Planar EL320.240.36-HB User manual

EL320.240.36-HB
High-Bright Small Graphics Display
USER’S MANUAL
www.planar.com

Revision Control
Date Description
September 2001 Document number OM220-01
June 2004 Document number 020-0346-00A

Contents
EL320.240.36-HB Quarter-VGA Display..............................................................................................................2
Features and Benefits..........................................................................................................................................2
Installation and Handling........................................................................................................................................3
Mounting EL Displays..........................................................................................................................................3
Cable Length...........................................................................................................................................................4
Cleaning ...................................................................................................................................................................4
Avoiding Burn-In ...................................................................................................................................................4
Specifications ..............................................................................................................................................................5
Control Basics .........................................................................................................................................................5
Power.........................................................................................................................................................................5
Connector................................................................................................................................................................6
Dimming Connector J2.................................................................................................................................. 7
Interface Information...........................................................................................................................................7
Video Input Signals.......................................................................................................................................... 7
Internal Frame Buffer...........................................................................................................................................9
Dimming ..................................................................................................................................................................9
Self-Test Mode........................................................................................................................................................9
Optical.....................................................................................................................................................................10
Environmental......................................................................................................................................................10
Reliability................................................................................................................................................................11
Safety and EMI Performance...........................................................................................................................11
Optional Features................................................................................................................................................11
Mechanical Characteristics..............................................................................................................................11
Component Envelope .......................................................................................................................................11
Description of Warranty ........................................................................................................................................13
Ordering Information.............................................................................................................................................13
Support and Service................................................................................................................................................14
Figures
Figure 1. Data/Power Connector.....................................................................................................................6
Figure 2. Video Input Timing Diagram ..........................................................................................................7
Figure 3. Pixel Location versus Sequence of Data.....................................................................................8
Figure 4. Display Dimensions..........................................................................................................................12
Tables
Table 1. DC Input Voltage Requirements. ....................................................................................................5
Table 2. Video Input Requirements. ...............................................................................................................5
Table 3. J1 Connector Pinouts..........................................................................................................................6
Table 4. Video Input Descriptions. ..................................................................................................................8
Table 5. Luminance Control ..............................................................................................................................9
Table 6. Optical Characteristics......................................................................................................................10
Table 7. Environmental Characteristics.......................................................................................................10
Table 8. Mechanical Characteristics..............................................................................................................11

EL320.240.36-HB Operations Manual (020-0346-00A)
2
EL320.240.36-HB Quarter-VGA Display
The EL320.240.36-HB thin film electroluminescent (EL) display is a high-
performance alternative to quarter-VGA LCDs and is the ideal solution in
demanding applications where superior visual performance and
environmental ruggedness are critical. The EL320.240.36-HB utilizes Planar’s
proprietary Integral Contrast Enhancement (ICE™) technology to achieve
unparalleled image quality without the use of expensive filters. This small
graphics display excels in a wide range of ambient lighting environments
while effectively eliminating the blooming common to other high-bright
displays.
The display consists of an EL glass panel and control electronics assembled
into a space-saving, rugged package for easy mounting. The EL320.240.36-
HB is easily interfaced using standard 4-bit LCD control signals. Each of the
76,800 pixels is individually addressable to clearly display high information
content graphics and text.
Features and Benefits
• Excellent visual performance:
High brightness and contrast
Wide viewing angle >160°
• Rapid display response <1 ms
• Frame Buffer
• Space efficient mechanical package
• Low EMI emissions
• Extremely rugged and durable
• Reliable, long operating life
• 4-bit LCD-type interface

EL320.240.36-HB Operations Manual (020-0346-00A) 3
Installation and Handling
Do not drop, bend, or flex the display. Do not allow objects to strike the
surface of the display.
CAUTION: The display uses CMOS and power MOS-FET devices. These
components are electrostatic sensitive. Unpack, assemble, and examine this
assembly in a static-controlled area only. When shipping, use packing
materials designed for protection of electrostatic-sensitive components.
Mounting EL Displays
Properly mounted, EL displays can withstand high shock loads as well as
severe vibration found in demanding applications. However the glass panel
used in an EL display will break if subjected to bending stresses, high impact,
or excessive loads.
Avoid bending the display. Stresses are often introduced when a display is
mounted into a product. Ideally, the mounting tabs of the display should be
the only point of contact with the system. Use a spacer or boss for support;
failure to do so will bend the display and cause the glass to break. The
instrument enclosure or frame should not flex or distort in such a way that
during use the bending loads might be transferred to the display. The
EL320.240.36-HB mounting tabs were designed for a 3 mm screw. Mounting
surfaces should be flat to within ±0.6 mm (±0.025"). Use all the mounting holes
provided. Failure to do so will impair the shock and vibration resistance of the
final installation.
CAUTION: To prevent injury in the event of glass breakage, a protective
overlay should be used on the viewer side of the display.
WARNING: These products generate voltages capable of causing personal
injury (high voltage up to 235 V
ac
). Do not touch the display electronics
during operation.

