Display terminology helps define how a screen looks, operates, connects, and performs inside an electronic device. Understanding these terms makes it easier to compare display technologies, select the right interface, and build products that perform reliably in real-world environments.
Quick Links: 0-9 | A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z
0-9
7-Segment Glass
A 7-segment glass display is a type of numeric display made up of seven separate illuminated sections arranged in the shape of a figure eight. Different sections turn on or off to create numbers from 0 through 9.
Because the display is designed mainly for numbers, it is commonly used in clocks, timers, meters, calculators, and industrial equipment where quick and easy readability is important. Some versions can also display a limited number of letters and symbols.
A
Actieve matrix
An active matrix display gives each pixel its own dedicated transistor for more precise control across the screen. This allows the display to update quickly and produce smoother motion, better contrast, and sharper image quality compared to passive matrix technology.
Think of It This Way: Active matrix works like giving every student in a classroom their own microphone. Everyone can respond instantly and independently instead of waiting for their turn.
C
Capacitieve aanraking
A capacitive touch screen detects touch through the screen's surface. This is the same touch technology used in most smartphones and tablets. It supports quick response times and features like swiping, pinching, and multi-touch controls.
Capacitive touchscreens are commonly used in medical devices, kiosks, consumer electronics, and modern control panels where smooth touch interaction is important. Many capacitive touchscreens can also be operated with latex gloves, nitrile gloves, and compatible styluses.
Karakter-LCD
A character LCD is a display designed to show text, numbers, and symbols in a fixed grid format, such as 2 rows of 16 characters. Each section of the grid displays a specific character instead of free-form graphics or images.
Character LCDs are commonly used in industrial equipment, measurement devices, appliances, and control panels where simple text-based information needs to be displayed clearly and reliably.
Think of It This Way: A character LCD works like a keyboard layout on a screen. Each space is reserved for a letter, number, or symbol in a fixed position.
Karakter OLED
A Character OLED is an OLED display designed to show text, numbers, and symbols in a fixed character layout. Unlike character LCDs, Character OLEDs generate their own light, which allows for stronger contrast and sharper visibility without requiring a backlight.
Character OLEDs are commonly used in medical devices, audio equipment, handheld electronics, and industrial systems where clear text visibility and compact display size are important. They are especially useful in low-light environments because of their bright and high-contrast appearance.
Chip-On-Board (COB)
Chip-On-Board, or COB, is a display construction method where the controller chip is mounted on a separate printed circuit board attached to the display. This creates a complete display module that is ready for straightforward integration into a system.
COB displays are commonly used in character LCDs and graphic LCDs because they provide built-in connections that simplify setup and prototyping.
Think of It This Way: A COB display is like buying a framed picture that is ready to hang. The main components are already assembled together, making installation simpler.
Color OLED
A Color OLED is an OLED display capable of showing full-color images, graphics, and user interfaces. Because each pixel creates its own light, Color OLEDs provide strong contrast, vivid colors, and sharp image quality without requiring a backlight.
Color OLEDs are commonly used in handheld electronics, medical devices, consumer products, and embedded systems that require visually detailed interfaces in a compact display format.
D
Display Controller
A display controller is a small chip that manages communication between a display and the system controlling it. The controller receives data from the processor and converts it into the signals needed to show images, text, colors, and graphics on the screen.
Different displays use different controller chips depending on the display type, resolution, and interface. The controller also affects how software communicates with the display during development.
Think of It This Way: A display controller works like an interpreter during a conversation. The processor sends commands one way, while the display understands them another way. The controller sits in the middle and helps both sides communicate correctly.
Display Serial Interface (MIPI DSI)
Display Serial Interface, commonly called MIPI DSI, is a high-speed display interface designed for compact and power-efficient devices. It transfers display data quickly while using fewer connection lines than many traditional interfaces.
MIPI DSI is commonly used in smartphones, handheld electronics, wearable devices, and compact embedded systems where space is limited. It supports high-resolution graphics and smooth screen performance while helping reduce overall system size.
