Sol-Gel
INM Information  
  Pilot Technology

 
Universal PC Interface for Electrochromic Displays

Universal interface for EC display devices, Prototype

Institut für
Neue Materialien
gem. GmbH

Im Stadtwald, Geb.43
D-66123 Saarbrücken

http://www.inm-gmbh.de

Management
Tel.: ++49 681 9300-313
Fax: ++49 681 9300-223

Contact:
Dr. M. Mennig,
Physik und Chemie des Glases

Tel.: ++49 681 9300-394
Fax: ++49 681 9300-223


Objective
  • Development of a universal PC and microcontroller interface for electrochromic display devices

Methods

  • Utilization of integrated hybrid logic and power switching circuits
  • Custom scalable row and line drivers
  • Buffer circuit for use with PC printer ports

Results

  • A prototype interface for use with large area electrochromic displays has been developed and successfully tested
  • 12 lines, 12 rows (prototype), infinitely upgradable in steps of 8 rows or 8 lines
  • Maximal display area 5 m2 (prototype), randomly upscalable
  • Integrated liquid crystal display for user information, regulated power supply for the electrochromic device

 



Applications
  • Evaluation of electrochromic devices, including measurement of electrical characteristics
  • Demonstration and field testing purposes in combination with large area electrochromic display devices

Benefits

  • Compatibility with PC printer port and commercial microcontroller systems.
  • EC power lines are galvanically insulated by reed relays, providing neglectable resistance and precise display testing
  • For final applications, where reed relays are obsolete, the design concept allows miniaturization to fit the display frame