EL320.240.36-HB Operations Manual (020-0346-00A)
4
Cable Length
A maximum cable length of 0.6 m (24 in.) is recommended. Longer cables may
cause data transfer problems between the data transmitted and the display
input connector. Excessive cable lengths can pick up unwanted EMI. There are
third party products which allow this maximum cable length to be exceeded.
Contact Planar Application Engineering for more information.
Cleaning
As with any glass or coated surface, care should be taken to minimize
scratching. Clean the display glass with mild, water-based detergents only.
Apply the cleaner sparingly to a soft cloth, then wipe the display. Disposable
cleaning cloths are recommended to minimize the risk of inadvertently
scratching the display with particles embedded in a re-used cloth. Particular
care should be taken when cleaning displays with anti-glare and anti-reflective
films.
Avoiding Burn-In
As with other light emitting displays, use a screen saver or image inversion to
avoid causing burn-in on the display. Displaying fixed patterns on the screen
can cause burn-in, where luminance variations can be noticed.

EL320.240.36-HB Operations Manual (020-0346-00A) 5
Specifications
Performance characteristics are guaranteed when measured at 25°C with rated
input voltage unless otherwise specified.
Control Basics
The EL panel is a matrix structure with column and row electrodes arranged in
an X-Y formation. Light is emitted when an AC voltage of sufficient amplitude
is applied at a row-column intersection. The display operation is based on the
symmetric, line-at-a-time data addressing scheme.
Power
The supply voltages are shown in Table 1. All internal high voltages are
generated from the display supply voltage (VH). The logic supply voltage (VL)
should be present whenever video input signals or VHis applied. The
minimum and maximum specifications in this manual should be met, without
exception, to ensure the long-term reliability of the display. Planar does not
recommend operation of the display outside these specifications.
Table 1. DC Input Voltage Requirements.
Parameter Symbol Min Typ Max Absolute Max
Logic supply voltage V
L
4.75
V
5 V 5.25 V 6 V
Logic supply current at +5 V I
L
0.10 A
Display supply voltage V
H
8 V 12 V 18 V 19V
Supply current at +12 V I
H
0.4A 0.9 A
Power consumption @
maximum frame rate
5.5 W 11 W
Power consumption @ 120 Hz 3.5 W
CAUTION: Absolute maximum ratings are those values beyond which
damage to the device may occur.
Table 2. Video Input Requirements.
Description Min Max Units Notes
Absolute Input Voltage
Range
-0.3 5.5 V V
L=
5.0 V
Video logic high voltage 2.2 5.0 V All input thresholds are TTL
Video logic low voltage 0 0.8 V
Video logic input current – ±0.25 mA ±0.75 mA max Selftest
Input capacitance – 15 pF
There is no overcurrent protection on either the VHor VLinputs to protect
against catastrophic faults. Planar recommends the use of a series fuse on the
12 volt supply(VH). A general guideline is to rate the fuse at 1.8 to 2 times the
display maximum current rating.

EL320.240.36-HB Operations Manual (020-0346-00A)
6
Connector
The display uses the Samtec EHT-110-01-S-D or equivalent locking connector.
The mating connector is in the Samtec TCSD family of cable strips. The proper
connector, user-specified cable length and connector configuration is supplied
as a single unit. Consult your Samtec representative (1-800-SAMTEC9) for the
cable/connector options. Compatibility with non-Samtec equivalents should
be verified before use.
Figure 1. Data/Power Connector
Table 3. J1 Connector Pinouts.
Pin Signal Description Pin Signal Description
1 V
H
+12 V Power 2 V
H
+12 V Power
3 Selftest Selftest Input
1
4 SCAN Scan rate control
5 V
L
+5 V Power 6 GND Ground
7 VS Vertical Sync 8 GND Ground
9 HS Horizontal Sync 10 GND Ground
11 VCLK Video Clock 12 GND Ground
13 VID
0
Video Data 14 GND Ground
15 VID
1
Video Data 16 GND Ground
17 VID
2
Video Data 18 GND Ground
19 VID
3
Video Data 20 GND Ground
1
Connect pin 3 to ground for normal display operation.
J1
J2
Pin 1
Pin 1
Key
Pin 2
Pin 1 Ke
y
(Viewed from top of connector)
(Viewed from
back of display)

