EL640.480-AG1 Series
ICEBrite™ VGA Flat Panel Displays
USER’S MANUAL
www.planar.com
Page 2
Revision Control
Date Description
July 1999 Document number OM501-01
June 2004 Document number 020-0350-00 Rev A
March 2005 Rev B (ECO 2201) updated J1 connector information
Page 3
Contents
EL640.480-AG1 Series VGA Display .....................................................................................................................3
Features and Benefits..........................................................................................................................................3
Installation and Handling........................................................................................................................................4
Mounting EL Displays..........................................................................................................................................4
Control Basics .........................................................................................................................................................6
Data and Power Connector............................................................................................................................... 7
Locking Power and Data Connector .........................................................................................................8
Video Input Signals..........................................................................................................................................9
Safety and EMI......................................................................................................................................................14
Description of Warranty ........................................................................................................................................16
Support and Service................................................................................................................................................17
Figure 2. Video Input Timing Diagram.......................................................................................................... 9
Figure 3. Setup and Hold Timing Diagram. ...............................................................................................10
Figure 4. Data Format........................................................................................................................................11
The EL640.480-AG1 series displays are 8.1" diagonal VGA products which offer
designers an affordable solution in demanding applications where superior visual
performance and environmental ruggedness are critical. Utilizing Planar’s
proprietary ICEBrite (Integrated Contrast and Brightness Enhancement)
technology, these displays excel in ambient light environments ranging from
dark to nearly sunlight-bright. This technology achieves very high contrast and
exceptionally clear images using a common 8-bit FPD-type interface compatible
with most LCD video controller chips.
The EL640.480-AG1 ET (AG ET) is the extended-temperature version of the
EL640.480-AG1 (AG) display. See temperature specifications on page 14 for more
information. The EL640.480-AG1 ET LP (AG ET LP) is the low-profile version of the
AG1 ET.
Through simple design and advanced manufacturing technologies, Planar’s new
VGA display family brings the visual performance and image quality of EL into
cost-sensitive applications that have up to now been limited by the performance
of LCD displays.
Features and Benefits
• Excellent visual performance:
High brightness and contrast
Wide viewing angle > 160°
• Reliable, long operating life
• Extremely rugged and durable
• Low EMI emissions
• Rapid display response < 1 ms
• Low power design
Options
Anti-glare and conformal coating options are available on this display.
The anti-glare option adds an anti-glare film to the front of the display to reduce
specular reflections (see Application Note 135 for more information).
The conformal coating option adds a protective layer to the display for
applications in which the display may be subjected to high humidity, dust, or salt
mist (see Application Note 122 for more information).
A locking connector, which is standard in the AG ET version, is optional with the
AG display.
EL640.480 AG1 Series User’s Manual (020-0350-00B)
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Installation and Handling
The mechanical package consists of the display panel and electronic circuit board
adhesively bonded together and mounted in a plastic bezel. The bezel supplies
the mounting ears and protects otherwise exposed leads. The display is made of
glass material and must be handled with care.
CAUTION: The display uses CMOS and power MOS-FET devices. These
components are electrostatic sensitive. Unpack, assemble, and examine this
assembly in a static-controlled area only. When shipping, use packing materials
designed for protection of electrostatic-sensitive components.
Do not drop, bend or flex the display. Do not allow objects to strike the surface of
the display.
Mounting EL Displays
The AG1 display series was designed to facilitate the mounting of optical
treatments and touch screens on the viewing side of the display. To this end, the
glass extends in front of the mounting bezel by approximately 0.5 mm (0.02") It is
imperative that any mounting scheme apply uniform pressure across the glass at
all times. Pressure applied only to the corners or edge of the glass is likely to
cause breakage.
Mounting should be done using the mounting ears only. Use either metric M3
screws tightened to 350 Ncm maximum, or unified #4 screws tightened to 4.7
in/lb maximum.
Properly mounted, EL displays can withstand high shock loads as well as severe
vibration found in demanding applications. However the glass panel used in an
EL display will break if subjected to bending stresses, high impact, or excessive
loads.
CAUTION: To prevent injury in the event of glass breakage, a protective overlay should
be used on the viewer side of the display.
WARNING: These products generate voltages capable of causing personal injury (high
voltage up to 230 Vac ). Do not touch the display electronics during operation.
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Cleaning
As with any glass or coated surface, care should be taken to minimize scratching.
Clean the display glass with mild, water-based detergents only. Apply the cleaner
sparingly to a soft cloth, then wipe the display. Disposable cleaning cloths are
recommended to minimize the risk of inadvertently scratching the display with
particles embedded in a re-used cloth. Particular care should be taken when
cleaning displays with anti-glare and anti-reflective films.
