USDC initiates CRADA with NIST for display daylight readability measurement

June 28, 2007, San Jose, CA--The U.S. Display Consortium (USDC) has commenced a two-year Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST; Gaithersburg, MD) of the U.S. Department of Commerce. The $450,000 program will enable the development of tools and techniques to measure the character contrast of the many display devices that are used outdoors in numerous applications.

As display devices become increasingly mobile, the demand for sunlight-readable displays is becoming more critical. However, at present, the term "sunlight-readable" is ill-defined, and there is no industry standard measurement method available. This makes it difficult for the display manufacturer and customer to determine the quality and performance of a product, or compare product specifications. A standard sunlight readability measurement would be invaluable in providing feedback to display designers benchmarking display development and improving next generation products.

"NIST has been actively involved in the development of display metrology standards, procedures, and practices for many years," said Rep. Mike Honda (D-CA). "They are the premier national facility in this area and have developed significant capability through the NIST Display Metrology Project. I am pleased that the USDC decided to initiate its first-ever CRADA with NIST, as the institute is uniquely qualified to conduct this metrology program."

For more information, contact the USDC.