EL320.240.36-HB Operations Manual (020-0346-00A) 7
Dimming Connector J2
The J2 analog dimming connector is a Berg six-pin, dual in-line header, part
number 95615-106. The mating connector is the Berg 89947-706 (IDC) or a
combination of the Berg 77138-001 (discrete crimp-to-wire receptacle) and the
Berg 90311-006 (housing). Refer to “Dimming” on page 9 for more
information.
The pin assignments are:
Pin Symbol Description
1 LUMA Luminance A
2 GND Ground
3 RESERVED Reserved
4 LUMC Luminance C
5 GND Ground
6 LUMD Luminance D
Interface Information
Planar EL Small Graphics Displays (SGD) incorporate an interface that is similar
to many LCD interfaces. This interface is supported by a variety of
off-the-shelf chip sets which take care of all display control functionality,
freeing the system processor for other tasks. Designers should select the chip
set that best suits their particular architecture and price point.
Video Input Signals
The end of the top line of a frame is marked by VS, vertical sync signal as
shown in Figure 2. The end of each row of data is marked by HS. Depending on
the input frame rate, a continuous low state of the VS input signal will shut the
display scan after one frame period.
Figure 2. Video Input Timing Diagram.
Timing is compatible with LCD graphics controllers.
Pin 1
3
4 5
6
7 8
9
1 2
10 11
Second Line
VID Data
First Line
VID Data
Pixels: a b c dPixels: w x y z
HS
VID 0-3
VCLK
HS
VS
Vertical Timing
Horizontal Timing

EL320.240.36-HB Operations Manual (020-0346-00A)
8
Table 4. Video Input Descriptions.
Num Description Symbol Min. Typ. Max. Units
1 HS high time tHSh 100 nsec
2 HS low time tHSl 80 tVCLK
3 HS to VCLK rising edge tHSsu 95 nsec
4 VID setup to VCLK tVIDsu 50 nsec
5 VID hold from VCLK tVIDhd 50 nsec
6 Video clock period tVCLK 140 nsec
VCLK rise, fall time tVCLKrf 10 15 nsec
7 VCLK low width tVCLKl 30 nsec
8 VCLK high width tVCLKh 30 nsec
9 VS high setup to HS low tVShsu 140 nsec
10 VS hold after HS tVShd 140 nsec
11 VS low setup to HS high tVSlsu 140 nsec
12 HS period tHS 34 µsec
VS period tVS 240 tHS
Frame Rate fVS 1 120 Hz
Input signals VID0through VID3contain the video data for the screen. Pixel
information is supplied from left to right and from top to bottom four pixels at
a time. Video data for one row is latched on the fall of HS.
a b c d e f g h i j k l mn o p
EL Panel
(Front)
w xyz
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
i
j
k
l
m
n
o
p
w
x
y
z
VID3
VID2
VID1
VID0
Row 1
Figure 3. Pixel Location versus Sequence of Data.

EL320.240.36-HB Operations Manual (020-0346-00A) 9
Internal Frame Buffer
This display includes an internal frame buffer. The display frame rate and the
display brightness are independent of user-supplied input data timing. The
display frame rate can be controlled through the digital dimming feature as
described below.
CAUTION: The display includes an internal frame buffer. In order to blank the
display image in the event of system malfunction, pull down the VS signal.
Dimming
There are two standard methods for dimming the EL320.240.36-HB display.
Analog dimming using the J2 dimming connector described on page 7 of this
manual allows for manual dimming from 100% to approximately 5% of the full
brightness. To perform analog dimming, connect a 50 k ohm variable resistor
between LUMA and GND. Alternatively, an external voltage or current mode
D/A converter may be used to facilitate dimming by sinking a maximum of 250
µA (for maximum dimming) from LUMA to GND on the input connector. Open
circuit voltage is 4 V nominal.
The internal scan frequency can be controlled via the LUMC and LUMD inputs.
When LUMC and LUMD are left open, the scan rate is determined by the SCAN
signal (pin 4) on the data input connector. With the combination of LUMC and
LUMD, the following and luminance levels are obtained:
Table 5. Luminance Control
Approx. Relative luminance 100% 75% 50% 30% 100% 50%
LUMD (internal pull up) High High Low Low Open Open
LUMC (internal pull up) High Low High Low Open Open
SCAN (J1 pin 4) Open Open Open Open High Low
Self-Test Mode
The display incorporates a self-test mode composed of two patterns displayed
at maximum frame rate for approximately 30 seconds each, and then
repeated. The patterns are as follows:
50/50 Checkerboard and Full On . The
self-test mode is entered by leaving pin 3 on J1 unconnected or pulled high.
This pin has an internal pull-up. Connect pin 3 on J1 to Ground for normal
display operation.

