Samsung Rolls Out 100-Millionth Large TFT-LCD

Samsung recently produced their 100-millionth large TFT-LCD panel. This feat was been achieved in only 10 years, after the company launched an ambitious bid in the TFT-LCD market,

The significance of the 100-millionth milestone means Samsung Electronics has firmly established its position as the leader in global display industry. Starting with R&D efforts in 1991 and overcoming numerous obstacles,

Samsung Electronics went into full-scale production of 100,000 units from its first production line in 1995, followed by cumulative production of 1 million units by 1997. The company rolled out the 10-millionth panel in 2000 and, three years later, produced the 50-millionth unit.

Today's 100-millionth panel marks a growth 1,000 times larger than the company's first year production figure of 100,000 units in 1995. It is clear that Samsung Electronics' LCD business has grown explosively for the past decade.

In terms of the glass substrate sizes, the first line was 370x470mm. The 7-1 Line in Tangjeong today uses the world's largest mother glass of 1870x2200mm, 24 times larger than in 1995, making it efficient for mass production. Line 7-1 started mass production mainly on 32" and 40" panels for large TVs in April this year.

Plans are to reach a full-capacity of 60,000 substrates per month by October. The company's Line 7-2 also will start mass production in the first half of next year, which will add to Samsung's leadership in the industry.

Samsung Electronics maintains a seven-year market leadership since 1998 in the notebook computer segment. Centered on production lines in Cheonan, it will gear up production of panels for notebook computers and monitors in order to maintain global market leadership.

The company's business in small- to medium-sized panels is also doubling each year. The company plans to maintain the breakneck growth pace and No. 1 market position by expanding their applications, including PDAs, car navigation, PMPs, and game players.

"This 100-millionth milestone speaks to the Korean display industry's growing influence in the world display market," said Sang Wan Lee, President of Samsung Electronics' LCD Business.

"Moving forward, Samsung Electronics remains committed to the advancement of our LCD technologies, which will ensure our industry leadership."