The TAB (tape-automated bonding) leads between the electronics and the
display glass are very sensitive to handling. When cleaning the edges of the
display glass, special care should be taken not to damage the leads.
Cable Length
A maximum cable length of 0.6 m (24 in.) is recommended. Longer cables may
cause data transfer problems between the data transmitted and the display input
connector. Excessive cable lengths can pick up unwanted EMI. There are third
party products which allow this maximum cable length to be exceeded. Contact
Planar Application Engineering for more information.
Avoiding Burn-In
As with other light-emitting displays, use a screen saver or image inversion
technique to avoid causing burn-in on the display. Displaying fixed patterns on
the screen can cause burn-in, where luminance variations can be noticed.
EL640.480 AG1 Series User’s Manual (020-0350-00B)
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Specifications
Performance characteristics are guaranteed when measured at 25°C with rated
input voltage unless otherwise specified.
Control Basics
The EL panel is a matrix structure with column and row electrodes arranged in an
X-Y formation. Light is emitted when an AC voltage of sufficient amplitude is
applied at a row-column intersection. The display operation is based on the
symmetric, line at a time data addressing scheme. Required operating voltages
are provided by an integrated DC/DC converter.
Power
The supply voltages required for the displays are shown in Table 1. All internal
high voltages are generated from display supply voltage (V
voltage (V
minimum and maximum specifications in this manual should be met, without
exception, to ensure the long-term reliability of the display. Planar does not
recommend operation of the display outside these specifications.
Table 1. DC Input Voltage Requirements.
). The logic supply
H
) should be present whenever video input signals or VH is applied. The
L
Parameter AG1 AG1 ET Notes
VL
VH
VH, max 15 V 19 V
IL, max 75 mA 0.1 A @ VL = +5 V
IH, max 1.0 A 1.0 A @ VH = +12 V
Ptyp, 120 Hz 6.5 W 6.5 W 3840 'E' characters
Pmax, 120 Hz 12.0 W 12.0 W 50/50 2x2 checkerboard
CAUTION: Damage to the device may occur beyond absolute maximum ratings.
Table 2. Video Input Requirements.
AG1 (CMOS) AG1 ET (TTL)
Description Min Max Min Max Units Notes
Video logic high
voltage
Video logic low
voltage
Video logic input
current
+5 V ±5% +5 V ±5%
+12 V ±10%
3.7 5.0 2.0 VL + 0.5 V
0 0.9 -0.5 0.8 V
–
±10
+8 to +18 V
–
±10 (-300)
absolute max 6.0 V
Video lines have 100 Ω
series resistors, AG1 ET
has internal pull-up in
S input.
µA
There is no overcurrent protection on either the VH or VL inputs to protect
against catastrophic faults. Planar recommends the use of a series fuse on the 12
volt supply. A general guideline is to rate the fuse at 1.8 to 2 times the display
maximum current rating.
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Data and Power Connector
The EL640.480-AG1 display uses the Samtec STMM-110-01-T-D and the
EL640.480-AG1 ET display uses the Samtec EHT-110-01-S-D or equivalent locking
connectors. Although these connectors differ slightly, their pinouts are identical
and are shown in the table below. The mating connector for both displays is in
the Samtec TCSD family of cable strips. The proper connector, user-specified
cable length, and connector configuration are supplied as a single unit. A lowprofile version display, the EL640.480-AG1 LP, uses the EHT110-01-S-D-RA rightangle connector. Consult your Samtec representative (1-800-SAMTEC9) for the
cable/connector options.
Pin 1
Pin 2
Key
(Viewed from back of display)
Samtec STMM-110-01-T-D
Table 3. J1 Connector Pinouts.
Pin Signal Description Pin Signal Description
1 UD1 Video data (upper) 2 UD0 Video data (upper)
3 UD3 Video data (upper) 4 UD2 Video data (upper)
5 LD1 Video data (lower) 6 LD0 Video data (lower)
7 LD3 Video data (lower) 8 LD2 Video data (lower)
9 CP2 Data input clock 10 GND Ground
11 CP1 Input data latch. 12 GND Ground
13 S Scan start-up signal 14 GND Ground
15 GND Ground 16 GND Ground
17 VL +5 V Power 18 VL +5 V Power
19 VH +12 V Power 20 VH +12 V Power
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Locking Power and Data Connector
The display may be ordered with an optional 20
pin, 2 mm through-hole locking male header,
Samtec EHT-110-01-S-D or equivalent. This
locking connector is standard on the
EL640.480-AG1 ET display. The mating
connector is in the Samtec TCSD family of cable
strips. Compatibility with
non-Samtec equivalents should be verified
before use.
