Digital Light Processing(TM) for high-brightness, high-resolution applications

Electronic projection display technology for high-brightness applications had its origins in the Gretag Eidophor, an oil film-based projection system developed in the early 1940s. A number of solid state technologies have challenged the Eidophor, including CRT-addressed LCD light valves and active-matrix-addressed LCD panels. More recently, in response to various limitations of the LCD technologies, high-brightness systems have been developed based on Digital Light Processing(TM) technology. At the heart of the DLP(TM) projection display is the Digital Micromirror Device(TM) (DMD(TM)), semiconductor-based array of fast, reflective digital light switches that precisely control a light source using a binary pulsewidth modulation technique. This paper describes the design, operation, performance, and advantages of DLP-based projection systems for high-brightness, high-resolution applications. It also presents the current status of high-brightness products that will soon be on the market.