AVS › AVS Forum › Display Devices › LCD Flat Panel Displays › Edge-lit LED Backlight w/ Local Dimming
New Posts  All Forums:Forum Nav:

Edge-lit LED Backlight w/ Local Dimming

post #1 of 17
Thread Starter 
So the new 2010 Sony LX900 and Samsung 9000 series LCDs HDTVs are upon us and both Sony and Samsung are claiming that they are doing LOCAL DIMMING with EDGE-LIT LED BACKLIGHTING. In the past, I thought that it was only possible to perform local dimming if the whole panel was LED backlit.

Could someone please explain how it is possible to do local dimming when the panel is edge-lit with LEDs?

To me it just seems like the folks at Samsung and Sony are pushing some typical marketing spin onto consumers to make them think they are getting a special panel with new tech while they're actually just utilizing software that dims the light across the entire panel or that additionally actively adjusts the contrast levels in certain areas of the picture depending on the scene.

Looking forward to a good discussion, thank you.
post #2 of 17
Thread Starter 
Here's Samsung's press release...
Quote:


Samsung's New Lineup of LED HDTVs Raises the Bar for TV Excellence

mmersive Lifelike Depth and 3D Capabilities, Connected Interactive Content and Services, and Mold-Breaking Design Set Next Generation of Samsung LED back-lit HDTVs Apart

LAS VEGAS, January 6, 2010 – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., a market leader and award-winning innovator in consumer electronics, unveiled today the next generation of its award-winning LED back-lit TVs, featuring a first of its kind built-in 3D processor, connected interactive experiences and innovative, trend-setting designs with a wide range of options to match the décor of almost any living room. . This year's flagship Series, the 9000, has proudly won the 2010 CES Best of Innovations award. Perhaps most notably, Samsung offers its most versatile LED TV lineup, which consists of entry level HD offerings to its highest performing full HD TV's ever, in a variety of screen sizes. Samsung's latest HDTVs will be on display at Booth #11026 during the International Consumer Electronics Show, which will be held at the Las Vegas Convention Center, January 7 -10, 2010.

"Our leadership in the LED TV category is no accident; we identified a consumer need for superior picture quality, ultra slimness and more eco-friendly energy consumption," said Yangkyu Kim, Senior Vice President of Visual Display Division for Samsung Electronics. "We have put all our energy and passion into this year's LED TV lineup with the single objective to deliver stunning experiences that bring life-like depth to TV. With this award-winning lineup, Samsung is once again setting the industry standard not only for quality TV experiences but for technology and innovation leadership."

With eight product series, and screen sizes ranging from 19" to 65", this is the industry's largest lineup of LED TVs to date. From the award-winning 9000 Series, to the Innovations Honoree 7000 and 6500 Series, consumers have virtually unlimited choice of models to fit their individual entertainment preferences and lifestyle. The flagship 9000 series specifically is flat-out Samsung's most impressive HDTV to date - the quintessential slim LED TV with a premium touch-screen remote control and built-in 3D technology, setting a new standard for jaw-dropping home theater picture quality and connectivity. The world's slimmest fully integrated LED TV, the 9000 Series was designed to end all depth competitions, and raise the bar yet again with an innovative stand that includes the built-in tuner.

Built-in 3D
New in 2010, this year's premium models in the LED TV lineup, the 7000, 8000 and 9000, all include Samsung's proprietary built-in 3D processor and emitter that is optimized for, and enables compatibility with multiple 3D standards including half and full HD resolution formats as well as the Blu-ray Disc Association approved "Blu-ray 3D" standard. In addition, Samsung's 3D system delivers a picture using a full color spectrum for an unbelievable, immersive viewing experience.

Along with the company's 3D Blu-ray player (BD-C6900), Samsung offers a complete solution allowing consumers to bring the 3D theater experience home. For those who want to add the third dimension to their regular TV viewing, Samsung included in its 3D processor an auto-conversion technology that renders 2D content into 3D in real time. Consumers can add a level of depth and clarity to a live football game, making them believe they are part of the action.