EL320.240.36-HB Operations Manual (020-0346-00A)
10
Optical
Table 6. Optical Characteristics.
Luminance
Lon (areal), min
Lon (areal), typ
Loff (areal), max
120 cd/m²
150 cd/m²
0.3 cd/m²
screen center, maximum frame rate
screen center, maximum frame rate
5 points: center plus four corners measured
1.0 ±0.25" from adjacent bezel edges, @ 120 Hz
Non-uniformity
All pixels fully lit 35% Maximum difference two of five points, using the
formula:
BNU%=[1- (min_lum/max_lum)] x 100%
Luminance Variation (Temperature)
Maximum ±25% Across operating temperature range
Luminance Variation (Time)
Maximum <20%
10,000 hours at 25°C ambient
Viewing Angle
Minimum >160°in all directions; no contrast or luminance change
Contrast Ratio (typical)
90:1
8:1
@ 500 lux ambient, maximum frame rate
@ 10,000 lux ambient, maximum frame rate
Environmental
Table 7. Environmental Characteristics.
Temperature*
Operating -40°C to +85°C
Operating Survival -40°C to +95°C
Storage -40°C to +105°C
Humidity
Non-condensing,
operating
93% RH max at +40°C, per IEC 68-2-3
Condensing,
non-operating
95% RH max at +55°C, per IEC 68-2-30
Altitude
Operating/non-operating 0 to 18 km (58k ft) per IEC 68-2-13
Vibration
Random
Operating/non-operating
0.02 g2/Hz, ASD level, 5-500 Hz
per IEC 68-2-36, test Fdb.
Shock
Operating/non-operating 100 g, 6 ms, half sine wave per
IEC 68-2-27, test Ea.
* Temperature sensor is built in to provide power cut-off in case of over heating.
Note: Power cut-off is not operative in Selftest.

EL320.240.36-HB Operations Manual (020-0346-00A) 11
Reliability
The display MTBF is to be greater than 50,000 hours at 120 Hz with a 90%
confidence level at 25°C.
Safety and EMI Performance
The display will not inhibit the end product from obtaining these certifications:
IEC 950, IEC 601-1-1, UL2601, CSA 22.2 #601-M89, FCC Docket, Part 15, Subpart
J, Class B; CISPR22, Class B; and VDE 871/VFG243 Class B.
Optional Features
Conformal coating and anti-glare filters are available as an option.
Mechanical Characteristics
Table 8. Mechanical Characteristics.
Display External Dimensions
millimeters (inches)
without locking connector
with locking connector
width 148.1 (5.83)
height 104.7 (4.12)
depth 20 (0.8)
Weight (typical) 183 g (6.3 oz)
Fill Factor 74%
Display Active Area
millimeters (inches)
width 115.1 (4.5)
height 86.3 (3.40)
Pixel Size
millimeters (inches)
width 0.31 (0.012)
height 0.31 (0.012)
Pixel Pitch
millimeters (inches)
width 0.36 (0.014)
height 0.36 (0.014)
Component Envelope
The component envelope shown in Figure 4 illustrates the distance
components extend behind the display. Tall components do not necessarily fill
this area. Planar reserves the right to relocate components
within the
constraints of the component envelope without prior customer notification.
For this reason, Planar advises users to design enclosure components to be
outside the component envelope.
Device designers will need to consider their specific system requirements to
determine the spacing necessary to maintain the specified ambient
temperature.
Air flow and surrounding component materials will affect the depth of
the air gap.

