Patent Publication Number: US-7719641-B2

Title: Array substrate, method of manufacturing the same and liquid crystal display apparatus having the same

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE 
   This patent application is a Continuation Application of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/004,152, filed Dec. 3, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,511,788, issued on Mar. 31, 2009, which claims priority to and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 2003-90602, filed on Dec. 12, 2003 and Korean Patent Application No. 2004-1323, filed on Jan. 8, 2004, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. 

   BACKGROUND 
   1. Field of the Invention 
   The present invention relates to an array substrate, a method of manufacturing the array substrate and a liquid crystal display (LCD) apparatus having the array substrate. More particularly, the present invention relates to an array substrate capable of improving viewing angle and simplifying manufacturing process, a method of manufacturing the array substrate and an LCD apparatus having the array substrate. 
   2. Description of the Related Art 
   In general, a liquid crystal in an LCD apparatus varies an arrangement in response to an electric field applied thereto, and thus a light transmittance thereof may be altered. The liquid crystal is interposed between an array substrate having a thin film transistor (TFT) and a color filter substrate, and has an anisotropic dielectric constant. 
   The liquid crystal of the LCD apparatus is anisotropic so that an image display quality is dependent on the angle of a viewpoint. In a conventional LCD apparatus, the range of the viewpoint angle is restricted so that the image display quality is deteriorated. When the LCD apparatus is used as a monitor, the viewpoint angle may be more than 90°. The viewpoint angle having a contrast ratio of more than about 10:1 is defined as a viewing angle of the LCD apparatus. The contrast ratio is a ratio of a luminance of a dark image to a luminance of a bright image. When the LCD apparatus displays a darker image, and has more uniform luminance, the contrast ratio of the LCD apparatus increases. 
   The LCD apparatus may include a black matrix having a decreased reflectivity and use a normally black mode so as to prevent the leakage of a light and to display the darker image. When a voltage is not applied to a common electrode and a pixel electrode of the LCD apparatus having the normally black mode, a black image is displayed. In order to uniformize the luminance, the LCD apparatus includes a compensation film or a liquid crystal layer having a multi-domain. The liquid crystal layer having the multi-domain has a plurality of domains. 
   The LCD apparatus forming the multi-domain includes a mixed vertical alignment (MVA) mode, a patterned vertical alignment (PVA) mode, an in-plane switching (IPS) mode, etc. 
   When the LCD apparatus includes the MVA mode, a plurality of protrusions is formed on the color filter substrate and/or a thin film transistor (TFT) substrate to form the multi-domain, thereby increasing the viewing angle of the LCD apparatus. The protrusions are formed on the color filter substrate and/or the TFT substrate through additional processes, for example, such as coating process, photo process, etc., thereby increasing the manufacturing cost of the LCD apparatus. In addition, when the color filter substrate is misaligned with the TFT substrate, the protrusions may not form the multi-domain so that the yield of the LCD apparatus is decreased. 
   When the LCD apparatus includes the PVA mode, a plurality of slits is formed in the common electrode to distort the electric field in the liquid crystal layer to form the multi-domain, thereby increasing the viewing angle of the LCD apparatus. When the color filter substrate is misaligned with the TFT substrate, the slits may form a distorted multi-domain, thereby deteriorating the image display quality. 
   When the LCD apparatus includes the IPS mode, the TFT substrate includes a plurality of electrodes disposed substantially parallel with one another to form the distorted electric field. The LCD apparatus including the IPS mode, however, has decreased luminance. 
   In addition, the LCD apparatus forming the multi-domain is manufactured through the additional processes so that the manufacturing cost of the LCD apparatus is increased. 
   SUMMARY 
   The present invention provides an array substrate capable of improving viewing angle and simplifying manufacturing process. 
   The present invention also provides a method of manufacturing the above-mentioned array substrate. 
   The present invention also provides an LCD apparatus having the above-mentioned array substrate. 
   An array substrate in accordance with an aspect of the present invention includes a plate, a switching element, an insulating layer and a pixel electrode. 
   The plate includes a pixel region. The switching element is disposed on the plate. The insulating layer is disposed on the plate to include an opening for a multi-domain disposed in the pixel region and a contact hole. An electrode of the switching element is partially exposed through the contact hole. The pixel electrode is disposed on the insulating layer corresponding to the pixel region, an inner surface of the opening for the multi-domain and an inner surface of the contact hole so that the pixel electrode is electrically connected to the electrode of the switching element. 
   An array substrate in accordance with another aspect of the present invention includes a plate, an insulating layer and a pixel electrode. 
   The plate includes a pixel region having a transmission window and a switching element disposed in the pixel region. A light passes through the transmission window. The insulating layer is disposed on the plate to include a plurality of openings for a multi-domain disposed in the pixel region and a contact hole. An electrode of the switching element is partially exposed through the contact hole. The pixel electrode is disposed on the insulating layer corresponding to the pixel region, an inner surface of the openings for the multi-domain and an inner surface of the contact hole so that the pixel electrode is electrically connected to the electrode of the switching element. 
