Driving circuit for electro-optical panel and driving method thereof, electro-optical device, and electronic apparatus having electro-optical device

A driving circuit for an electro-optical panel, in which a plurality of pixel portions are provided in an image display region, has a plurality of power supply lines that are respectively supplied with a plurality of power supplies having different potentials from a power supply circuit, a shift register that outputs transfer signals defining timings at which image signals are supplied to the plurality of pixel portions, a level shifter that is connected to at least one power supply line and another power supply line supplied with different potentials among the plurality of power supply lines and that increases the voltage levels of the output transfer signals by using the power supplies having the different potentials supplied through the one power supply line and another power supply line, and an electrostatic protecting circuit having a diode that is provided between the one power supply line and another power supply line and that forms an electrical path to release static electricity applied to one of the one power supply line and another power supply line to the other.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Technical Field

The present invention relates to a driving circuit for an electro-optical panel such as an organic EL panel and a driving method thereof, an electro-optical device having the driving circuit of the electro-optical panel, and an electronic apparatus having the electro-optical device.

2. Related Art

A driving circuit for an electro-optical panel such as an organic electroluminescent (EL) panel is incorporated into a substrate of the electro-optical panel so as to serve as an internal circuit for driving scanning lines or data lines by using externally supplied power, or is attached later to the substrate so as to function as an external IC circuit. Such a driving circuit may be deteriorated or broken for various reasons. In particular, a problem is breakdown caused by the stress of electrostatic discharge, that is, electrostatic breakdown, which occurs while the electro-optical device is assembled or transported. At the time of the assembling process, static electricity is generated around the driving circuit or the electro-optical device. When the static electricity is applied to wiring lines-connected to the driving circuit, the driving circuit is deteriorated or broken.

Accordingly, in order to prevent the deterioration and breakdown of the driving circuit due to the static electricity, a protecting circuit is provided in a signal path through which a signal is input/output in the driving circuit (for example, see Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication Nos. 10-294383 and 2003-308050). Specifically, the protecting circuit is provided as an input protecting circuit for an input terminal, to which various signals including clock signals, inversion clock signals, and start pulses are input from the outside of the driving circuit. Alternatively, the protecting circuit is provided as an output protecting circuit for an output terminal, through which various signals including scanning signals and end pulses are output to the outside of the driving circuit.

In addition, a technique in which, in an insulating gate-type transistor circuit device, static electricity accumulated in a circuit portion, which is in a floating state, is effectively discharged so as to prevent the breakdown of an element due to the static electricity is proposed (for example, see Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2000-98338).

In the driving circuit for the organic EL panel, a protecting diode is provided at the outside of the driving circuit as a countermeasure against static electricity which penetrates into the driving circuit from the outside. In this case, however, it is difficult to release the static electricity generated at the inside of the driving circuit to the outside of the driving circuit. For example, in a process of forming power supply lines to supply power in order to drive a level shifter, a shift register, or a buffer included in the driving circuit, when resist is removed after the power supply lines are patterned, static electricity may be generated at the power supply lines. The static electricity may cause electrostatic breakdown of the level shifter included and the buffer connected to the level shifter in the driving circuit. This may result in a lowering of the yield in a process of manufacturing the organic EL panel.

SUMMARY

An advantage of the invention is that it provides a driving circuit and a driving method for an electro-optical panel which are capable of preventing electrostatic breakdown of a driving circuit for an electro-optical panel, an electro-optical device having the driving circuit, and an electronic apparatus having the electro-optical device.

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a driving circuit for an electro-optical panel in which a plurality of pixel portions are provided in an image display region. The driving circuit for an electro-optical panel includes a plurality of power supply lines that are respectively supplied with a plurality of power supplies having different potentials from a power supply circuit, a shift register that outputs transfer signals defining timings when image signals are supplied to the plurality of pixel portions, a level shifter that is connected to at least one power supply line and another power supply line supplied with different potentials among the plurality of power supply lines and that increases the voltage levels of the output transfer signals by using the power supplies having the different potentials supplied through the one power supply line and the other power supply line, and an electrostatic protecting circuit having a diode that is provided between the one power supply line and the other power supply line and that forms an electrical path to release static electricity applied to one of the one power supply line and the other power supply line to the other.

According to the first aspect of the invention, when the driving circuit of the electro-optical panel is operated, various signals to drive the electro-optical panel are transferred from the shift register at predetermined timings. The level shifter shifts the voltage levels of various signals transferred from the shift register and outputs them as the transfer signals. The driving circuit supplies the image signals to the electro-optical panel through the data lines according to the transfer signals and drives the electro-optical panel. At this time, the driving circuit has the one power supply line and the other power supply line to supply the different potentials to the level shifter, and the level shifter is driven by using the power supplies supplied through the two power supply line.

In this case, the electrostatic protecting circuit has the diode that is provided between the one power supply line and the other power supply line. The electrostatic protecting circuit forms an electrical path that releases the static electricity applied to one of the one power supply line and the other power supply line to the other. Therefore, at the time of manufacturing an electro-optical device in which the driving circuit is built in the electro-optical panel or the driving circuit is attached to the outside of the electro-optical panel, even though a relatively high voltage is generated due to static electricity between the one power supply line and the other power supply line, it is possible to suppress electrostatic breakdown of the level shifter due to the static electricity by releasing the static electricity through the current path. For example, when assembling or transporting the electro-optical panel, or when the electro-optical panel is operated, it is possible to prevent the electrostatic breakdown of the level shifter due to the static electricity generated in the driving circuit.

In addition, since the electrostatic breakdown of the level shifter can be suppressed, the electrostatic breakdown of the shift register or the like electrically connected to the level shifter can be suppressed. Therefore, it is possible to protect the overall driving circuit from the static electricity.

According to the first aspect of the invention, it is preferable that the driving circuit include a data line driving circuit that supplies the image signals to the pixel portions through signal lines provided in the electro-optical panel according to the transfer signals having increased voltages and that drives the electro-optical panel.

In this case, since a driving frequency is higher than that of a scanning line driving circuit, it is possible to protect the level shifter or shift register with respect to the data line driving circuit, in which the level shifter is suitably used, from the static electricity.

According to the first aspect of the invention, it is preferable that the electro-optical panel is a current-driven electro-optical panel, and the data line driving circuit samples or latches the image signals according to the transfer signals having increased voltages and supplies the sampled or latched image signals to the signal lines.

In this case, it is important that an image signal having a relatively large current is supplied in order to drive the current-driven electro-optical panel. In order to sample or latch the image signal, a large-scaled switch such as a TFT having a relatively large size is used. In addition, in order to control the large-scaled switch, the level shifter amplifies the voltage of the transfer signal. As such, according to the transfer signal having the increased voltage, the image signal is sampled or latched by the large-scaled switch and is supplied to the signal line. Therefore, by amplifying the voltage of the transfer signal to sample or latch the image signal, the image signal having sufficient current is supplied. As a result, it is possible to favorably drive the current-driven electro-optical panel.

In addition, according to the first aspect of the invention, it is preferable that the driving circuit include a scanning line driving circuit that uses the transfer signals having increased voltages as scanning signals, supplies the scanning signals to the pixel portions through a plurality of scanning lines provided in the electro-optical panel, and drives the electro-optical panel.