EL320.240.36-HB Operations Manual (020-0346-00A)
12
32x42 slot
ø3.5 [ø0.14]
(2 PL)
ø3.2[0.13]
13.4
[0.53]±0.3
3.1
[0.12]
73.5 [2.89]
Pin 1
59 [2.32]
Pin 1
Active Area 115.2 [4.53]
142 [5.59]
148.1 [5.83]
ActiveArea86.4[3.40]
58.0[2.28]
47.3[1.86]
4.1
[0.16]
5.1±0.3
[0.2]
20
[0.79]
8
[0.31]
133.7
[5.26] 4.2 [0.17]
To front of glass
16
[0.06]
Component Envelope
96.5[3.80]
104.7[4.12]
Front View
To
p
View
Side Vie
w
Dimensions in are millimeters; inches in brackets.
Tolerances unless specified
.x
± 0.50 [0.02]
.xx
± 0.25 [0.01]
Figure 4. Display Dimensions.
Note: Please refer to www.planar.com/support to view the mechanical outline drawing.

EL320.240.36-HB Operations Manual (020-0346-00A) 13
Description of Warranty
Seller warrants that the Goods will conform to published specifications and be free from defects in
material for 12 months from delivery. To the extent that Goods incorporate third-party-owned
software, Seller shall pass on Seller's licensor's warranty to Buyer subject to the terms and conditions
of Seller's license.
Warranty repairs shall be warranted for the remainder of the original warranty period. Buyer shall
report defect claims in writing to Seller immediately upon discovery, and in any event, within the
warranty period. Buyer must return Goods to Seller within 30 days of Seller’s receipt of a warranty
claim notice and only after receiving Seller’s Return Goods Authorization. Seller shall, at its sole
option, repair or replace the Goods.
If Goods were repaired, altered or modified by persons other than Seller, this warranty is void.
Conditions resulting from normal wear and tear and Buyer's failure to properly store, install, operate,
handle or maintain the Goods are not within this warranty. Repair or replacement of Goods is
Seller’s sole obligation and Buyer's exclusive remedy for all claims of defects. If that remedy is
adjudicated insufficient, Seller shall refund Buyer's paid price for the Goods and have no other
liability to Buyer.
All warranty repairs must be performed at Seller’s authorized service center using parts approved by
Seller. Buyer shall pay costs of sending Goods to Seller on a warranty claim and Seller shall pay costs
of returning Goods to Buyer. The turnaround time on repairs will usually be 30 working days or less.
Seller accepts no added liability for additional days for repair or replacement.
If Seller offers technical support relating to the Goods, such support shall neither modify the
warranty nor create an obligation of Seller. Buyer is not relying on Seller’s skill or judgment to select
Goods for Buyer’s purposes. Seller’s software, if included with Goods, is sold as is, and this warranty
is inapplicable to such software.
SELLER DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED
TO, IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
Ordering Information
Product Part Number Description
EL320.240.36-HB 996-0292-00 5.6" (142 mm) diagonal, quarter VGA high-bright
display, -40 to +85°C operating temperature
Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.
Planar Systems continues to provide optional, and in many cases custom, features to address the
specific customer requirements. Consult Planar Sales for pricing, lead time and minimum quantity
requirements.

EL320.240.36-HB Operations Manual (020-0346-00A)
14
Support and Service
Planar is a U.S. company based in Beaverton, Oregon and Espoo, Finland, with a world-wide sales
distribution network. Full application engineering support and service are available to make the
integration of Planar displays as simple and quick as possible for our customers.
RMA Procedure: For a
Returned Material Authorization number, please contact Planar Systems, Inc.
with the model number(s) and serial number(s). When returning goods for repair, please include a
brief description of the problem, and mark the outside of the shipping container with the RMA
number.

Planar Systems, Inc.
Customer Service
24x7 Online Technical Support: http://www.planar.com/support
Americas Support
1195 NW Compton Drive
Beaverton, OR 97006-1992
Tel: 1-866-PLANAR1 [phone]
Hours: M-F, 5am - 5pm Pacific Time
Europe and Asia-Pacific Support
Olarinluoma 9 P.O. Box 46
FIN-02201 Espoo, Finland
Tel: [phone]
Hours: M-F, 7:00am - 4pm CET
© 2004 Planar Systems, Inc. 06/04 Planar is a registered trademark of Planar Systems, Inc.
ICE, ICEBrite, and ICEPlus are trademarks of Planar Systems, Inc.
Other brands and names are the property of their respective owners.
Technical information in this document is subject to change without notice.
020-0346-00A