Connected TV and Samsung Apps
With built-in Ethernet connection and wireless-ready capabilities, the 2010 LED TV lineup is ready to meet the growing consumer demand for "content without borders." The upgraded Internet@TV feature now includes Samsung Apps, providing consumers with an expanded, easy to navigate selection of content and applications from leading services like Accedo Broadband, AccuWeather.com, The Associated Press, Blockbuster, Fashion TV, Netflix, Picasa, Pandora, Rovi, Travel Channel, Twitter, USA TODAY, and Vudu. Applications can be downloaded and viewed all while watching TV. All of the premium LED TVs, 6500 Series and above, will include the upgraded Internet@TV with Samsung Apps.

Unsurpassed Picture Quality
Samsung's premium LED TV's will boast unsurpassed picture quality by using a Samsung-developed technology that merges the advantages of LED edge-lighting with the control of local dimming technology in directly back-lit LED televisions. This technology along with Samsung's high-efficiency LED light source and proprietary picture enhancement engine with video processor ensure unsurpassed picture quality with vibrant colors, deep blacks and better contrast ratios.

Focus on Design
In 2010, Samsung builds on its tradition of innovative design by introducing narrower bezels and brushed metal frames in silver and black– pushing the limits beyond the familiar black bezels of many HDTV's. In particular, Samsung developed a groundbreaking four-legged quad stand that makes the TV look more like furniture than device and a new "mystic earth" Touch of Color™ (ToC™) design scheme with chrome edging to better match a living room's décor. With a wide-ranging pallet of materials and designs, Samsung offers something for virtually anyone's tastes and interior design preferences. What's more, the new LED TVs match Samsung's 2010 line of Blu-ray players and home theater systems bringing a cohesive element to a home entertainment room.

Green Design
All these functionalities are delivered without compromising on the energy efficiency that Samsung LED TVs are known for and meet even higher standards of sustainability. They all exceed the more stringent EnergyStar® 4.0 guidelines. Samsung LED TVs are the highest performing and eco-conscious HDTV products Samsung has ever released, continuing to set new standards every year.

Redefining the Remote
In another industry first, Samsung developed an easy to use on-board TV display full touch-screen remote control. The remote's color touch-screen makes understanding features and options easy and simple. Its integrated Wi-Fi and infrared technology controls TV and AV devices with the on-screen buttons and QWERTY keyboard. It allows users to watch broadcast content directly on the remote so you can watch the first part of the big game, while a Blu-ray movie is just wrapping up on the large screen HDTV(9000 Series only). You can also browse music, photos, and video files from a DLNA certified PC then swipe the chosen content in the direction of the TV to enjoy on the larger screen (9000 Series only). The remote is the primary remote control for the 9000 Series and a derivative version of it is sold separately as an option for other LED TV models including the 7000 and 8000 Series.

Samsung Electronics America's CES press releases, product images and video content is available at www.samsung.com/newsroom.

About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. is a global leader in semiconductor, telecommunication, digital media and digital convergence technologies with 2008 consolidated sales of US$96 billion. Employing approximately 164,600 people in 179 offices across 61 countries, the company is recognized as one of the fastest growing global brands. Samsung Electronics is a leading producer of digital TVs, memory chips, mobile phones and TFT-LCDs. For more information, please visit www.samsung.com.
post #3 of 17
Thread Starter 
And here's Sony's press release...

Quote:


LAS VEGAS (CES BOOTH #14200), Jan. 6, 2010 – From black-and-white, to color, to digital, Sony Electronics is once again setting the new standard for how televisions look and perform. Today, the company introduced its 2010 BRAVIA® LCD HDTV line featuring its first 3D HDTVs, a new innovative and stylish Monolithic Design Concept, and LED backlighting.
The new Sony televisions are another example of how Sony is providing consumers with networked products that enhance the home entertainment experience by offering built-in Wi-Fi® (802.11) for easy access to BRAVIA Internet video, BRAVIA Internet Widgets and personal content through Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA) certified™ home networks.
The line is made up of 38 models ranging in screen sizes from 60 to 22-inches. The LX900 series offers integrated 3D functionality with Sony's 3D active shutter glasses and built-in 3D transmitter, while the HX900 and HX800-series are 3D capable using Sony 3D active shutter glasses and 3D transmitter (each sold separately). The 3D models incorporate a frame sequential display and active-shutter glasses that work together with Sony's proprietary high frame rate technology reproducing full high-definition 3D images.
"Sony's 3D HDTVs leverage the breadth and depth of the company's expertise to create an entirely unique experience at home that draws you closer to entertainment than ever before," said Jeff Goldstein, vice president for Sony's television business. "Sony will continue to own the living room by delivering TVs that work synergistically; both in function and design."
Models in the LX900, HX900, NX800, and NX700 series feature Sony's all new Monolithic Design. The design concept aims to change the entire TV viewing environment by delivering the most innovative, stylish, and high-quality experience possible.
With quality materials forming a simple, flush viewing surface with crisp edges and a smooth border, the models blend into the home's interior and allow viewers to focus completely on beautiful on-screen images without distraction from unnecessary decorative elements. Also, a unique six degree upward tilt option offers a more natural, comfortable viewing experience.
Central to the slim profile Monolithic Design is Sony's Edge LED backlight. Designed to deliver deep blacks and brilliant whites, the design allows for a slim form factor and an outstanding contrast ratio helping the new models impress not only when they are displaying beautiful images, but also when turned off as they blend into the home's décor.

BRAVIA XBR-LX900 Series 3D HDTV
Available this summer, the BRAVIA XBR-LX900 series features integrated 3D functionality and screen sizes including 60 (XBR-60LX900), 52 (XBR-52LX900), 46 (XBR-46LX900), and 40-inch (XBR-40LX900).
The full HD 1080p (1920 x 1080) models feature Edge LED backlight, Sony's new Monolithic Design and Motionflow™ PRO 240Hz motion compensation technology, which helps produces smooth images in fast moving content such as sport and action movies. Sony's 240Hz technology also reduces the mixing of images of 3D content assigned to the left and right eyes, while the BRAVIA Engine™ 3 full digital video processor uses a collection of enhanced algorithms to significantly reduce noise, enhance overall image detail, and optimize contrast so every scene produces sharp, vibrant, life-like images.
The LX900 models also feature Sony's new OptiContrast panel. Designed with a clear surface treatment and a resin sheet sandwiched between the LCD display panel and glass plate, the OptiContrast panel minimizes the reflection and refraction of external and internal light producing deeper images with superior black levels even in bright rooms.
The models include integrated Wi-Fi for an easy connection to broadband home networks. Once connected, users can access thousands of streaming movies, videos, music and more from Netflix, Amazon Video on Demand, YouTube™, Slacker® Internet Radio, Pandora®, NPR, Sony Pictures, Sony Music, and over 25 total providers through the Sony BRAVIA Internet Video platform.
Also, with the touch of a button, users can access the latest in news, weather, USA Today sports, Yahoo Finance, Twitter, Flickr photos, and FrameChannel through small applications called BRAVIA Internet Widgets. The widgets can be uniquely positioned anywhere on the TV screen for a custom viewing experience.
The models also feature playback of personal content including digital pictures, video, and music through USB and DLNA® certified network connections.
Another new feature is Sony's Intelligent Presence Sensor with face detection. The sensor detects if you've stepped away from the TV or are not watching the screen and automatically dims the backlight. After an extended period, the TV will turn off if no one has re-entered the viewing area. Additionally, the Intelligent Presence Sensor's newly added Position Control feature detects a user's viewing position to deliver optimized video/sound balance, while the Distance Alert feature helps to keep small children at an eye-friendly distance.
The models also offer Sony's BRAVIA Sync™ for easy operation with other BRAVIA Sync devices such as AV receivers and Blu-ray Disc™ players, and TVGuide® on-screen channel guide.