Dimming Connector J2
Pin 2
Pin 1
Key
Samtec EHT-110-01-S-D
The ET version of this display includes a J2 analog
Pin 1
dimming circuit which is not available on the
standard display. The J2 dimming connector is a 6pin, straight-locking header made by FCI, part
number 98424-G52-06A. The recommended mating
connector is an FCI 89947-306 (IDC) or FCI 77138-001
and 90311-006 (crimp-to-wire receptacle plus
housing) or equivalent.
Table 4. J2 Connector Pinout.
Pin Signal Description Pin Signal Description
1 LUM Input for pot. 2 GND Signal ground return
3 SLF Self test mode selection,
active low.
5 NC No connect 6 NC No connect
4 NC No connect
FCI 98424-G52-06A
Pin 6
Pin 5
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Interface Information
This dual scan LCD-type video interface provides a low cost, flexible method for
controlling display brightness and power consumption. Many off-the-shelf
chipsets are available for interfacing to flat panel displays. If your application does
not require chip-level integration, there are many vendors that can supply boardlevel solutions for serial control, PC104, ISA, and many other interfaces.
Planar Application Note 116 summarizes some of the interfacing options that
have been used in the past with EL VGA displays.
Video Input Signals
The end of the top line of a frame is marked by S, scan start up signal as shown in
Figure 2. The end of each row of data is marked by CP1 as shown in Figure 2 and
Figure 3.
Input signals UD3—UD0 contain the video data for the upper screen and signals
LD3—LD0 contain the data for the lower screen. For example, four pixels (UD3—
UD0) are sent to row 1 at the same time as four pixels (LD0—LD3) are sent to row
241. This results in eight pixels sent on each cycle of video clock CP2. Pixel
information is supplied from left to right and from top to bottom. Video data for
one row is latched on the fall of CP1 (Figure 4).
T1
S (FRAME)
240 CP1 pulses
T2T3
CP1 (LINE)
UD3 to UD0
LD3 to LD0
CP1 (LINE)
UD3 to UD0
LD3 to LD0
frame n- 1
row 240/480row 1/241
160 CP2 pulses
First pixels (1...4)Last pi xels (637...640)
frame n frame n+ 1
row 1/241
Figure 1. Video Input Timing Diagram.
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Table 5. Video Input Timing.
AG1 AG1 ET
Symbol Name Min Max Min Max Units
T1 Frame time 8.3 --- 8.3 --- ms
Frame frequency --- 120 --- 120 Hz
T2 CP1 High time 60 --- 60 --- ns
T3 CP1 Period 34.5 --- 31.5 --- µs
tSUtHOLD
S (FRAME)
CP1 (LINE)
tCLK
tCL tCH
CP2 (SHIFT)
tSU tHOLD
UD0 to UD3
LD0 to LD3
tR
tS21
tFtR
tF
tS12
tS3
Figure 2. Setup and Hold Timing Diagram.
Table 6. Setup and Hold Timing.
Symbol Name Min. Max Unit
tS21 CP1 allowance from CP2 0 ns
tS12 CP2 allowance from CP1 200 ns
tS3 CP1 allowance to CP2 50 ns
tSU Setup time 50 ns
tHOLD Hold time 40 ns
tR Rise time 30 ns
tF Fall time 30 ns
tCLK CP2 clock cycle 154 ns
tCL CP2 clock low time 60 ns
tCH CP2 clock high time 60 ns
If CP1 (HS) low time >160 CP2 pulses, then non-displayed pixels should be at
a logic low.
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CP1 (LINE)
CP2 (SHIFT)
UD3
Row 1
1
Row 2
9
5
629 633 637
1
Figure 4. Data Format.
Self-Test Mode
The EL640.480-AG1 display incorporates a self-test mode composed of a 1x2
checkerboard pattern that inverts every few seconds. The self-test mode is
entered by applying power to the display with the S signal static. The display
remains in this mode until two (2) low-to-high transitions of the S signal are
detected. The display then enters and remains in normal (user video driven)
operation as long as power is applied. To enter self-test mode again, the display
must be reset by cycling the V
The EL640.480-AG1 ET display can enter self-test mode using the above method
and also by grounding pin 3 of connector J2.
UD2
UD1
UD0
LD3
LD2
LD1
LD0
2610
7
3
4
Row 2 4 1
159
26
3
4
11
12632
8
10
7
11
12
8
H
power input.