In this case, it is possible to protect the level shifter and the shift register with respect to the scanning line driving circuit, that outputs the transfer signals to the scanning signals, from the static electricity.

According to the first aspect of the invention, it is preferable that the electro-optical panel is an organic EL panel.

In this case, a driving current that causes the organic EL panel to emit light can be sufficiently supplied. Specifically, since the voltage level of the transfer signal is shifted by the shift register, it is possible to shift the voltage level of the image signal supplied to the organic EL panel according to the transfer signal and to allow a large current according to the image signal to flow in the organic EL element included in the pixel which the organic EL panel has. Therefore, it is possible to sufficiently ensure the light-emitting amount of the organic EL element and to improve image quality of the organic EL panel.

According to the first aspect of the invention, it is preferable that a plurality of diodes are connected in parallel between the one power supply line and the other power supply line.

In this case, when there is some inconsistency at any of the plurality of diodes connected in parallel between the one power supply line and the other power supply line, it is possible to form the current path through other diodes, except for the diode in which the inconsistency occurs. Therefore, it is possible to reliably discharge the static electricity generated at the power supply lines through the current path and to prevent the driving circuit from being broken due to the static electricity.

According to the first aspect of the invention, it is preferable that the electrostatic protecting circuit is provided for each stage of the level shifter.

In this case, it is possible to discharge the static electricity generated at the power supply line near the level shifter and to reliably protect the respective stages of the level shifter from the static electricity.

According to the first aspect of the invention, it is preferable that the electrostatic protecting circuit is provided for every plural stages of the level shifter.

In this case, the diode is provided for every plural stages of the level shifter, and thus the number of the diodes can be reduced as compared to the case in which the diode is provided for each stage of the level shifter. When the number of the diodes is reduced, in the one power supply line and another supply line, the current path is formed by the diode provided for every plural stages of the level shifter, and thus it is possible to discharge the static electricity generated at the power supply lines through the current path. In addition, by reducing the number of the diodes, it is possible to improve the durability of the electro-optical panel and to reduce a manufacturing cost of the electro-optical panel.

According to the first aspect of the invention, it is preferable that the driving circuit of the electro-optical panel further includes a buffer that is connected to an output side of the level shifter and that is connected to the one power supply line and another power supply line to buffer the transfer signals having the increased voltages by using the power supplies having the different potentials.

In this case, it is possible to arrange a waveform or output timing of the transfer signal by the buffer and to supply the transfer signal more reliably.

According to the first aspect of the invention, it is preferable that the one power supply line and the other power supply line include at least one of a highest power supply line to supply a power supply having a highest potential and a lowest power supply line to supply a power supply having a lowest potential among the plurality of power supply lines. The electrical path includes at least one of a path passing through the highest power supply line and a path passing through the lowest power supply line.

In this case, the electrostatic protecting circuit maintains the potential on the corresponding power supply line at a potential equal to or less than that of the power supply having the highest potential or a potential equal to or more than that of the power supply having the lowest potential among the power supplies supplied from the power supply circuit. Therefore, when the corresponding driving circuit is operated, it is possible to maintain the potentials on the plurality of power supply lines with the potential equal to of less than that of the power supply having the highest potential and the potential equal to or more than that of the power supply having the lowest potential.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a driving circuit having an electronic circuit that has a plurality of unit circuits, a power supply line that commonly supplies power to the plurality of unit circuits, a power input line that connects from the power supply line to each of the plurality of unit circuits, and a protecting circuit that is provided on the power input line.

In this case, when assembling or transporting the electro-optical panel or when the electro-optical panel is operated, it is possible to prevent electrostatic breakdown of the plurality of unit circuits due to the static electricity generated in the driving circuit.

According to the second aspect of the invention, it is preferable that the driving circuit is a driving circuit for an electro-optical panel in which a plurality of pixel portions are provided in an image display region, the power supply lines have at least one power supply line and another power supply line which supply different potentials, respectively, and the unit circuit include a shift register that outputs transfer signals defining timings at which image signals are supplied to the plurality of pixel portions and a level shifter that increases the voltage levels of the output transfer signals by using the power supplies having the different potentials.

In this case, since the electrostatic breakdown of the level shifter can be suppressed, the electrostatic breakdown of the shift register electrically connected to the level shifter can be suppressed. As a result, it is possible to protect the overall driving circuit from the static electricity.

According to the second aspect of the invention, it is preferable that the driving circuit includes a data line driving circuit that supplies the image signals to the pixel portions through signal lines provided in the electro-optical panel according to the transfer signals having increased voltages and that drives the electro-optical panel.

In this case, since a driving frequency is higher than that of a scanning line driving circuit, it is possible to protect the level shifter or shift register with respect to the data line driving circuit, in which the level shifter is suitably used, from the static electricity.

According to the second aspect of the invention, it is preferable that the electro-optical panel is a current-driven electro-optical panel, and the data line driving circuit samples or latches the image signals according to the transfer signals having the increases voltages and supplies the sampled or latched image signals to the signal lines.

In this case, by amplifying the voltage of the transfer signal to sample or latch the image signal, the image signal having the sufficient current is supplied, so that it is possible to favorably drive the current-driven electro-optical panel.

According to the second aspect of the invention, it is preferable that the driving circuit includes a scanning line driving circuit that uses the transfer signals having increased voltages as scanning signals, supplies the scanning signals to the pixel portions through a plurality of scanning lines provided in the electro-optical panel, and drive the electro-optical panel.

In this case, it is possible to protect the level shifter and the shift register with respect to the scanning line driving circuit, that outputs the transfer signal as the scanning signal, from the static electricity.

According to the second aspect of the invention, it is preferable that the electro-optical panel is an organic EL panel.

In this case, it is possible to sufficiently ensure the light-emitting amount of the organic EL element and to improve image quality of the organic EL panel.

According to the second aspect of the invention, it is preferable that the protecting circuit is a diode.

In this case, since the static electricity generated at the power supply line is reliably discharged through the current path, the electrostatic breakdown of the driving circuit by the static electricity can be suppressed.

According to the second aspect of the invention, the protecting circuit is provided for each stage of the level shifter.

In this case, since the static electricity generated at the power supply line near the level shifter can be discharged through the diode arranged near the level shifter, the respective stages of the level shifter can be reliably protected from the static electricity.

According to the second aspect of the invention, it is preferable that the protecting circuit is provided for every plural stages of the level shifter.

In this case, even though the number of the diodes is reduced, in the one power supply line and another power supply line, the current path is formed by the diode provided for every plural stages of the shift register. As a result, it is possible to discharge the static electricity generated at the power supply lines through the current path.

According to the second aspect of the invention, it is preferable that the driving circuit further includes a buffer that is connected to an output side of the level shifter and that is connected to the one power supply line and another power supply line to buffer the transfer signals having increased voltages by using the power supplies having the different potentials.

In this case, it is possible to arrange a waveform or output timing of the transfer signal by the buffer and to supply the transfer signal more reliably.