BRAVIA XBR-HX900 Series 3D Ready HDTV
The XBR-HX900 series 3D ready (with the addition of Sony active shutter glasses and transmitter, both sold separately) full HD (1920 x 1080p) models feature Intelligent Dynamic LED backlight and Sony's new Monolithic Design.
The model's full-array LED backlighting improves contrast and dynamic range by local dimming that controls the LED backlight level by area so that detail is maintained in the dark areas, while other areas are driven near peak brightness. The technology reduces unnecessary light emission resulting in true and deep blacks compared to conventional LED backlit models.
The models also feature Sony's new ambient sensor that automatically optimizes the TV's color and brightness according to the room environment and lighting conditions for optimized settings.
Featuring screen sizes including 52 (XBR-52HX900) and 46-inches (XBR-46HX900), the model offers four HDMI 1.4 inputs, one component input, one composite input, one component/composite selectable inputs, and a PC input (HD15) with PC/TV picture-in-picture.
The models also feature:
Monolithic Design
Motionflow PRO 240Hz motion compensation technology
OptiContrast panel
USB Wireless-LAN adapter for easy wireless network connection (sold separately)
BRAVIA Internet Video and BRAVIA Internet Widgets
BRAVIA Engine 3 with Intelligent Image Enhancer
USB and DLNA photo/music/video playback



BRAVIA KDL-HX800 Series 3D Ready HDTV
Also 3D ready (with the addition of Sony active shutter glasses and transmitter, sold separately), the BRAVIA KDL-HX800 series will be available this summer in screen sizes including 55-inch class (54.6-inches measured diagonally) (KDL-55HX800), 46 (KDL-46HX800) and 40-inch (KDL-40HX800).
The full HD 1080p (1920 x 1080) models utilize a Dynamic Edge LED backlight with local dimming for improved contrast and dynamic range.
Other features include:
Motionflow PRO 240Hz Technology for Smooth Motion
Ambient sensor
USB Wireless-LAN adapter for easy wireless network connection (sold separately)
BRAVIA Internet Video and BRAVIA Internet Widgets
BRAVIA Engine 3
USB and DLNA photo/music/video playback

Sony also introduced several other new BRAVIA models with various features and screen sizes. They include:
BRAVIA KDL-NX800 series
Full HD 1080p (1920 x 1080) Edge LED backlit LCD
Monolithic Design
Motionflow 240Hz Technology for Smooth Motion
Integrated Wi-Fi wireless network capabilities (802.11)
BRAVIA Internet Video and BRAVIA Internet Widgets
BRAVIA Engine 3
USB and DLNA photo/music/video playback
Available in March
Screen sizes include 60 (KDL-60NX800: $4,00), 52 (KDL-52NX800: $3,400) and 46-inch (KDL-46NX800: $2,800)

BRAVIA KDL-NX700 Series
Full HD 1080p (1920 x 1080) Edge LED backlit LCD
Monolithic Design
Motionflow 120Hz Technology for Smooth Motion
Integrated Wi-Fi wireless network capabilities (802.11N)
BRAVIA Internet Video and BRAVIA Internet Widgets
BRAVIA Engine 3
USB and DLNA photo/music/video playback
Available in March
Screen sizes include 46 (KDL-46NX700: $2,600) and 40-inch (KDL-40NX700: $2,100)



BRAVIA KDL-EX700 Series
Full HD 1080p (1920 x 1080) Edge LED backlit LCD
Presence Sensor, Ambient sensor
Motionflow 120Hz Technology for Smooth Motion
BRAVIA Internet Video and BRAVIA Internet Widgets
BRAVIA Engine 3
USB and DLNA photo/music/video playback
Available in March
Screen sizes include 60 (KDL-60EX700: $3,900), 52 (KDL-52EX700: $2,800), 46 (KDL-46EX700: $2,200), 40-inch (KDL-40EX700: $1,700), and 32-inch class (31.5-inches measure diagonally) (KDL-32EX700: $1,100)

BRAVIA KDL-EX600 Series
Full HD 1080p (1920 x 1080) Edge LED backlit LCD
Ambient sensor
BRAVIA Engine 2
BRAVIA Sync
USB photo/music/video playback
Available in March
Screen sizes include 46 (KDL-46EX600: $1,900), 40 (KDL-40EX600: $1,400) and 32-inch class (31.5-inches measure diagonally) (KDL-32EX600: $800)

BRAVIA KDL-EX500 Series
Full HD 1080p (1920 x 1080) CCFL backlit LCD
Motionflow 120Hz Technology for Smooth Motion
Ambient sensor
BRAVIA Engine 2
BRAVIA Sync
USB photo/music/video playback
Available in February
Screen sizes include 60 (KDL-60EX500: $3,300), 55-inch class (54.6-inches measured diagonally) (KDL-55EX500: $2,400), 46 (KDL-46EX500: $1,600), 40 (KDL-40EX500: $1,100), and 32-inch class (31.5-inches measure diagonally) (KDL-32EX500: $800)

