CCFL backlight vs LED backlight
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[edit] CCFL
CCFL backlight is the older technology. it produces thicker panels which are not always evenly illuminated. CCFL backlighting requires an "inverter" circuit to produce the high voltages required to drive CCFLs. both CCFLs themselves and inverter boards are prone to failure which makes CCFL backlight LCD displays not very reliable.
[edit] LED
LED backlighting is the newer technology. LED backlighting can be used to produce thinner and more evenly lit panels. LEDs are less prone to failure than CCFL tubes and don't require an inverter circuit which makes LED backlit displays overall more reliable. LED backlighting technology also potentially enables various performance enhancing optimizations ( at additional cost ) for improved contrast ( individually addressable backlight zones ), color gamut ( RGB array backlight ) and even ghosting / 3D performance ( backlight strobing ).
[edit] Popularity Trend
CCFL technology as of now ( November 2010 ) is well on its way out of the high performance display segment however one must recognize that not all LED backlights are created equal. Simply getting an LED backlit display does not mean you are getting the latest or most advanced backlighting technology.
[edit] LED Advantages
LED backlighting ultimately has the edge because it is fundamentally simple. This simplicity gives LED backlighting greater energy efficiency, reliability and flexibility of application.
[edit] Safety
CCFL tubes contain mercury which is extremely toxic - yet another reason to stay clear of CCFLs.
[edit] CCFL Advantages
As of today the only real advantage CCFL still has is low cost, but this is likely to change.