Dot Matrix
A dot matrix display creates characters and graphics using a grid of individual dots or pixels. Different patterns of illuminated dots form letters, numbers, symbols, and simple images on the screen.
Dot matrix technology is commonly used in character LCDs, graphic LCDs, LED signage, and embedded display systems that require flexible text and graphic layouts. The number of dots in the grid affects how detailed and readable the displayed content appears
Double Film STN (DFSTN)
Double Film STN, or DFSTN, is a variation of STN LCD technology that uses two optical compensation films to improve contrast and display sharpness. This design helps create a darker background and clearer text compared to standard STN displays.
DFSTN displays are commonly used in industrial controls, instrumentation, and handheld electronic devices that require strong monochrome visibility and a cleaner screen appearance.
E
EMI Shielding
EMI shielding helps protect a display and its signals from electromagnetic interference, also known as EMI. EMI is unwanted electronic noise that can come from nearby devices, motors, power sources, or other circuitry. Too much interference can cause flickering, distorted images, or communication problems between the display and the system.
EMI shielding is commonly added in industrial equipment, medical devices, automotive systems, and other electronics operating in electrically noisy environments.
Think of It This Way: EMI is like static during a phone call. The conversation still exists, but outside noise makes it harder to hear clearly. EMI shielding works like noise-canceling headphones, helping the display signal stay clean and readable.
Eve Modules
EVE modules are displays that include a built-in graphics engine to help manage screen functions such as buttons, animations, sliders, and touch controls. This allows the display to handle more of the visual workload instead of relying entirely on the main system processor.
EVE modules are commonly used in Human-Machine Interface (HMI) applications where interactive graphics and touch functionality are important. They can help simplify development and speed up the design process for embedded systems
F
Film-Compensated STN (FSTN)
Film-Compensated STN, or FSTN, is an enhanced version of STN LCD technology that uses an additional optical film to improve contrast and screen clarity. Compared to standard STN displays, FSTN displays typically produce sharper text and a cleaner appearance.
FSTN displays are commonly used in medical devices, industrial equipment, handheld instruments, and applications where readability is important. They are available in both positive and negative display modes depending on the desired screen appearance.
Flat Flex Cables (FFC)
Flat Flex Cables, or FFCs, are thin, flexible cables used to connect displays to circuit boards or other electronic components. They contain multiple flat conductors arranged side by side inside a flexible plastic material.
FFCs are commonly used in compact electronic devices where space is limited, and cable flexibility is important. They are frequently found in TFT displays, laptops, handheld devices, printers, and embedded systems because they allow clean and low-profile internal connections.
G
Grafisch LCD-scherm
A graphic LCD displays information using individual pixels arranged in a grid. Unlike a character LCD, a graphic LCD can show custom visuals such as icons, graphs, progress bars, symbols, and simple images in addition to text.
Graphic LCDs are commonly used in medical devices, industrial equipment, handheld instruments, and control systems that need more visual flexibility on the screen.
Think of It This Way: A graphic LCD works like an Etch A Sketch. Instead of displaying characters in fixed positions, the screen can create images and graphics pixel by pixel.
Grafisch OLED
A Graphic OLED is an OLED display that uses individual pixels to show custom graphics, icons, symbols, and text instead of fixed character positions. Because each pixel produces its own light, Graphic OLEDs deliver strong contrast and sharp image quality without a backlight.
Graphic OLEDs are commonly used in medical equipment, portable electronics, industrial controls, and user interfaces that require more visual flexibility than a standard character display.
H
HDMI-interface
An HDMI interface transfers high-quality video and audio through a single cable connection. HDMI, which stands for High-Definition Multimedia Interface, is widely used in computers, media devices, development platforms, and embedded display systems.
In display applications, HDMI makes it easier to connect compatible devices without complex wiring or specialized setup. HDMI interfaces are commonly used in TFT modules, Raspberry Pi projects, kiosks, and systems that require fast integration and reliable video performance.
