RDS offers practical, non-technical display purchasing advice, focusing on standards, application types, lead times, emerging technologies and tips to empower decision-making.
In today’s fast-paced industrial landscape, selecting the right display technology is crucial for operational efficiency, safety and long-term cost savings. Review Display Systems (RDS) has been helping engineers and buyers navigate this complex market for over 40 years, supplying everything from TFT LCDs to embedded solutions.
Understanding industry standards is essential to ensure a display meets regulatory and performance needs. Standards act as benchmarks for quality and safety. For general industrial use, look for IP (ingress protection) ratings, which indicate resistance to dust and water: IP65 or higher is common for environments with moisture or particles. In medical settings, DICOM compliance ensures accurate image rendering for diagnostics, while IEC 60601 certifies electrical safety around patients. Aerospace displays often adhere to FAA guidelines for reliability and food industry units might require NSF certification for hygiene. Always verify certifications from reputable suppliers to avoid compliance issues that could delay projects and cause issues later on in the design process.
When it comes to types of displays, matching the technology to the application is key. For harsh environments, like construction sites or outdoor kiosks, opt for ruggedized LCDs or LEDs built to withstand extreme temperatures (-30 to 85°C), vibrations and shocks.
These often feature transflective screens that perform well in direct sunlight without excessive power draw. In the food sector, where hygiene is paramount, choose stainless steel-encased monitors with IP67 or NEMA 4X ratings for easy wash-downs and resistance to chemicals. These displays prevent contamination in processing plants or kitchens.
Aerospace applications demand lightweight, high-reliability options such as OLED or advanced LCD panels with anti-glare coatings and wide viewing angles to ensure pilots can read data in varying light conditions. Brightness levels above 1,000 nits are ideal for cockpits. Medical displays prioritize precision; high-resolution LCDs with at least 350 cd/m² luminance and excellent colour consistency are standard for viewing x-rays or surgical feeds. For other sectors, like automotive manufacturing, touch-enabled TFT displays with durable glass overlays suit assembly lines, while marine environments call for waterproof, sunlight-readable units similar to those in harsh settings.
Lead times are a critical purchasing factor, especially amid ongoing supply chain fluctuations. Currently, average lead times for industrial displays hover around 10 to 14 weeks, though this can vary based on customization and global demand. TFT production is ramping up, with Gen 8.6 fabs expected to increase output by 16.5 per cent year-over-year, potentially shortening waits for standard models. However, shortages in components like OLED panels could extend timelines to six to 10 weeks or more. To mitigate risks, plan purchases three to six months in advance, especially for bespoke solutions and build relationships with suppliers like RDS who offer stock buffering.
Looking ahead, 2026 brings exciting advancements in display tech that buyers should consider for future-proofing. MicroLED and MiniLED are gaining traction for brighter, more energy-efficient screens ideal for high-ambient-light applications. Flexible OLEDs enable curved or foldable designs, perfect for wearable industrial devices or compact aerospace interfaces. Transparent displays, using QD-EL (quantum dot electroluminescent) tech, are emerging for augmented reality overlays in medical or manufacturing settings. These innovations promise slimmer profiles, lower power consumption and enhanced durability, but they come at a premium so careful evaluation is required to see if the benefits outweigh initial costs.
Beyond these, here’s some practical advice for buyers: start by assessing your environment (temperature, humidity and usage intensity) to narrow options. Prioritize connectivity like HDMI or USB for seamless integration.
Consider total cost of ownership, including energy efficiency and production lifespan: rugged displays might cost more upfront but save on replacements. Partner with experienced distributors for customization. RDS offers rapid prototyping to ensure the selected displays or systems perform as expected. Finally, test samples in real conditions and check warranty terms for peace of mind.
By focusing on these elements, OEMs can make informed purchases that enhance productivity and reliability.
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