All sorts of consumer electronic devices use LCD displays today. LCDs are found on smartphones, MP3 players, and notebook computers. One of the main drawbacks to many LCDs is that the images and text on the screen can be very hard to see clearly in sunlight.

LCD backlighting is also one of the biggest causes of drain on the laptop battery, which is why the move to LED backlighting helped to extend battery life in current notebook computers. LG Display -- one of the firms sentenced this month for LCD price fixing -- has announced a new 14.1-inch LCD for notebook computers that uses a very innovative way to save power when outdoors in sunlight.

When notebooks using the display are outside, sunlight is used to illuminate the panel rather than the displays integrated backlight. The technology that enables the new screen is called Backlight Data Signal Switching Technology and will be shown at CES 2009.

The technology makes use of selective reflection plates that are used in current LCDs to change from low luminance settings (used in doors or at night) to high luminance setting (used in direct sunlight). The LG LCD panel is the first LCD to offer a button that allows users to switch to outdoor reflective mode with the touch of a button.

When outdoor more is enabled the energy consumption drops to one fourth of the consumption when the backlight is in use. LG also says that the new LCD resolves visibility issues with a contrast ratio over 9:1 when used outdoors in reflective mode. LG claims that normal LCDs have a contrast ratio ranging from 2:1 to 3:1 when used outdoors.

LG VP and head of LCD Lab In-Byeong Kang said in a statement, "Our environmentally friendly, 14.1 inch LCD for notebook PC overcomes the challenges of extending battery life in use of notebook PCs outdoors where isn’t likely to be power outlets, while providing superior outdoor visibility."