According to the second aspect of the invention, it is preferable that the one power supply line and another power supply line include at least one of a highest power supply line to supply a power supply having a highest potential and a lowest power supply line to supply a power supply having a lowest potential among the plurality of power supply lines, and the electrical path formed by the protecting circuit include at least one of a path passing through the highest power supply line and a path passing through the lowest power supply line.

In this case, when the driving circuit is operated, it is possible to maintain the potentials on the plurality of power supply lines at a potential equal to or less than that of the power supply having the highest potential and at a potential equal to or more than that of the power supply having the lowest potential.

According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of driving an electro-optical panel in which a plurality of pixel portions are provided in an image display region. The method includes supplying a plurality of power supplies having different potentials from a power supply circuit to a plurality of power supply lines, respectively, outputting transfer signals defining timings when image signals are supplied to the plurality of pixel portions by a shift register, increasing the voltage levels of the output transfer signals by using a power supply having the different potentials supplied through the one power supply line and another power supply line by a level shifter connected to at least the one power supply line and the other power supply line supplied with different potentials among the plurality of power supply lines, and forming an electrical path to release static electricity applied to one of the one power supply line and the other power supply line to the other by a diode which is provided between the one power supply line and another power supply line.

According to the third aspect of the invention, similar to the driving circuit of the above-described electro-optical panel, by releasing the static electricity through the electrical path, the electrostatic breakdown of the level shifter can be effectively suppressed.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided an electro-optical device having the above-described driving circuit for an electro-optical panel and the electro-optical panel.

According to the fourth aspect of the invention, since the electrostatic breakdown of the driving circuit due to the static electricity generated at the power supply line can be suppressed, it is possible to improve the durability of the electro-optical device. In addition, it is possible to improve the yield of the electro-optical device in a manufacturing process and to reduce the cost of the electro-optical device.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention, there is provided an electronic apparatus having the above-described electro-optical device.

Since the electronic apparatus has the above-described electro-optical device, the electronic apparatus has a high yield, operates without troubles, and realizes high quality display. As the electronic apparatus, various electronic apparatuses such as a projection-type display device, a liquid crystal television, a cellular phone, an electronic organizer, a word processor, a viewfinder-type or monitor-direct-view-type video tape recorder, a workstation, a video phone, a POS terminal, a touch panel or the like may be exemplified. Further, the electronic apparatuses may include a liquid crystal device, an organic EL display device, and a display device using an electron emission element (Field Emission Display and Surface-Conduction Electron-Emitter Display), as well as an electrophoretic device such as an electronic paper.

The operations and other advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following embodiments.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Embodiments of the invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following embodiments, a driving circuit of an electro-optical panel according to the invention is applied to a TFT active matrix driving-type organic EL display device.

First Embodiment

Configuration of Organic EL Display Device

First, the overall configuration of an organic EL display device according to a first embodiment and the configuration of each pixel will be described with reference toFIGS. 1 and 2.FIG. 1is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of the organic EL display device according the first embodiment of the invention andFIG. 2is a block diagram showing the configuration of each pixel.

InFIG. 1, an organic EL display device1which is an example of ‘an electro-optical device’ according to the invention mainly includes an organic EL panel100which is an example of ‘an electro-optical panel’ according to the invention, a driving circuit120which is an example of a driving circuit for ‘an electro-optical panel’ according to the invention, an image signal processing circuit300, a timing generator400, and a power supply circuit500.

The organic EL panel100includes switching transistors76which function as switching elements for switching pixels and which are formed on an image display region110of an element substrate, driving transistors74, and organic EL elements72formed on the element substrate. The organic EL elements72are arranged such that a cathode, an electron transporting layer, a light-emitting layer, a hole transporting layer, a transparent electrode, and a glass plate overlap one another. A counter substrate located at a side where light generated at the organic EL element is emitted may be made of a glass plate. Each of pixel portions70included in the organic EL panel100is connected to a current supply line117. In addition, when the driving transistor74is turned on, the pixel portion is supplied with a driving current for driving the organic EL element72through the corresponding current supply line117.

The timing generator400outputs various timing signals used for the respective elements of the organic EL panel100. With a timing signal output unit which is a portion of the timing generator400, a dot clock which is a clock of a minimum unit and which scans each pixel is created. In addition, a Y clock signal YCK, an inversion Y clock signal YCKB, an X clock signal XCK, an inversion X clock signal XCKB, a Y transfer start pulse DY, and an X transfer start pulse DX are generated on the basis of the dot clock.

When input image data is input from the outside, the image signal processing circuit300generates an image signal based on input image data. The image signal is latched or sampled by a latch circuit included in the data line driving circuit150and is supplied to the organic EL panel100through an image signal supply line L1. In the present embodiment, for convenience of explanation, one image signal supply line is provided. However, the invention is not limited thereto. For example, the organic EL elements for emitting light components corresponding to the respective colors of R, G, and B may be formed in the pixels, respectively, and a plurality of signal supply lines for supplying, as image signals, an R signal, a G signal, and a B signal corresponding to the respective colors of R, G, and B may be provided. In this case, three image signal supply lines may be provided and the pixels corresponding to the respective colors may be supplied with the image signals from the three image signal supply lines. Further, current supply lines which supply the driving current to the organic EL elements that emit the light component corresponding to the respective colors of R, G, and B may be provided for the organic EL elements that emit light components corresponding to the respective colors of R, G, and B, respectively.

The power supply circuit500generates a plurality of power supplies having different potentials to supply them to the organic EL panel100.

In the present embodiment, the organic EL panel100is an organic EL panel having an internal driving circuit. The driving circuit120is constructed on the element substrate. Here, the driving circuit120is an example of ‘a driving circuit’ according to the invention and includes a scanning line driving circuit130and a data line driving circuit150. Preferably, the driving circuit120is provided on a peripheral region of the element substrate together with various elements such as the switching transistors76and the driving transistors74with respect to the pixels provided in the image display region110. However, such a driving circuit may be at least partially constructed as an external IC and may be provided later on the peripheral region.

In addition, the organic EL panel100has data lines114and scanning lines112which are arranged on the image display region110occupying a central portion of the element substrate in the vertical and horizontal directions, respectively. The data line114and the scanning line112are electrically connected to the driving transistor74to allow the driving current to flow in the organic EL element72included in each pixel portion70, which is provided to correspond to an intersection of the data line114and the scanning line112, and the switching transistor76that turns on/off the corresponding driving transistor74. In addition, in the present embodiment, the total number of scanning lines112is m (where m is a natural number equal to or more than two) and the total number of data lines114is n (where n is a natural number equal to or more than two).

The data line driving circuit150sequentially supplies the image signal supplied from the image signal supply line L1to the respective data lines114.

The scanning line driving circuit130supplies the scanning signal to each row of the pixel portions70arranged in a matrix shape.

InFIG. 2, the pixel portion70includes the organic EL element72serving as the display element, the driving transistor74for supplying the driving current to the corresponding organic EL element72, and the switching transistor76for turning on/off the driving transistor74.

