OLED

Also known as: Organic Light Emitting Diode

OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) is a display technology. Unlike LCD displays which work by reflecting light, either ambient light or in its absence a backlight, OLED displays emit their own light and are legible in dark environments without an extra backlight, which helps reduce power consumption.

OLED displays are constructed of a set of thin organic films (the displays are generally less than 500 nm thick) placed between conductors; bright light is emitted when electric current flows through the conductors. This mode of operation is similar to that used in an LED (Light Emitting Diode) although the substrate is organic, hence the name.

Both passive and active OLED displays are available, with active displays having a better reponse rate and in some cases a more vivid image. Siemens is one company that has significantly invested in developing OLED technology.

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Last updated 18th February 2009, 23:53 GMT