HDMI-modules
HDMI modules are displays that connect to a system through an HDMI interface, the same type of connection used on many computers, media devices, and development platforms. These modules include built-in electronics that help simplify setup and communication between the display and the host device.
HDMI modules are commonly used with Raspberry Pi systems, embedded computers, kiosks, and prototyping environments where fast setup and straightforward integration are important.
I
Inter-Integrated Circuit (I2C)
Inter-Integrated Circuit, commonly called I2C, is a communication interface used to connect displays and other electronic components to a processor using a small number of signal lines. Multiple devices can share the same connection path, which helps simplify system design.
I2C is commonly used in character LCDs, sensors, small embedded systems, and applications where saving processor pins and reducing wiring are important. It is well-suited for lower-speed communication and compact electronic designs
IDC Ribbon Cables
IDC ribbon cables are flat cables made up of multiple wires connected side by side in a ribbon-like layout. IDC stands for Insulation Displacement Connector, which refers to the connector style used to attach the cable without stripping individual wires.
These cables are commonly used to connect displays, circuit boards, and internal electronic components in systems where organized wiring and simple connections are important. IDC ribbon cables are frequently found in industrial equipment, embedded systems, and prototyping environments.
Image Burn
Image burn, sometimes called burn-in, occurs when a faint image or pattern remains visible on a display after the same content has been shown for an extended period of time. This effect is most commonly associated with OLED and VFD technologies because certain pixels can wear unevenly over time.
Image burn is more likely in applications that display fixed elements such as menus, logos, status bars, or navigation controls for long periods. Many modern display systems include features that help reduce the risk of burn-in, such as screen savers, dimming functions, and pixel shifting.
In-Plane Switching (IPS)
In-Plane Switching, or IPS, is a type of TFT display technology designed for wider viewing angles and improved color consistency. An IPS display maintains a clear image even when viewed from the side instead of straight on.
IPS technology is commonly used in medical equipment, industrial controls, kiosks, and consumer electronics, where screen visibility matters from multiple angles. Compared to standard TN displays, IPS panels typically provide richer color and a more consistent viewing experience across the entire screen.
L
LCD Display
LCD stands for Liquid Crystal Display. LCDs use liquid crystal material and a backlight to display text, numbers, symbols, or graphics on a screen. They are widely used in products that require low power consumption, long operating life, and reliable readability.
Compared to TFT displays, standard LCDs are typically monochrome and better suited for simpler interfaces such as status readouts, menus, measurement data, and control panels. Common applications include medical instruments, thermostats, industrial equipment, and handheld devices. LCDs are available in character, graphic, and custom configurations depending on the information being displayed.
Low-Voltage Differential Signaling (LVDS) Interface
Low-Voltage Differential Signaling, or LVDS, is a high-speed display interface designed to transfer large amounts of data efficiently and reliably. It uses paired electrical signals to help reduce interference and maintain stable communication between the display and the system.
LVDS interfaces are commonly used in larger TFT displays, industrial equipment, medical systems, automotive applications, and other environments where stable video performance is important. They are especially useful in systems that require longer cable connections or operate near other electronic components.
Luminantie
Luminance refers to the amount of visible light coming from a display surface in a specific direction. It describes how bright a screen appears to the viewer under certain lighting conditions. Luminance is measured in nits or candelas per square meter (cd/m²).
Higher luminance levels help improve visibility in bright environments such as factory floors, outdoor kiosks, or vehicle dashboards. Lower luminance levels are typically suitable for indoor applications where lighting conditions are more controlled.
Think of It This Way: Luminance is similar to how bright a flashlight appears when pointed toward you. Two flashlights may use the same amount of power, but the one directing more visible light toward your eyes appears brighter. Displays work the same way.
M
Multi-Domain Vertical Alignment (MVA)
Multi-Domain Vertical Alignment, or MVA, is a type of TFT display technology that balances viewing angle performance, color quality, and contrast. MVA displays typically provide deeper black levels and wider viewing angles than standard TN panels.