A source electrode of the switching transistor76is electrically connected to the data line114that is supplied with the image signal from the data line driving circuit150. On the other hand, a gate electrode of the switching transistor76is electrically connected to the scanning line112that is supplied with a scanning signal described later. A drain electrode of the switching transistor76is connected to a storage capacitor78. The respective pixel portions70are arranged in a matrix shape to correspond to the intersections of the scanning lines112and the data lines114.

The scanning line112is electrically connected to the gate electrode of the switching transistor76and the data line114is electrically connected to the source electrode of the switching transistor. The current supply line117is connected to the source electrode of the driving transistor74and the storage capacitor78.

The storage capacitor78is electrically connected to the gate electrode of the driving transistor76and applies a voltage according to the data signal, which is supplied to the pixel portion70through the data line114, to the gate electrode of the driving transistor74.

A source electrode of the driving transistor74is electrically connected to the current supply line117. The driving transistor74is turned on/off according to the voltage applied to the gate electrode of the driving transistor74. As a result, the driving transistor74allows the driving current to flow in the organic EL element72from the current supply line117.

In addition to the configuration of the pixel circuit exemplified inFIGS. 1 and 2, various types of pixel circuits, such as a current-programmed pixel circuit, a voltage-programmed pixel circuit, a voltage comparison-type pixel circuit, and a subframe-type pixel circuit, each having a plurality of TFTs (for example, four) and a plurality of capacitors, may be employed.

Configuration of Data Line Driving Circuit

Next, the detailed configuration of the data line driving circuit150in the pixel circuit120will be described with reference toFIGS. 3 and 4.FIG. 3is a block diagram showing the configuration of the data line driving circuit150andFIG. 4is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an X-side level shifter152.

InFIGS. 3 and 4, essential parts of the data line driving circuit150are an X-side shift register151, an X-side level shifter152, an X-side buffer156, and a latch or sampling circuit201.

An X clock signal XCK, an inversion X clock signal XCKB, and an X transfer start pulse DX are input from the timing generator400to an X-side shift register151. When the X transfer start pulse DX is input, the X-side shift register151sequentially generates X-side transfer pulses XP1, XP2, XP3, . . . , XPn−1, and XPn in synchronization with the X clock signal XCK and the inversion X clock signal XCKB and supplies them to an X-side level shifter152. The X-side shift register151is formed over n stages so as to correspond to the n data lines114, and the X-side transfer pulses XP1, XP2, XP3, . . . , XPn−1, and XPn are sequentially output from the respective stages in a direction from a first stage to an n-th stage. In addition, from a final stage of the X-side shifter register151, the X-side transfer pulse XPn is also output as an X-side end pulse XEP of the X-side shift register151.

The latch or sampling circuit201latches or samples the image signals supplied from the image signal processing circuit at timings at which the X-side driving signals X1, X2, X3, . . . , Xn−1, and Xn are output from the X-side level shifter152, respectively. In such a manner, the latched or sampled image signals are sequentially supplied from the data line driving circuit150to the data lines114.

In addition, as described later with reference toFIG. 4, each stage of the X-side level shifter152is shown as a voltage amplifying circuit152a(j) (j=1, 2, . . . , n) which shifts a voltage level of each of the X-side transfer pulses XP1, XP2, XP3, . . . , XPn−1, and XPn input to the respective stages.

The X-side buffer156arranges the waveforms of the X-side driving signals X1, X2, X3, . . . , Xn−1, and Xn output from the X-side level shifter152and supplies them to the latch circuit or sampling circuit201. Each stage of the X-side buffer156is shown as a buffer circuit156a(j) (j=1, 2, . . . , and n) which is connected to the voltage amplifying circuit152a(j).

As power supplies for driving the data line driving circuit150, there are four power supplies supplied from the power supply circuit500shown inFIG. 1(a first X-side power supply VHHX, a second X-side power supply VDDX, a third X-side power supply VSSX, and a fourth X-side power supply VLLX). The four power supplies supplied from the power supply circuit500are supplied to the data line driving circuit150through an X-side power supply line group510aincluding a first X-side power supply line501a, a second X-side power supply line502a, a third X-side power supply line503a, and a fourth X-side power supply line504a. In addition, the four power supplies are in an ascending order of the first X-side power supply VHHX, the second X-side power supply VDDX, the third X-side power supply VSSX, and the fourth X-side power supply VLLX. The manners which associate the four power supplies to the four power supply lines for power supplies are different from one another according to the design of the driving circuit.

The X-side shift register151is electrically connected to the first X-side power supply line501aand the second X-side power supply line502a. Therefore, each of the X-side transfer pulses XP1, XP2, XP3, . . . , XPn−1, and XPn has a voltage between the potentials of the power supplies supplied from the first X-side power supply line501aand the second X-side power supply line502a, respectively. In the present embodiment, for example, the firs X-side power supply line501asupplies the second X-side power supply VDDX and the second X-side power supply line502asupplies the third X-side power supply VSSX. Specifically, each voltage of the X-side transfer pulses XP1, XP2, XP3, . . . , XPn−1, and XPn is a voltage between potentials of the second X-side power supply VDDX and third X-side power supply VSSX.

As described in detail later, the power supplies supplied from the first X-side power supply line501aand second X-side power supply line502amay be power supplies having different potentials among the four power supplies. For example, there is a case that the first X-side power supply line501asupplies the first X-side power supply VHHX and the second X-side power supply line502asupplies the second X-side power supply VDDX. However, the power supplies supplied from the first X-side power supply line501aand the second X-side power supply line502aare determined while considering the combination with the power supply for driving the voltage amplifying circuit152a(j) (j=1, 2, . . . , and n) included in the X-side level shifter152.

The X-side level shifter152is driven by the power supplies supplied from the third X-side power supply line503aand the fourth X-side power supply line504aamong the power supplies supplied from the power supply circuit500. The voltages of the X-side transfer pulses XP1, XP2, XP3, . . . , XPn−1, and XPn are shifted to voltage levels between the potentials of the third and fourth X-side power supply lines503aand504aand are output as the X-side driving signals X1, X2, X3, . . . , Xn−1, and Xn. In the present embodiment, for example, the third X-side power supply line503asupplies the second X-side power supply VDDX and the fourth X-side power supply line504asupplies the fourth X-side power supply VLLX. Specifically, the voltages of the X-side transfer pulses XP1, XP2, XP3, . . . , XPn−1, and XPn are shifted from voltages between the potentials of the second X-side power supply VDDX and the third X-side power supply VSSX to voltages between the potentials of the second X-side power supply VDDX and the fourth X-side power supply VLLX and are output as the X-side driving signals X1, X2, X3, Xn−1, and Xn.

In addition, a diode158(j) (j=1, 2, . . . , and n) is provided for each voltage amplifying circuit152a(j) constituting the X-side level shifter152. In the present embodiment, the third X-side power supply line503awhich is an example of ‘one power supply line’ according to the invention supplies the second X-side power supply VDDX and the fourth X-side power supply line504awhich is an example if ‘the power supply lines’ according to the invention supplies the fourth X-side power supply VLLX. As a result, the diode158(j) and the voltage amplifying circuit152a(j) are connected in parallel between the third and fourth X-side power supply lines503aand504awhich supply the power supplies to drive the X-side level shifter152.

