Since the beginning of machine automation in manufacturing, HMI monitors (Human Machine Interface), workstations, and Industrial Computers have been using CRT technology to let workers interact with machines to carry out manufacturing processes.
The CRT, also known as the Cathode Ray Tube, started to lose favor once the LCD (or liquid crystal display) was introduced in 1998. One of the first standalone monitors was the EIZO Flexscan monitor. From this time forward, LCD technology has pushed its way past CRTs into many aspects of machine automated manufacturing.
Now, CRTs are becoming a thing of the past. The LCD has developed into the preferred screen type for several good reasons.
They include:
1. Reliability. The LCD monitor can last over 100,000 hours, whereas the CRT only lasts about 20,000 hours.
2. Power Saving. Anode lead carries 24,000 volts to a CRT tube, causing it to use three times the energy of an LCD.
3. Cost Effectiveness. CRT repair can be costly. However, LCD retrofit is possible and can cost less in the long run. With a retrofit, you won’t have to change your entire system, which can cost tens of thousands of dollars. You can still keep your legacy machinery intact.
4. Clarity. Clarity of data on-screen leads to less squinting. There’s also no annoying burn-in as the unit gets some use. LCD also produces less eye fatigue for the user due to its lower intensity and constant screen display of pixels.
5. Lighter in weight. An LCD weights 80% less than a CRT.
6. Less heat. A LCD also produces less heat during operation. This is better for the other sensitive electronics like drives, PLC's and power supplies, which shares a cabinet with on a machine.
7. No High Voltage. An LCD requires no high voltage to operate. High voltage can arc, which causes other problems, such as an explosion hazard.
8. Obsolete. CRT replacement is nearly impossible due to obsolescence; they can rarely be found in stock and can only be repaired by certain companies.
In conclusion, converting CRT tubes to LCD is the easiest and most cost-effective solution to extending the life of your monitor or HMI unit. These conversions can be done by a highly-skilled Repair Zone electronic technician in our Tech Center located in Bay City, Michigan. For more information, contact us.