MVA technology is commonly used in applications that need solid visual performance without moving to a higher-cost IPS display. It is a popular option for industrial equipment, control systems, and professional display applications where image clarity and screen readability are important from different viewing positions.
N
Nits
Nits measure how bright a display appears. The higher the nit rating, the brighter the screen will look. Most indoor displays range from 250 to 600 nits, while sunlight-readable displays often start around 700 nits and can exceed 1,000 nits for outdoor visibility.
Think of It This Way: Nits are to displays what lumens are to light bulbs. A standard indoor room needs far less brightness than an outdoor floodlight. The same idea applies to displays. A screen used inside a control room does not need the same brightness level as one exposed to direct sunlight.
O
OLED stands for Organic Light-Emitting Diode. Unlike LCD technology, OLED displays do not require a backlight because each pixel generates its own light. This allows OLEDs to produce deep black levels, strong contrast, and sharp visibility from wide viewing angles.
OLED displays are commonly used in compact electronic devices where high image quality and strong visual performance are important. They are available in character, graphic, and full-color formats depending on the application. Engineers often choose OLED technology for products that need crisp text, compact display assemblies, or strong readability in low-light environments.
P
Parallelle interface
A parallel interface sends multiple bits of data at the same time across several connection lines. This allows information to move quickly between the display and the system controlling it.
Parallel interfaces are commonly used in character LCDs, graphic LCDs, and some TFT displays that need fast communication and responsive screen updates.
Think of It This Way: A parallel interface works like a multi-lane highway. Instead of sending data one piece at a time, several pieces move together at once to help traffic flow faster.
Passieve matrix
A passive matrix display controls pixels through a grid of rows and columns that refresh in sequence across the screen. This design is simpler and more cost-effective than active matrix technology, but screen updates are generally slower, and image quality may appear less sharp during motion.
Passive matrix displays are commonly used in character LCDs, graphic LCDs, and applications that display basic text or simple graphics without fast-moving visuals.
Think of It This Way Passive matrix works like a teacher taking attendance row by row in a classroom. Each group gets attention one at a time, but larger groups take longer to cycle through completely.
R
Reflective Display
A reflective display does not use a backlight. Instead, it uses external light sources such as sunlight or room lighting to make the screen visible. This helps reduce power consumption while improving readability in bright environments.
Reflective displays are commonly used in outdoor equipment, battery-powered devices, and applications where low power usage is important.
Think of It This Way: A reflective display works like aluminum foil in the sunlight. It reflects the light already around it instead of creating its own light source, which helps the screen stay visible outdoors.
Weerstandige aanraking
A resistive touch screen responds to pressure applied to the display surface. Users can interact with the screen using a finger, glove, stylus, or other object, making resistive touch a popular choice for applications that require flexible input methods.
Resistive touchscreens are commonly used in industrial equipment, outdoor systems, medical devices, and heavy-duty applications. Because they rely on pressure instead of electrical contact, they are less sensitive to water, dust, and moisture on the screen surface.
RGB-interface
An RGB interface sends image data to a display using separate red, green, and blue data lines along with timing signals that help synchronize the image on the screen. This interface is commonly used in TFT displays that require fast screen updates and smooth graphics performance.
RGB interfaces are often found in larger displays and applications that show animations, video, or detailed visual content. Because image data is transmitted continuously, RGB connections can provide responsive visual performance for industrial systems, medical equipment, and embedded user interfaces.
RS-232
RS-232 is a long-established serial communication standard used to transfer data between electronic devices. It sends information one bit at a time through a direct connection between two systems.
RS-232 has been widely used in industrial equipment, control systems, medical devices, and diagnostic tools because of its simplicity and reliability. While newer interfaces are more common in modern electronics, RS-232 is still used in many applications that depend on stable and proven communication methods.
S
Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI)
Serial Peripheral Interface, or SPI, is a communication interface that sends data between a display and a processor one bit at a time. SPI is widely used in embedded systems because it is simple, reliable, and requires fewer connection lines than many other interface types.