The X-side buffer156a(j) constituting each stage of the X-side buffer156is driven by the power supplies supplied through the third and fourth X-side power supply lines503aand504a, similarly to the voltage amplifying circuit152a(j). In the present embodiment, the third X-side power supply line503asupplies the second X-side power supply VDD and the fourth X-side power supply line504asupplies the fourth X-side power supply VLLX. Therefore, the X-side buffer156a(j) is also driven by the second and fourth X-side power supplies VDDX and VLLX, similarly to the voltage amplifying circuit152a(j).

The diode158a(j) is provided between the third and fourth X-side power supply lines503aand504aand forms a current path159(j) (j=1, 2, . . . , and n) through which static electricity generated at one of the third and fourth X-side power supply lines503aand504ais released into other power supply lines. By providing the current path159(j), electrostatic breakdown of the amplifying circuit152a(j) and the buffer156a(j) included in the X-side level shifter152due to the static electricity generated at one power supply line of the third and fourth X-side power supply lines503aand504acan be prevented.

In the present embodiment, the plurality of diodes158a(j) are provided in parallel between the third and the fourth X-side power supply lines503aand504a. As a result, even if static electricity is generated at the power supply line located near the voltage amplifying circuit152a(j) constituting each stage of the X-side level shifter152, it is possible to discharge the static electricity fast via the current path159(j) (j=1, 2, . . . , and n) formed by the plurality of diodes158a(j). Specifically, the current path159(j) corresponds to ‘an electrostatic protecting circuit’ according to the invention.

In addition, the diode158a(j) is not provided in the X-side level shifter152and is included in the X-side inter-power supply protecting circuit155. Specifically,FIG. 4shows an electrical connection state between the diode158a(j) and the voltage amplifying circuit152a(j), and the diode158a(j) is provided at the outside of the X-side level shifter152. When an inconsistency is generated at one diode among the plurality of diodes156a(j) which are connected in parallel between the third and fourth X-side power supply lines503aand504a, the current path is ensured by other diodes, thereby suppressing the electrostatic breakdown of the X-side level shifter152. In addition, since the electrostatic breakdown of the X-side level shifter152can be suppressed, the electrostatic breakdown of the X-side shift register151which is electrically connected to the X-side level shifter152can be suppressed. As a result, it is possible to protect the overall data line driving circuit150from the static electricity.

In the present embodiment, the diodes158a(j) are provided so as to correspond to the voltage amplifying circuits152a(j), respectively. However, the diode constituting the current path may be provided so as to correspond to a voltage amplifying circuit group having the plurality of voltage amplifying circuits152a(j). Even if an inconsistency is generated at the diode which is provided in parallel to one voltage amplifying circuit group, it is possible to release the static electricity generated at the power supply line through other diodes which are provided in parallel to other voltage amplifying circuits. According to this configuration, the number of the diodes can be reduced as compared to the case in which the diode158a(j) is provided for each voltage amplifying circuit152a(j). In addition, the current path can be ensured.

In the organic EL display device1, when the organic EL panel100is assembled or transported, that is, when the organic EL panel100is in a non-operation state or in an operation state with power supplied, there is a case in which static electricity is generated at the driving circuit120or various wiring lines connected to the driving circuit120. When the static electricity is applied to the X-side shift register151, the X-side level shifter152, and the buffer156constituting the data line driving circuit150among the driving circuit120, there is a case that all or a part of the X-side shift register151, the X-side level shifter152, and the buffer156are broken. In addition, there is a possibility that the elements of the driving circuit become deteriorate even if all of the X-side shift register151, the X-side level shifter152, and the buffer are not broken. Particularly, the power supply lines included in the X-side power supply line group510amay generate the static electricity at a manufacturing process for forming the power supply lines. The X-side inter-power supply protecting circuit155including the current path159(j), which is an example of ‘an electrostatic protecting circuit’ according to the invention, is provided with respect to the X-side power supply line group510a. As a result, it is possible to release the static electricity generated at one power supply line to other power supply lines and thus to prevent the electrostatic breakdown of the driving circuit120.

In the data line driving circuit150, the protecting circuit may be provided with respect to at least one of an input terminal side of the data line driving circuit150where the signal is input from the outside and an output terminal side of the data line driving circuit150where the signal is output to the output. For example, as shown inFIG. 3, the data line driving circuit150may have an X-side input protecting circuit provided with respect to the input terminal side of the data line driving circuit150and an X-side output protecting circuit provided with respect to the output terminal side of the data line driving circuit150, in addition to the X-side inter-power supply protecting circuit155provided with respect to the X-side power supply line group510a. In detail, inFIG. 3, the X-side input protecting circuit may be provided with respect to the signal lines to which the X clock signal XCK, the inverting X clock signal XCKB, and the X transfer start pulse DX are input. The X-side output protecting circuit may be provided with respect to the signal line through which the X-side end pulse XEP is output or may be provided with respect to the signal lines through which the X-side driving signals X1, X2, X3, . . . , Xn−1 and Xn are output.

In addition, the X-side inter-power supply protecting circuit155can perform power supply through the current path159(j) such that level relationship between four potentials in the X-side power supply line group510ais maintained according to predetermined relationship, even when the organic EL panel100is driven. That is, even when the organic EL panel100is driven, the data line driving circuit150can be operated without being influenced by the power supply of the X-side inter-power supply protecting circuit155.

In the present embodiment, the data line driving circuit is mainly described. However, the configuration of the driving circuit of the electro-optical panel according to the invention is not limited to the data line driving circuit, but may be applied to the scanning line driving circuit for supplying the scanning signals to the electro-optical panel. Therefore, by installing the diode in the scanning line driving circuit, it is possible to discharge the static electricity generated at the scanning line driving circuit to the outside and thus to protect the scanning line driving circuit from the static electricity.

Second Embodiment

Next, a driving circuit of an organic EL panel according to a second embodiment of the invention will be described with reference toFIG. 5. In addition, organic EL display devices according to second to fourth embodiments have the same configuration as that of the organic EL display device according to the first embodiment, except for locations where diodes are connected. Therefore, the same elements as those of the first embodiment are represented by the same reference numerals. In addition, in the second to fourth embodiments, only any stage of stages constituting an X-side shift register, an X-side level shifter, and an X-side buffer will be described.

An electrostatic protecting circuit included in the driving circuit of the organic EL display device according to the second embodiment supplies a current path for releasing a static electricity with respect to both an X-side shift register and an X-side level shifter by using diodes167a(j) provided between power supply lines to supply power supplies for driving the X-side shift register and diodes168a(j) provided between power supply lines to supply power supplies for driving the X-side level shifter.FIG. 5is a block diagram showing one of the stages of the X-side shift register151, the X-side level shifter152, and the X-side buffer156shown inFIG. 2.

InFIG. 5, each stage S/R161a(j) (j=1, 2, . . . , and n) constituting the X-side shift register151included in the data line driving circuit150, each stage L/S162a(j) (j=1, 2, . . . , and n) included in the X-side level shifter152, and an X-side buffer B/F166a(j) (j=1, 2 . . . , and n) are connected to one another in an order of the S/R161a(j), the L/S162a(j), and the B/F166a(j) from an input side of a data line driving circuit.