630634
631 635
629
630634
631
632636 640
638
639
636 640
633
637
638
639
635
nPixel no.
2
3
4
Row 2 4 2
1
2
3
4
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Optical Performance
Table 7. Optical Characteristics.
Luminance
Lon (areal), min
L
(areal), typ
on
L
(areal), max
off
Non-uniformity
All pixels fully lit 35% Max difference two of five points:
Luminance Variation (Temperature)
Maximum 15% Across operating temperature range
40.0 cd/m²
55 cd/m²
0.2 cd/m²
Screen center, 120 Hz frame rate
Screen center, 120 Hz frame rate
5 points: Center plus four corners
The EL640.480-AG1 display uses frame rate dimming, which allows the display
brightness to be lowered proportionally by reducing the frame rate. This is
performed within the application by lowering the frame rate of the video input
signals. Because brightness is proportional to the frame rate, the display can be
dimmed by adding pauses between every horizontal period. The lowest useable
frame rate (brightness) is dependent on the perceived flicker of the displayed
image, but will most likely be around 60 Hz.
In addition to frame rate dimming, the EL640.480-AG1 ET display features analog
dimming which dims the display to approximately 5% of the full brightness by
connecting a 50K ohm logarithmic external potentiometer to the dimming port.
Alternatively, an external voltage or current mode D/A converter may be used to
facilitate dimming by sinking a maximum of 250 µA (for maximum dimming)
from pin 1 to pin 2 of the dimming port.
For more information on frame rate dimming please see Planar Application
Note 120.
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Generating Grayscales
The AG1 has a maximum frame rate frequency of 120 Hz. Using the higher frame
rate, combined with flat panel controllers designed for this faster display, it is
possible to generate usable grays through frame rate control and dithering. Many
video controllers use these methods with proprietary algorithms to generate
grayscales.
The response time of ICEBrite displays is much faster than LCDs, therefore not all
possible grayscales generated by the video controller are actually usable. Many of
the grayscales may flicker or swim. Careful testing is necessary to select
appropriate grayscales for an application, especially when the ICEBrite displays
are driven at less than their maximum frame rate.
For additional information, refer to Planar Application Note 119 or contact
Planar's Application Engineers.
Environmental
Table 8. Environmental Characteristics.
Temperature AG1 AG1 ET
Operating Operating
Survival
Non-Operating
Humidity
Non-condensing 93% RH max, @ 40°C per IEC 68-2-3.
Altitude AG1 AG1 ET
Operating
Non-Operating
Vibration
Random 0.05 g²/Hz, ASD level, 20-500 Hz
Shock AG1 AG1 ET
Half sine wave 100 g, 4 ms 100 g, 6 ms
-5 to +55°C
-20 to +65°C
-40 to +75°C
0 to 5 km (16k ft) 18 km (58k ft)
0 to 18 km (58k ft), per IEC 68-2-13.
per IEC 68-2-36, test Fdb
18 (3 each, 6 surfaces) per IEC 68-2-27, test Ea
-40 to +85°C
-45 to +105°C
-45 to +110°C
Reliability
Except for performance characteristics with an otherwise specified life
expectancy, the MTBF (mean time between failure) at 25°C ambient is as shown in
the table below.
Table 9. Display Life Expectancy.
EL640.480-AG1 EL640.480-AG1 ET
30,000 hours minimum of 50,000 hours
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Safety and EMI Performance
The display will not inhibit the end product from obtaining these certifications:
Safety UL1950, IEC950
EMI FCC Part 15/J, Class B; EN55022 Level B
Mechanical Characteristics
Table 10. Mechanical Characteristics.
Weight
Display Size
millimeters (inches)
Active Area
millimeters (inches)
Fill Factor
Pixel Pitch
millimeters (inches)
Pixel Size
millimeters (inches)
AG1: 450 g, AG1 ET: 340 g
Width
Height
Depth
Width
Height
Diagonal
58%
Width
Height
Width
Height
218.4 (8.6)
155.8 (6.1)
20.0 (0.8) Low-profile version is 18.0 (0.7)
165.1 (6.5)
123.8 (4.8)
205.0 (8.1)
.258 (0.010)
.258 (0.010)
.197 (0.007)
.197 (0.007)
Component Envelope
Figures 5 illustrates the distance components extend behind the display. Tall
components do not necessarily fill this area. Planar reserves the right to relocate
components
customer notification. For this reason, Planar advises users to design enclosure
components to be outside the component envelope.
