August 1, 2007--Powerlase announced the volume purchase of the high-power Starlase AO8 laser by LG Electronics. LG will integrate the new lasers with existing systems to ramp up production capacity of plasma display panels (PDPs).
The new lasers will be used in conjunction with other Powerlase systems previously purchased by LG and are the essential component of the rapid laser patterning (RLP) process. RLP is replacing wet-etch photolithography methods used to create patterning on flat panel screens. The technique has been successful in driving down production costs by greatly reducing the number of steps involved in the manufacturing process.
A spokesman for LG Electronics commented, "The Powerlase lasers we have used to date have been extremely efficient in improving the production process of PDPs. Demand for high-quality PDP and flat panel televisions has increased significantly in recent years, and these new laser systems will ensure we are able to meet consumer needs both now and in the future."