BRAVIA KDL-EX40B Series
Full HD 1080p (1920 x 1080) CCFL backlit LCD
Integrated Blu-ray Disc player
BRAVIA Internet Video and BRAVIA Internet Widgets
BRAVIA Engine 3
Ambient sensor
Ethernet input
USB and DLNA photo/music/video playback
Available in May
Screen sizes include 40 (KDL-40EX40B: $1,000) and 32-inch class (31.5-inches measure diagonally) (KDL-32EX40B: $800)

BRAVIA KDL-EX400 Series
Full HD 1080p (1920 x 1080) CCFL backlit LCD
Ambient sensor
BRAVIA Engine 2
BRAVIA Sync
USB photo/music/video playback
Available in February
Screen sizes include 46 (KDL-46EX400: $1,200), 40 (KDL-40EX400: $800), and 32-inch class (31.5-inches measure diagonally) (KDL-32EX400: $600)

BRAVIA KDL-EX308 Series
720p (1366 x 768) CCFL backlit LCD
Wi-Fi with USB adapter (included)
BRAVIA Internet Video and BRAVIA Internet Widgets
BRAVIA Engine 3
BRAVIA Sync
USB and DLNA photo/music/video playback
Available in March
Screen sizes include 32-inch class (31.5-inches measure diagonally) (KDL-32EX308: $530) and 22-inch class (21.6 inches measured diagonally) (KDL-22EX308: $380)

BRAVIA KDL-BX300 Series
720p (1366 x 768) CCFL backlit LCD
BRAVIA Engine 2
BRAVIA Sync
Available in March
Screen sizes include 32-inch class (31.5-inches measure diagonally) (KDL-32BX300: $500) and 22-inch class (21.6 inches measured diagonally) (KDL-22BX300: $350)
post #4 of 17
I'm curious to it as well. Perhaps it's an alternate version type of local dimming by which LED portions at the edge of course (for segments of columns and rows) are then shut off and on. While it would seem like a harder process to do, I could see that as the only plausible way in incorporating local dimming with edge-lit LED.

That or it could be a marketing name for their hated auto-dimming feature


But one of the things that strikes me from Sony is their new OptiContrast panel (glossy) glass screens. I guess I can finally use alcohol base solutions to clean the screen? So Sony's, as with other manufacturers, have moved to a glossier front. That means added illusion contrast and pop-factor... and of course, reflectivity!! UGH
post #5 of 17
Local dimming can be performed with any type of LED-LCD (edge or direct) because of the diffuser or light guide. In the case of edge-lit LED-LCD if only one edge LED is activated and all others are turned off there is a predictable spread of light into the diffuser (light guide). The advantage is there is a lot less vertical crosstalk with edge local dimming. The disadvantage of course is the zones must be large (no fine control).
post #6 of 17
There is no clear statement from Samsung that the C9000 is Edge lit. The Press release is very unclear in this point, and as the last 3 Top Models from Samsung have been Matrix LD, and as LG has shown Matrix LD in even a smaller TV (it was a prototype but nevertheless) I still expect Matrix LD in the C9000.
post #7 of 17
Thread Starter 
The Samsung 9000 is definitely Edge-lit... I've read it in multiple places and it would have to be at the moment considering how thin it is.
post #8 of 17
Quote:
Originally Posted by SpeedDemon View Post

The Samsung 9000 is definitely Edge-lit... I've read it in multiple places and it would have to be at the moment considering how thin it is.

Well I am not 100 % sure at this point, but I think will be Matrix LD with a technology Samsung propietary. We need wait only a few weeks for know the truth. (Perhaps Matrix LD C9000, LD+EdgeL C8000 and only EdgeL 7000?....)
post #9 of 17
Quote:
Originally Posted by SpeedDemon View Post

The Samsung 9000 is definitely Edge-lit... I've read it in multiple places and it would have to be at the moment considering how thin it is.

