Seiko Epson Corp. has developed LCD panel technology enabling both front and rear projectors to achieve 4-5 times higher contrast ratios.

This was done by changing the alignment layer manufacturing process to align LCD elements in a certain direction, and shifting the LCD driver system from conventional TN (twisted nematic) type to a VA (vertically aligned) type. The company displayed a rear projector TV featuring a LCD panel based on this technology and stressed the higher image quality compared to conventional products at a technology demonstration.

The prototype's full On/Off contrast ratio is a remarkably high 10,000:1. The LCD panel in the prototype is manufactured using the company's D5 next-generation high-temperature polycrystalline Si TFT panel process technology. A 0.9-inch panel can display the 1080p images at an aperture ratio of 52%. The company named the technology Crystal Clear Fine and plans to use it for LCD projector panel products to be released in FY2006 and beyond. Most early products are expected to be used in front and rear projectors designed for home theaters.