2.4 Portables
2.4.3 Portable computer displays
Because of their compact nature and limited power supply, notebook and laptop computers use non-CRT type displays, also referred to as flat panel displays. Two examples of such displays are Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) and gas-plasma panels. These two types of display systems are suited to the portability needs of portable computers for a number of reasons:
  • They are much lighter and more compact than CRT monitors.
  • They require much less electrical energy to operate.
  • Both types of display units can be operated from batteries.

The most common flat-panel displays used with most of the newer portable systems are LCDs. They have the advantage of being relatively thin, flat, and lightweight, and require little power to operate. Additionally, these displays offer better reliability and longer life than CRT units.

The detailed electrical properties of LCDs and how this makes them different from the traditional CRT displays is beyond the scope of this course.

Note: Laptop or notebook display panels are powered by low-voltage DC power sources such as a battery or converter, which contrasts with the CRT displays that are commonly plugged directly to the wall AC outlet.