The S/R161a(j) is driven by a second X-side power supply VDDX supplied from a first X-side power supply line501aand a third X-side power supply VSSX supplied from a second X-side power supply line502a. The L/S162a(j) and the B/F166a(j) are driven by a second X-side power supply VDDX supplied from a third X-side power supply line503aand a fourth X-side power supply VLLX supplied from a fourth X-side power supply line504a. Specifically, in the present embodiment, the third X-side power supply line503acorresponds to ‘one power supply line’ according to the invention and the fourth X-side power supply line504acorresponds to ‘another power supply line’ according to the invention.

The diode167a(j) and the diode168a(j) which are an example of ‘a diode’ according to the invention constitute the current paths169a(j) and169b(j) for releasing the static electricity.

The diode167a(j) is electrically connected in parallel to the S/R161a(j) between the two power supply lines for supplying the second X-side power supply VDDX and the third X-side power supply VSSX to the S/R161a(j). In the present embodiment, two power supply lines for supplying the second X-side power supply VDDX and the third X-side power supply VSSX are the first X-side power supply line501aand the second X-side power supply line502a. In addition, the diode167a(j) constitutes the current path168a(j) to release the static electricity generated at one of the two power supply lines to the other power supply line, thereby protecting the S/R161a(j) from the static electricity.

The diode168a(j) is electrically connected in parallel to the L/S162a(j) between the two power supply lines for supplying the second X-side power supply VDDX and the fourth X-side power supply VLLX to the L/S162a(j). The two power supply lines for supplying the second X-side power supply VDDX and the fourth X-side power supply VLLX are the third X-side power supply line503aand the fourth X-side power supply line504a. In addition, the diode168a(j) constitutes the current path169a(j) to release the static electricity generated at one of the two power supply lines to the other power supply line, thereby protecting the L/S162a(j) from the static electricity. In addition, in the present embodiment, since the S/R161a(j) and the L/S162a(j), and the L/S162a(j), and the B/F166a(j) commonly use the power supply lines, respectively, it is possible to release the static electricity generated at any one of the first X-side power supply line501a, the second X-side power supply line502a, the third X-side power supply line503a, and the fourth X-side power supply line504ato other power supply lines. In detail, when the static electricity having potential higher than that of the second X-side power supply VDDX is applied to the fourth X-side power supply line504afor supplying the power supply from the fourth X-side power supply VLLX, the current path169a(j) including the diode168a(j) discharges the static electricity from the fourth X-side power supply line504ato the third X-side power supply line503a. In addition, when the static electricity having potential lower than that of the fourth X-side power supply VLLX is applied to the third X-side power supply line503afor supplying the power supply from the second X-side power supply VDDX, the current path169a(j) including the diode168a(j) discharges the static electricity from the third X-side power supply line503ato the fourth X-side power supply line504a.

Therefore, in the case in which the static electricity is applied to the third X-side power supply line503aand the fourth X-side power supply line504a, when the static electricity having the potential lower than that of the current path is applied thereto, an undesired voltage generated between the third and fourth X-side power supply lines503aand504acan be dispersed and removed through the current path including the diode168a(j). Similarly, since a current path169a(j) is formed between the first and second X-side power supply lines501aand502aby the diode167a(j), it is possible to discharge an undesired voltage due to the static electricity generated at the first and second X-side power supply lines501aand502athrough the current path169a(j). Therefore, by providing the diode167a(j) and the diode168a(j), it is possible to protect all of the S/R161a(j), the L/S162a(j) and the B/F166a(j) from the static electricity.

Third Embodiment

Next, a driving circuit of an organic EL panel according to a third embodiment of the invention will be described with reference toFIG. 6.FIG. 6is a block diagram showing a portion of the driving circuit according to the third embodiment. The driving circuit of the organic EL panel according to the present embodiment is a modification of the driving circuit of the organic EL panel according to the second embodiment, in which a current path is provided between three power supply lines for supplying power supplies to an X-side shift register and an X-side level shifter and static electricity generated at one power supply line of three power supply lines can be released to other power supply lines.

InFIG. 6, each stage SIR171a(j) constituting an X-side shift register included in the driving circuit, each stage L/S172a(j) included in an X-side level shifter, and each stage B/F176a(j) of an X-side buffer are electrically connected to each other in an order of the S/R171a(j), the L/S172a(j), and the B/F176a(j) from an input side of a data line driving circuit. Therefore, various signals input from a timing generator and an image signal processing circuit to the driving circuit are transferred as transfer pulses from the SIR171a(j) to the L/S172a(j) at predetermined timings, and the transfer pulses are output through the B/F176a(j) as driving signals whose voltage levels are shifted by the L/S172a(j).

The S/R171a(j) is driven by a second X-side power supply VDDX and a third X-side power supply VSSX. A first X-side power supply line501asupplies a second X-side power supply VDDX to the S/R171a(j), and a second X-side power supply line502asupplies a third X-side power supply VSSX to the S/R171a(j). Between the first X-side power supply line501aand the second X-side power supply line502a, a diode177a(j) is electrically connected in parallel to the S/R171a(j). In addition, the diode177a(j) constitutes a current path179a(j) which discharges the static electricity generated at one of the first X-side power supply line501aand the second X-side power supply line502ato the other power supply line.

An anode of the diode177a(j) is electrically connected to the second X-side power supply line502aand a cathode thereof is electrically connected to the first X-side power supply line501a. Therefore, when the static electricity having potential higher than that of the second X-side power supply VDDX is applied to the second X-side power supply line502ato which the power supply is supplied from the third X-side power supply VSSX, the diode177a(j) discharges the static electricity the from the second X-side power supply line502ato the first X-side power supply line501a. When the static electricity having potential lower than that of the third X-side power supply VSSX is applied to the first X-side power supply line501ato which the power supply is supplied from the second X-side power supply VDDX, the diode177a(j) discharges the static electricity from the first X-side power supply line501ato the second X-side power supply line502a. By providing the diode177a(j), it is possible to discharge the static electricity generated at one of the first X-side power supply line501aand the second X-side power supply line502aand thus to protect the S/R171a(j) from the static electricity.

The L/S172a(j) are driven by the first X-side power supply VHHX and the third X-side power supply VSSX. The third X-side power supply line503asupplies the first X-side power supply VHHX to the L/S172a(j), and the fourth X-side power supply line504asupplies the third X-side power supply VSSX to the L/S172a(j). Between the third X-side power supply line503aand the fourth X-side power supply line504a, the diode178a(j) is electrically connected in parallel to the L/S172a(j). The diode178a(j) forms the current path179c(j) to discharge the static electricity generated at one of the third X-side power supply line503aand the fourth X-side power supply line504ato the other power supply line.

In addition, the second X-side power supply line502afor supplying the third X-side power supply VSSX to the S/R171a(j) and the fourth X-side power supply line504afor supplying the third X-side power supply VSSX to the L/S172a(j) supply the third X-side power supply VSSX. Therefore, the current path179b(j) for discharging the static electricity at any of the first, second and third X-side power supply lines501a,502aand503ais formed by the diode173a(j). Therefore, by providing the diodes177a(j),173a(j) and178a(j), it is possible to protect the S/R171a(j) and the L/S172a(j) from the static electricity generated at any of the three power supply lines.

