E-Ink displays

Source-This post on E-Ink displays has been created based on the article “Unlocking the science of E-Ink displays: Why we believe they must catch on” published in “The Indian Express” on 28 January 2024.

Why in the news?

The Indian express has recently published an article about E Ink and why it could not conquer all our screens despite its advantages.

What are E-Ink displays?

An E-ink display is a screen that aims to replicate the experience of reading and writing on paper. They are used in e-readers like the Amazon Kindle.

How do E-Ink displays work?

The screens work by using tiny microcapsules. These microcapsules are filled with positively charged white particles and negatively charged black particles. These particles are suspended in fluid inside the display.

When positive or negative electrical charges are applied to different areas of the screen, the white or black particles can be made to rise to the surface. Rising of particles to the surface creates the text and images on the display.

Advantages of E-Ink displays

1) They consume less power compared to LCD and OLED displays.
2) They can display a static image for weeks or months without needing a charge. This makes them ideal for long battery life.
3) They cause less strain on the user’s eyes.

Disadvantages of E-Ink displays

1) They have slow refresh rate compared to LCD and OLED displays. This makes them unsuitable for video or animation
2) They have limitations of colour and resolution compared to other display technologies.
3) They are expensive, especially in larger sizes. This limits their use to mostly e-readers.

Other application of E-Ink displays

They are being used at bus stop displays, walking direction signs, and some restaurants’ menu boards.

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