SPI is commonly found in smaller displays, compact electronic devices, development boards, and applications where space on the processor is limited.
Think of It This Way: SPI works like a single-lane express road. Data travels in one direction at a time through a streamlined path that keeps communication efficient without requiring a large number of connections.
Zonlicht leesbaar
A sunlight-readable display is designed to remain visible in bright outdoor or high-ambient-light environments. These displays use higher brightness levels, typically 700 nits or more, along with display enhancements that help reduce glare and improve screen clarity in direct light.
Sunlight-readable displays are commonly used in outdoor kiosks, marine electronics, transportation systems, industrial equipment, and automotive applications, where standard displays may appear washed out in the sun.
Super Twisted Nematic (STN)
Super Twisted Nematic, or STN, is a monochrome LCD technology commonly used in character and graphic LCD displays. STN displays are known for low power consumption, solid contrast, and reliable performance in a wide range of electronic devices.
STN technology is frequently used in industrial equipment, control panels, measurement devices, and appliances that display text, numbers, or simple graphics. STN displays are available in positive and negative display modes, along with several background color options, depending on the application.
T
TFT Display
TFT stands for Thin-Film Transistor. A TFT display is a type of LCD that uses tiny transistors to control individual pixels on the screen. This allows the display to produce sharp images, fast screen updates, and full-color graphics.
TFT displays are commonly used in industrial equipment, medical devices, automotive systems, and consumer electronics, where visual clarity and responsive performance matter. They are available in a wide range of sizes and can support touch functionality, high brightness levels, and wide viewing angles, depending on the application.
Touchpanels
Touchpanels are input surfaces placed over a display that allow users to interact directly with what appears on the screen. Depending on the technology used, touchpanels can respond to a finger, stylus, glove, or physical pressure.
Touchpanels are commonly used in industrial controls, medical devices, kiosks, consumer electronics, and Human-Machine Interface (HMI) systems, where buttons and controls are built directly into the display interface. Common touch technologies include capacitive touch and resistive touch.
Transflective
A transflective display combines features of both transmissive and reflective display modes. It uses a backlight for indoor visibility while also reflecting ambient light to improve readability outdoors.
This display mode is commonly used in products that move between indoor and outdoor environments, such as handheld equipment, marine electronics, and portable industrial devices. Transflective displays help balance brightness, visibility, and power efficiency across changing lighting conditions.
Think of It This Way: A transflective display works like parchment paper held in front of a light source. Some light passes through from behind, while some external light reflects off the surface, helping the screen stay visible in different environments.
Transmissive
A transmissive display relies entirely on its backlight to make the screen visible. Light passes through the display from behind, helping produce bright and colorful images in controlled lighting environments.
Transmissive displays are commonly used indoors, where ambient light is lower and screen brightness can remain consistent. This mode is frequently found in TFT displays used in medical devices, control systems, and consumer electronics.
Think of It This Way: A transmissive display works like clear plastic wrap placed over a flashlight. The light shines directly through the material, making the image look bright and vivid indoors.
Twisted Nematic (TN)
Twisted Nematic, or TN, is one of the most common types of TFT display technology. TN displays are known for fast response times, sharp contrast, and lower cost compared to other panel types.
TN technology is frequently used in applications where speed and affordability are more important than wide viewing angles or highly accurate color. When viewed from extreme angles, colors and brightness may appear less consistent than IPS displays. TN panels are commonly found in industrial devices, handheld equipment, and general-purpose display applications.
V
Vacuum Fluorescent Display (VFD Display)
VFD stands for Vacuum Fluorescent Display. VFDs are bright, self-illuminated displays commonly recognized for their glowing green or blue-green appearance. They are widely used in audio equipment, appliances, industrial systems, and automotive applications where strong visibility is important.
Because VFDs create their own light, they offer high contrast and wide viewing angles without needing a separate backlight. They also perform well across a broad temperature range, making them a strong fit for demanding environments and long-term applications.