The B/F176a(j) is driven by the first X-side power supply VHHX and the third X-side power supply VSSX. The third X-side power supply line503asupplies the first X-side power supply VHHX to the B/F176a(j) and the fourth X-side power supply line504asupplies the third X-side power supply VSSX to the B/F176a(j). Between the third X-side power supply line503aand the fourth X-side power supply line504a, the diode179c(j) is electrically connected in parallel to the B/F176a(j). The diode179c(j) forms the current path178a(j) to discharge the static electricity generated at one of the third X-side power supply line503aand the fourth X-side power supply line504ato the other power supply line. Therefore, by providing the diode179c(j), it is possible to protect the L/S172a(j) and the B/F176a(j) from the static electricity generated at one of the third X-side power supply line503aand the fourth X-side power supply line504a.

In such a manner, it is possible to disperse the static electricity generated at the first X-side power supply line501a, the second X-side power supply line502a, the third X-side power supply line503aand the fourth X-side power supply line504aby the diodes177a(j),178a(j) an179a(j) and to remove it. Therefore, even when an undesired voltage is generated between the power supply lines, it is possible to protect the entire driving circuit including the X-side level shifter, the X-side buffer, and the X-side shift register from the undesired voltage generated due to the static electricity or the like.

Fourth Embodiment

Next, a driving circuit of an organic EL panel according to a fourth embodiment of the invention will be described with reference toFIG. 7.FIG. 7is a block diagram showing a part of the driving circuit of the organic EL panel according to the fourth embodiment. In the driving circuit of the organic EL panel according to the fourth embodiment, each stage constituting an X-side level shifter to drive the organic EL panel is driven by three power supply lines among four power supply (a first X-side power supply VHHX, a second X-side power supply VDDX, a third X-side power supply VSSX and a fourth X-side power supply VLLX). By providing a current path between three power supply lines, it is possible to disperse static electricity generated at the three power supply lines and to remove it. In addition, either the first X-side power supply line501aor the second X-side power supply line502afor supplying the power supplies to the X-side shift register502ato supply the three types of power supplies to the X-side level shifter162is commonly used as a power supply line for supplying the power supply to the X-side level shifter151.

InFIG. 7, each stage L/S182a(j) constituting an X-side level shifter152is driven by a first X-side power supply VHHX, a second X-side power supply VDDX and a third X-side power supply VSSX. In the fourth embodiment, for example, a third X-side power supply line503asupplies the first X-side power supply VHHX to the L/S182a(j) and a fourth X-side power supply line504asupplies the third X-side power supply VSSX to the L/S182a(j). An X-side driving signal transmitted from the L/S182a(j) to the X-side buffer B/F186a(j) is shifted to a voltage level between potentials of the first X-side power supply VHHX and the third X-side power supply VSSX by the L/S182a(j). In addition, the second X-side power supply VDDX is also supplied to the L/S182a(j). As a power supply line for supplying the second X-side power supply VDDX to the L/S182a(j), for example, a power supply line for supplying a power to the S/R181a(j) is commonly used.

Between the third X-side power supply line503ato supply the first X-side power supply VHH and the fourth X-side power supply line504ato supply the third X-side power supply VSSX, a diode187a(j) is provided. An anode of the diode187a(j) is electrically connected to the fourth X-side power supply line504aand a cathode thereof is electrically connected to the third X-side power supply line503a. Therefore, the diode187a(j) constitutes a current path185a(j) which discharges the static electricity generated at any of the third X-side power supply line503aand the fourth X-side power supply line504a.

When the static electricity having potential higher than that of the first X-side power supply VHHX is applied to the fourth X-side power supply line504a, the diode187a(j) discharges the static electricity from the fourth X-side power supply line504ato the third X-side power supply line503a. When the static electricity having potential lower than that of the third X-side power supply VSSX is applied to the third X-side power supply line504a, the diode187a(j) discharges the static electricity from the third power supply line503ato the fourth X-side power supply line504a. Therefore, by providing the diode187a(j), the electrostatic breakdown of the X-side level shifter due to the static electricity generated at the power supply lines for supplying the power supplies to drive the X-side level shifter can be prevented.

The diode188a(j) is electrically connected between the power supply line for supplying the second X-side power supply VDDX and the third X-side power supply line503afor supplying the first X-side power supply VHHX. Similar to the diode187a(j), the diode188a(j) forms the current path186a(j) to discharge the static electricity generated at the two power supply lines.

Therefore, by providing the diodes187a(j) and188a(j), it is possible to prevent the L/S182a(j) from being broken due to the static electricity generated at the power supply lines in the driving circuit of the L/S182a(j) and to prevent the overall driving circuit from being broken due to the static electricity.

Fifth Embodiment

Next, a driving circuit according to a fifth embodiment of the invention will be described.FIG. 8is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an image display device having the driving circuit of the electro-optical panel according to the fifth embodiment mounted therein.FIGS. 9 to 11are detailed views showing the arrangement of a protecting circuit included in the driving circuit of the electro-optical panel according to the fifth embodiment. The driving circuit of the electro-optical panel according to the fifth embodiment is similar to the driving circuits of the electro-optical panels shown in the first to fourth embodiments in that various circuits included in the driving circuit can be protected from the static electricity. InFIGS. 8 to 11, a connection state between wiring lines is shown in detail as compared toFIGS. 4 to 7, and the same elements are represented by the same reference numerals.

InFIG. 8, an organic EL display device200includes an organic EL display panel250, an image display region210having a plurality of pixel portions205arranged in a matrix shape on the organic display panel250, a data line driving circuit220, and a power supply line group240ahaving power supply lines241a,241b, and241c.

The data line driving circuit220includes a shift register221, a level shifter222and a buffer223which are respectively an example of ‘an electronic circuit’ according the invention. In addition, the stages221(j),222(j) and223(j) of the shift resister221, the level shifter222and the buffer223are respectively an example of ‘a unit circuit’ according the invention. The power supply lines241a,241b, and241csupply power supplies VDD, VSS, and VHH having different potentials to the data line driving circuit220. In addition, since the organic EL display device according to the fifth embodiment has the same configuration as that of the organic EL display device illustrated with reference toFIG. 1, the detailed description about the configuration will be omitted.

FIG. 9is a diagram showing an example of the arrangement of a protecting circuit included in the data line driving circuit220. The data line driving circuit220has power input lines280(j) (j=1, 2, . . . , and n) and an electrostatic protecting diode300(j) (j=1, 2, . . . , and n).

InFIG. 9, through the power input lines280(j), the respective stages of the shift register, the buffer and the level shifter and the power supply lines241a,241b, and241care electrically connected to each other. In addition, the power input lines280(j) input a power supply VLL from the power supply line241cto the respective stages of the shift register221, the level shifter222and the buffer223.

The power input line280(j) is provided between the power supply lines241band241cand extends near the respective stages of the shift register221, the level shifter222and the buffer223so as to be branched from the power supply line241c.

