Sharp has introduced a new ultra low-power graphic display technology called Memory LCD at SID (Society for Information Display) 2009. The new Memory LCD combines built in pixel memory, high reflectance surface and ultra-thin mechanicals to open new possibilities in mobile display design. Sharp is showcasing a 1.35-inch Monochrome square model of the display at SID, but the company promises additional sizes, as well as color displays, and custom shapes soon.

By using pixel memory each pixel of Memory LCD uses just 15 µW power compared to 1mW used by displays today. The Memory LCD display also uses a new breakthrough Polymer Network Liquid Crystal (PNLC), a reflective display technology that removes polarizers to provide high contrast and wide viewing angles in outdoor high ambient environments.

The display is just 1.4mm thick and can work on single 5V supply with 3-wire serial interface that eliminates the need for external chips. It is also capable of delivering smooth moving graphics and is visible in a 0.5-lux environment without a light source. The lower power requirement brings the display in E-ink zone and the smooth graphics, along with color makes it better than E-ink technology. However, the display is still in prototype stage and it can be a while before we actually see a product based on the Memory LCD technology.

Sharp is sampling the 1.35-inch Memory LCD prototype at SID and the company plans to aim for mobile phones, watches, remote controls and performance tracking electronics markets with the new display technology.