Component Description: Ic

The IC comprises a 12.3 inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) with a multilayered virtual display. The cluster has a high level of graphic presentation and interactive functionality. These features give the driver advanced levels of control and set-up using interactive graphic menu features.

The IC combines a virtual representation of virtual analogue instruments, graphic information, digital information and warning signals. The cluster is linked via a LVDS cable, the MOST ring and the MS CAN body systems bus to the TS which provides selected information directly in the driver's view in addition to the instrument panel mounted TS.

The TFT screen uses a specific type of field-effect transmitter made by depositing thin films of a semi-conductor active layer, as well as the dielectric layer and metallic contacts, over a supporting substrate. The display comprises an active matrix of a large number of individual light emitting picture elements (pixels). Each pixel incorporates its own transistor switch and is controlled by the application of positive and negative voltages across rows and columns. The transistors are made from a thin film of silicon deposited on a glass panel (hence TFT) and each transistor takes up only a small fraction of the area of its pixel. The remaining part of the silicone film is etched away to allow light from the pixel to pass through forming the display.

The IC screen displays at a resolution of 1280 X 480 pixels, at a cycle time of 30 frames per second and an aspect ratio of 8:3 (image width divided by the height), so it has clear definition and no visible delay in changing information.

The IC presents the information in 3 zones, but the information displayed in each zone can vary with the chosen mode and the required information to be displayed.