Patent ID: 6054973
Filing Date: 2000-04-25
Classification: G09G

Abstract:
A method of addressing a matrix array bistable device in which a matrix of pixels is addressable by a first set of electrode tracks on one side of the matrix and a second set of electrode tracks on the other side of the matrix, the first and second sets of electrode tracks crossing one another at the locations of the pixels, the method comprising:applying data pulses to the first set of electrode tracks,applying strobe pulses to the second set of electrode tracks to switch certain pixels selected by the data pulses, during select periods for each of the pixels defined by simultaneous application of a data pulse and a strobe pulse to the pixel, from a first state to a second state under the effect of the electric field produced by the voltage difference between the data pulses and the strobe pulses, andapplying blanking pulses to the second set of electrode tracks to set the pixels to the first state in advance of the application of subsequent strobe pulses during the select periods to switch selected pixels from the first state to the second state, each blanking pulse being applied between successive select periods for each of the pixels and including a blanking portion of one polarity adapted to switch the pixels to a fully switched region of the first state and a trailing portion of the opposite polarity adapted to assist relaxation of the pixels, in advance of a subsequent select period, from the fully switched region of the first state to a relaxed region of the first state from which rapid switching of pixels to the second state is possible during application of the subsequent strobe pulse.