Sharp is planning a series of five industrial standard 7 inch TFT LCDs in the first half of 2010, one of which is shipping now.

This month, Anders Electronics is giving away a full evaluation kit of its recently released 5.7inch UMR 5 intelligent display unit, for one of EE Times Europe's readers to win.

Avago Technologies launched a new series of high brightness blue and green 5mm through-hole LEDs for use in electronic sign and signal applications.

Apple Inc. has unveiled with fanfare its iPad tablet-style mobile computer. Enthusiasm is likely to be rapidly waned as STMicroelectronics NV already has a registered trademark on the iPad brand.

Cypress Semiconductor demonstrated a tablet-sized capacitive touchscreen with true multi-touch all-point capability, which the company illustrates in a video release.

Sony Electronics announced the acquisition of Convergent Media Systems, the digital signage and content distribution systems company will be integrated as a subsidiary into Sony Electronics' broadcast and professional products business.

In its latest market study, DisplaySearch reports that LED backlight units will surpass CCFL/EEFL backlights in large-area TFT LCD panels in 2011, and achieve 74 percent penetration in 2013.

California Micro Devices launches the LuxGuard ESD protection diodes, offering a small form factor and a 50V breakdown voltage for high power and high brightness lighting applications.

The QuasarBrite UV family of LEDs announced by Lumex provide a 10 times longer lifespan, a tight beam angle, enhanced durability and up to 50 percent cost savings compared to alternative technologies, says the manufacturer.

The soaring flat panel display (FPD) demand in China alters the traditional FPD seasonality, with the first half of 2010 accounting for more shipments than expected.