Well - you can read it in a billion places - just to repeat rumours doesn't make it true. Samsung is not giving out any information. I tried it as an editor at the german and the US Press department. They just say "Everything we want to say right now is written in the Press release - more will be released at a later point".

And you don't have to consider anything, just take a look at the 6.9 mm thin LG TV with Matrix Local Dimming which they have shown at this CES. If they can do it - why shouldn't Samsung?

http://www.engadget.com/2010/01/06/l...nds-on-at-ces/
post #10 of 17
Yeah, I believe LG is also offering a model with this feature.
post #11 of 17
Does anyone have a diagram of the edge lit light sources?

If it is lit from the sides then an edge light, local dimming scheme might be useful for making letter boxing black?

Other than that, it seems it would be of marginal utility, not much better than simple dynamic backlight. More marketing than substance.
post #12 of 17
Quote:
Originally Posted by guidryp View Post

Does anyone have a diagram of the edge lit light sources?

If it is lit from the sides then an edge light, local dimming scheme might be useful for making letter boxing black?

Good point. Then there is 4:3 signals as well. Below is an example of edge lit local dimming from NXP.

post #13 of 17
I've got a dying Mitsubishi 65" DLP. Want to replace it with a backlit LED in the 60-65" range. Unfortunately, this is proving REALLY difficult. Seems most manufacturers are stopping at 55". My current viewing distance is 9 feet (if I put it on the stand) or 12 feet if it's mounted on the wall.
Few questions:'
1. Would I be happy with a 55" at these distances? Could I mount it on the wall or would that be too far f(12 feet) or this size screen?
2. Even in the 55" models I'm finding "LED Backlight Technology, Edge Light with local dimming." I have no idea what that's supposed to mean. Is it REAL backlighting augmented with edge lighting?
3. Do you have any recommendations for a 60-65" backlit LED TV? I'm pretty new to this and you folks obviously know your stuff so I'd appreciate any feedback/suggestions you might have.
4. Lastly, anyone know when the new TVs are due out?
Thanx in advance!
post #14 of 17
Lg's le5500 is also edge lit with local dimming.
post #15 of 17
Quote:
Originally Posted by register54321 View Post

1. Would I be happy with a 55" at these distances? Could I mount it on the wall or would that be too far f(12 feet) or this size screen?
2. Even in the 55" models I'm finding "LED Backlight Technology, Edge Light with local dimming." I have no idea what that's supposed to mean. Is it REAL backlighting augmented with edge lighting?
3. Do you have any recommendations for a 60-65" backlit LED TV? I'm pretty new to this and you folks obviously know your stuff so I'd appreciate any feedback/suggestions you might have.

1. 12' would be farther than I would want, and since you're coming from a 65", I doubt that you would be very happy with a 55" at 12'.
2. At least on most models, it's a very small number of zones (like 12 or 16) and the TVs don't perform anything like fully backlit TVs with local dimming.
3. I don't think any exist right now. LG and Vizio may release 72" models later this year. If LG does release a 72", it will be uber expensive.
post #16 of 17
The upcoming Vizio XVT323SV and XVT373SV are edge-Lit with Local Dimming.
post #17 of 17
Quote:


I've got a dying Mitsubishi 65" DLP. Want to replace it with a backlit LED [...]
3. Do you have any recommendations for a 60-65" backlit LED TV? I'm pretty new to this and you folks obviously know your stuff so I'd appreciate any feedback/suggestions you might have.
4. Lastly, anyone know when the new TVs are due out?
Thanx in advance!

register54321, I'll answer to your questions no. 3 & 4.
You can check out the new 60" Sharp Quattron edge-lit LED TV models: LC60LE810UN or LC60LE820UN. (Sorry I can't post URL links since I just joined the forum...) There's only aesthetic differences between them, functionalities are the same. Hopefully they'll fulfill your need for 60" class TV, although they don't come with local dimming function...

As for the release date, to my knowkedge, they should be on the market now.

Hope this helps!
New Posts  All Forums:Forum Nav:
  Return Home
  Back to Forum: LCD Flat Panel Displays
AVS › AVS Forum › Display Devices › LCD Flat Panel Displays › Edge-lit LED Backlight w/ Local Dimming