May 24, 2002 — SEOUL– In what’s being dubbed the first of its kind, LG.Philips LCD Co. announced that it has started volume production of TFT-LCDs at its new P4 facility. P4 is said to be the world’s first fifth-generation (above 1 meter per side of substrate glass) thin-film-transistor (TFT)-LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) fabrication plant, according to a company release.
Located in Kumi, South Korea, the new facility will produce TFT-LCDs that will be used for 15- and 18-inch desktop monitors and 15-inch notebook PCs, as well as larger LCD TVs.
"Key equipment for P4 was designed in cooperation with several suppliers to create higher levels of intra-tool integration, reducing the amount of handling time required and allowing for better utilization of cleanroom space. The factory also features a first-of-its-kind, in-line cell assembly line," notes a company spokesperson.
At this time, P4 produces approximately 30,000 sheets per month, but expects that number to double during the second half of 2002. "P4 is the first factory to use larger glass substrates (1000 mm x 1200 mm), which will increase factory productivity and panel throughput in LCD production," said the release.
Headquartered in Seoul, South Korea, LG.Philips LCD-a joint venture company between LG Electronics and Royal Philips Electronics.