Cree confounds calefaction

has unveiled its LED backlighting approach that reduces power consumption in larger format LCD monitors and televisions by 60 percent compared with other LED backlighting solutions and 12 percent compared with traditional compact fluorescent (CCFL)-based backlighting options.

The new backlighting solution is based on Cree's XThin blue and green LEDs mounted to a thermally conductive substrate.

Cree says that by reducing power consumption, television and computer monitor makers can design larger screens that do not require active cooling, eliminating the need for fans, heat pipes and heat sinks associated with first generation LED backlit LCD panels.

Manufacturers benefit from lower production costs as computer monitors and televisions can be significantly thinner relative to current LED backlighting solutions. Display systems that generate less heat can also maintain brightness and colour uniformity over a longer period of time.

"Initially, LED-based backlighting solutions for larger LCD monitors and televisions were applauded for significantly improving colour rendering. It's now clear that energy savings can also be significant if the backlighting system is designed for high energy efficiency," noted Jerry Simmons, who manages the Solid State Lighting R&D Program at Sandia National Laboratories.