The electrostatic protecting diode300(j) is provided in the middle of the power input line280(j) and protects the respective stages of the level shifter222and the buffer223from static electricity generated at the power supply lines241band241cor accumulated in the power supply lines241band241c. Since the electrostatic protecting diode300(j) is provided in the middle of the power input line280(j) for supplying the power supply to the respective stages of the level shifter222and the buffer223, the electrostatic protecting diode300(j) is provided near the respective stages of the level shifter222and the buffer223as compared to the protecting circuit provided at the exterior of the power input line280(j), for example, in the middle of the power supply line241cor241b. Therefore, it is possible to suitably protect the respective stages of the level shifter222and the buffer223from the static electricity accumulated in the power supply line241cor241b.

InFIG. 10, the power input line281(j) (j=1, 2, . . . , and n) is provided for each stage of the level shifter222(j) and the buffer223(j) such that it is electrically connected between the power supply lines241cand241b. In addition, the power input line281(j) (j=1, 2, . . . , and n) supplies the power supply VLL to each stage of the level shifter222(j) and the buffer223(j).

The electrostatic protecting diode301(j) is provided in the middle of the power input line provided for each stage of the level shifter222(j) and the buffer223(j) and protects each stage of the level shifter222(j) and the buffer223(j) from the static electricity generated at or accumulated in the power supply lines241cand241b.

The power input line282(j) is provided for each stage of the shift register221(j) such that it is electrically connected between the power supply lines241aand241b. In addition, the power input line282(j) (j=1, 2, . . . , and n) supplies the power supply VSS to each stage of the shift register221(j).

The electrostatic protecting diode302(j) is provided in the middle of the power input line282(j) provided for each stage of the shift register221(j) and protects each stage of the shift register221(j) from the static electricity generated at or accumulated in the power supply lines241aand241b.

The electrostatic protecting diodes301(j) and302(j) are provided near each stage of the shift register221(j), the level shifter222(j) and the buffer223(j) as compared to the protecting circuit provided at the exteriors of the power input lines281(j) and282(j) for supplying the power supply to each stage of the shift register221(j), the level shifter222(j) and the buffer223(j), that is, provided for the power supply line241a,241b, or241c. Therefore, the electrostatic protecting diodes301(j) and302(j) suitably can protect the respective stages of the shift register221(j), the level shifter222(j) and the buffer223(j) from the static electricity accumulated in the power supply line241a,241b, or241c.

InFIG. 11, the power input line283(j) (j=1, 2, . . . , and n) is provided for each stage of the level shifter222(j) and the buffer223(j) such that it is electrically connected between the power supply lines241cand241b. In addition, the power input line283(j) (j=1, 2, . . . , and n) supplies the power supply VLL to each stage of the level shifter222(j) and the buffer223(j).

The electrostatic protecting diode303(j) is provided in the middle of the power input line283(j) provided for each stage of the level shifter222(j) and the buffer223(j) and protects each stage of the level shifter222(j) and the buffer223(j) from the static electricity generated at or accumulated in the power supply lines241cand241b.

The power input line284(j) is provided for each stage of the level shifter222(j) and the buffer223(j) such that it is electrically connected between the power supply lines241band241c. In addition, the power input line284(j) (j=1, 2, . . . , and n) supplies the power supply VSS to each stage of the level shifter222(j) and the buffer223(j).

The electrostatic protecting diode304(j) is provided in the middle of the power input line284(j) provided for each stage of the level shifter222(j) and the buffer223(j) and protects each stage of the level shifter222(j) and the buffer223(j) from the static electricity generated at or accumulated in the power supply lines241cand241b.

The power input line285(j) is provided for each stage of the shift register221(j) such that it is electrically connected between the power supply lines241aand241b. In addition, the power input line285(j) (j=1, 2, . . . , and n) supplies the power supply VDD to each stage of the shift register221(j).

The electrostatic protecting diode305(j) is provided in the middle of the power input line285(j) provided for each stage of the shift register221(j) and protects each stage of the shift register221(j) from the static electricity generated at or accumulated in the power supply lines241aand241b.

The power input line286(j) is provided for each stage of the shift register221(j) such that it is electrically connected between the power supply lines241aand241b. In addition, the power input line286(j) (j=1, 2, . . . , and n) supplies the power supply VSS to each stage of the shift register221(j).

The electrostatic protecting diode306(j) is provided in the middle of the power input line286(j) provided for each stage of the shift register221(j) and protects each stage of the shift register221(j) from the static electricity generated at or accumulated in the power supply lines241aand241b.

The electrostatic protecting diodes303(j),304(j),305(j) and306(j) are provided near the shift register221(j), the level shifter222(j), and the buffer223(j) as compared to the protecting circuit provided at the outside of the power input lines283(j),284(j),285(j), and286(j) for supplying the power supply to the shift register221(j), the level shifter222(j), and the buffer223(j), that is, provided on the power supply line241a,241b, or241c. Therefore, the electrostatic protecting diodes303(j),304(j),305(j), and306(j) can suitably protect the shift register221(j), the level shifter222(j), and the buffer223(j) from the static electricity accumulated in the power supply line241a,241b, or241c.

Electronic Apparatus

Next, various electronic apparatuses having the above-described organic EL display device mounted therein will be described. The various electronic apparatuses, which will be described in detail later, includes any one of the driving circuits of the electro-optical panels according to the first to fourth embodiments. In addition, the various electronic apparatuses, which will be described in detail, may include the driving circuit of the electro-optical panel according to the fifth embodiment.

A: Mobile Computer

An example in which the above-described organic EL display device is applied to a mobile personal computer will be described with reference toFIG. 12.FIG. 12is a perspective view showing the configuration of a computer1200.

InFIG. 12, the computer1200includes a main body1204having a keyboard1202and a display device1206having a display unit1005composed of the organic EL display device (not shown). The display unit1005can display an image having a high quality and improve reliability of the overall device. By providing the organic EL elements which emit light components corresponding to three primary colors of red, green, and blue on a plurality of organic EL display substrates included in the display unit1005, the display unit1005can display images with full color display.

B: Cellular Phone

Further, an example in which the above-described organic EL display device is applied to a cellular phone will be described with reference toFIG. 13.FIG. 13is a perspective view showing the configuration of a cellular phone1300. InFIG. 13, the cellular phone1300includes a plurality of operation buttons1302and a display unit1305having the organic EL display device according to the first embodiment.

Similar to the above-described display unit1005, the display unit1305can display an image having a high quality and improve reliability. Since a yield of an organic EL display panel included in the display unit1305is improved, it is possible to reduce a cost of the overall cellular phone1300and to increase durability of the cellular phone1300. In addition, a plurality of organic EL elements included in the display unit1305emit light components corresponding to three primary colors of red, green, and blue, so that the display unit1305can display images through full color display.

The invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, but may be properly changed within a scope without departing from the sprit of the invention read from claims and the overall specification. A driving circuit for an electro-optical panel, a method of driving an electro-optical panel, and an electronic apparatus, which are changed or modified, are within a technical scope of the invention.