18-inch LCDs in works, coming to Acer first

LCD maker Chunghwa Picture Tubes today revealed that a new panel is in the works that could affect the designs of both desktop and notebook displays. Measuring 18.4 inches, the display will sit between 17- and 19-inch LCDs in cost but will adopt a wider, HDTV-like 1366x768 resolution versus the taller pictures of its smaller and larger models. The screen will be designed for distance viewing and will boast a relatively high 1,000:1 contrast ratio and 5ms pixel response time, Chunghwa claims.

The larger display can be used for desktops but will be used for desktop replacement notebooks -- including a future Acer system, the LCD producer says. Though too early for most details, the system will combine both Intel's new mobile Penryn processors with the upcoming Montevina platform and will be aimed at high-end buyers with a $2,000 price target. The cost hints at likely dedicated graphics and a large amount of storage.

Other companies are in talks that may see the 18.4-inch LCD in use for other desktop displays or notebooks, according to claims inside the industry.

Production of the screens will start towards late spring 2008, pushing releases themselves into the summer; Montevina will not be ready until the same period and dictates a release in the second half of the year for Acer's notebook.

Filed under: computers, peripherals, digital imaging
Other story tags: Acer, Penryn, Montevina, Chunghwa