Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. has begun mass production of the 40-in. Optical Sensor in Pixel interactive liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, which features advanced optical sensors. Because the display panel can perform touch and multitouch sensing and image display simultaneously, it represents a new paradigm for massively interactive communications compared to the one-way communication of today’s kiosk touch panels, the company said. The panel can detect more than 50 touch points simultaneously and can display images with full high-definition resolution and wide-angle viewing. All of the input functions of a keyboard, mouse or scanner can be performed on the panel itself. It can be installed in a variety of applications, including tabletop and wall-mounted types. Its tempered glass is strong enough to withstand external loads of more than 80 kg. The LCD panel detects reflected images of an object on the panel using built-in infrared sensors. With an optical sensor in each pixel of the panel, the panel can much more accurately assess touch sensitivity compared with existing touch panels, the company said. Because the technology can perform accurate image sensing without interrupting the image signals displayed on the panel, it could be useful to professional consultants, including stockbrokers and financial analysts, the company said. It could also have applications in schools or in business conference rooms. The panel has been installed in Samsung SUR40 for Microsoft Surface, a table-type PC product that was co-developed by Samsung Electronics and Microsoft. The SUR40 is available for pre-order. “Our Optical Sensor in Pixel panel has overcome the limitations of touch functionality that have hampered the effectiveness of most interactive displays,” said Younghwan Park, senior vice president of the sales and marketing team for Samsung Electronics LCD Business. “With the world’s first mass production of an Optical Sensor in Pixel LCD, Samsung Electronics has set its sights on taking the lead in the global interactive display market.” For more information, visit: www.samsung.com