14
within the constraints of the component envelope
EL640.480 AG1 Series User’s Manual (020-0350-00B)
without prior
Page 17
[
0.23
]
5.8
7.1 ± 1.7
[0.280 ± .067]
8.1 [0.32]
17.7 [0.70]
21.6 [0.85]
216.0 [8.50]
208.33 [8.202]
(2 PL)
198.2 [7.80]
192.0 [7.56] Glass
172.7 [6.80] Opt i o na l A G Film
165.1 [6.50] Act i v e Ar ea
3.0 [0.12]
132.1 [5.20]
Optional AG Film
149.7 [5.89]
Glass
123.8 [4.88]
Active Area
Connector J2
Standard in AG ET
Pin 1
Connector J1
128.7 [5.07]
123.3 [4.85]
113.1 [4.45]
85.0 [3.35]
128.06
[5.435]
(2 PL)
36.3 [1.43]
Optional Right-Angle
Connector
47.7
[1.88]
52.0
[2.05]
155.8 [5.13]
54.3
[2.14]
62.7
[2.47]
4.5
[0.176]
Typ.
25.0
[0.984]
10.29
[0.405]
20.0
[0.787]
Typ.
6.05 [0.238] Typ .
Component Envelope
Clearance Envelope
0.25
[0.010]
Optional
AG Film
0.51
[0.020]
Bezel to
Glass
Dimensions in are millimeters; inches in brackets.
Tolerances, unless otherwise stated, ± 0.2 mm. Connector is shown from the back side.
Figure 5. EL640.480 AG1 Dimensions.
Note: This is not a controlled version of the mechanical drawing. Prior to beginning your design,
please contact Planar Applications Engineering for the current detailed drawing.
EL640.480 AG1 Series User’s Manual (020-0350-00B)
4.3
[0.17]
Ref.
11.4 [0.45]
.3 [.01]
15
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Description of Warranty
Seller warrants that the Goods will conform to published specifications and be free from defects in
material for 12 months from delivery. To the extent that Goods incorporate third-party-owned
software, Seller shall pass on Seller's licensor's warranty to Buyer subject to the terms and conditions
of Seller's license.
Warranty repairs shall be warranted for the remainder of the original warranty period. Buyer shall
report defect claims in writing to Seller immediately upon discovery, and in any event, within the
warranty period. Buyer must return Goods to Seller within 30 days of Seller’s receipt of a warranty
claim notice and only after receiving Seller’s Return Goods Authorization. Seller shall, at its sole
option, repair or replace the Goods.
If Goods were repaired, altered or modified by persons other than Seller, this warranty is void.
Conditions resulting from normal wear and tear and Buyer's failure to properly store, install, operate,
handle or maintain the Goods are not within this warranty. Repair or replacement of Goods is
Seller’s sole obligation and Buyer's exclusive remedy for all claims of defects. If that remedy is
adjudicated insufficient, Seller shall refund Buyer's paid price for the Goods and have no other
liability to Buyer.
All warranty repairs must be performed at Seller’s authorized service center using parts approved by
Seller. Buyer shall pay costs of sending Goods to Seller on a warranty claim and Seller shall pay costs
of returning Goods to Buyer. The turnaround time on repairs will usually be 30 working days or less.
Seller accepts no added liability for additional days for repair or replacement.
If Seller offers technical support relating to the Goods, such support shall neither modify the
warranty nor create an obligation of Seller. Buyer is not relying on Seller’s skill or judgment to select
Goods for Buyer’s purposes. Seller’s software, if included with Goods, is sold as is, and this warranty
is inapplicable to such software.
SELLER DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED
TO, IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
Ordering Information
Product Part Number Description
EL640.480-AG1 996-0269-00 Standard version
EL640.480-AG1 ET 996-0269-03
EL640.480-AG1 ET LP 996-0269-04 EL640.480-AG1 ET with low-profile right-angle data and
EL640.480-AG1 NE 996-0269-02 EL640.480-AG1 with no ears
EL640.480-AG1 ET CC 996-0269-05 EL640.480-AG1 ET with conformal coating
Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.
Planar Systems continues to provide optional, and in many cases custom, features to address the specific
customer requirements. Consult Planar Sales for pricing, lead time and minimum quantity requirements.
EL640.480-AG1 with -40 to +85 °C operating
temperature and analog dimming
power connector
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Support and Service
Planar is a U.S. company based in Beaverton, Oregon and Espoo, Finland, with a world-wide sales
distribution network. Full application engineering support and service are available to make the
integration of Planar displays as simple and quick as possible for our customers.
RMA Procedure: For a
with the model number(s) and serial number(s). When returning goods for repair, please include a
brief description of the problem, and mark the outside of the shipping container with the RMA
number.