
designers. The screen size is optimal for
Windows Vista, and multitasking performance
is superb.
15.4˝ LCD (Notebook PC)
With this multifunctional panel, we have
been leading the trend toward wider-screen
notebook PCs. The ultra-slim profile improves
portability, and the screen size is ideal for
multimedia applications.
7˝ LCD with Single Driver Chip (Mobile)
The 7˝ display boasts WVGA (800 x 480 pixels)
resolution and features a single driver chip,
making it well suited for such premium mobile
multimedia products as personal navigation
devices (PNDs), automotive navigation
systems, digital multimedia broadcasting
(DMB) phones and portable multimedia
players (PMPs). Our proprietary amorphous
silicon gate technology has been applied to
reduce the circuitry footprint and number of
parts by one-third.
0.82mm LCD (Mobile)
We have developed an LCD panel 0.82mm
thick, the same as a credit card, helping to
accelerate the transition to ultra-slim mobile
products. Our breakthrough i-Lens technology
has been applied to make the panel more
shock resistant and easier to read.
Digital Media Telecommunication Networks Digital Appliances Semiconductors LCDs