   A method of manufacturing the array substrate in accordance with an aspect of the present invention is provided as follows. 
   A switching element is formed on a plate including a pixel region. An insulating layer is formed on the plate. The insulating layer includes an opening for a multi-domain disposed in the pixel region and a contact hole. An electrode of the switching element is partially exposed through the contact hole. A pixel electrode is formed on the insulating layer, an inner surface of the opening for the multi-domain and an inner surface of the contact hole. The pixel electrode is electrically connected to the electrode of the switching element. 
   A method of manufacturing the array substrate in accordance with another aspect of the present invention is provided as follows. 
   An insulating layer is formed on a plate including a pixel region having a transmission window, and includes a plurality of openings for a multi-domain disposed in the transmission window and a contact hole. A light passes through the transmission window, and an electrode of the switching element is partially exposed through the contact hole. A pixel electrode is formed on the insulating layer, an inner surface of the openings for the multi-domain and an inner surface of the contact hole. The pixel electrode is electrically connected to the electrode of the switching element. 
   A method of manufacturing the array substrate in accordance with still another aspect of the present invention is provided as follows. 
   A gate electrode is formed on a plate including a pixel region having a transmission window. A light passes through the transmission window. A gate insulating layer is formed on the plate having the gate electrode. A switching element is formed on the gate insulating layer. The switching element includes a semiconductor layer pattern, a source electrode and a drain electrode. A transparent insulating material is disposed over the substrate having the switching element. The deposited transparent insulating material and the gate insulating layer are etched to form a plurality of openings for a multi-domain that is disposed in the transmission window and a contact hole. The drain electrode is partially exposed through the contact hole. A transparent electrode is formed on the organic layer corresponding to the pixel region, an inner surface of the openings for the multi-domain and an inner surface of the contact hole. A reflection electrode is formed in a reflection region of the pixel region. An externally provided light is reflected from the reflection electrode. 
   A display apparatus in accordance with an aspect of the present invention includes a first substrate, a second substrate and a liquid crystal layer. 
   The second substrate includes a plate having a pixel region, a switching element disposed on the plate, an insulating layer and a pixel electrode. The pixel electrode is disposed on the insulating layer corresponding to the pixel region, an inner surface of the opening for the multi-domain and an inner surface of the contact hole so that the pixel electrode is electrically connected to the electrode of the switching element. The insulating layer is disposed on the plate, and includes an opening for a multi-domain and a contact hole. The opening for a multi-domain is disposed in the pixel region and a contact hole. An electrode of the switching element is partially exposed through the contact hole. The second substrate corresponds to the first substrate. The liquid crystal layer is interposed between the first and second substrates. 
   A display apparatus in accordance with another aspect of the present invention includes a first substrate, a second substrate and a liquid crystal layer. 
   The second substrate includes a plate including a pixel region having a transmission window and a switching element disposed in the pixel region, an insulating layer, and a pixel electrode. The insulating layer is disposed on the plate, and includes a plurality of openings for a multi-domain disposed in the pixel region and a contact hole. An electrode of the switching element is partially exposed through the contact hole. A light passes through the transmission window. The pixel electrode is disposed on the insulating layer corresponding to the pixel region, an inner surface of the openings for the multi-domain and an inner surface of the contact hole so that the pixel electrode is electrically connected to the electrode of the switching element. The second substrate corresponds to the first substrate. The liquid crystal layer is interposed between the first and second substrates. 
   The LCD apparatus includes a reflective type LCD apparatus, a transmissive type LCD apparatus, a reflective-transmissive type LCD apparatus, etc. 
   The switching element includes a thin film transistor (TFT), a field effect transistor (FET), etc. 
   Therefore, the insulating layer includes the openings for the multi-domain so that the viewing angle and the image display quality of the LCD apparatus are improved. 
   In addition, the openings for the multi-domain are disposed on the second substrate so that the LCD apparatus includes the multi-domain having improved characteristics, although the first substrate is misaligned with the second substrate. 
   Furthermore, the openings for the multi-domain are formed from a same layer as the contact hole so that the manufacturing process is simplified and the manufacturing cost is decreased. 

   
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     The above and other advantages of the present invention will become more apparent by describing in detail exemplary embodiments thereof with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: 
       FIG. 1  is a plan view illustrating an LCD apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 2  is a plan view illustrating a multi-domain formed in a transmission window shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
       FIG. 3  is a cross-sectional view taken along the I-I′ line shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
       FIG. 4  is a cross-sectional view taken along the II-II′ line shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
       FIGS. 5A to 5H  are cross-sectional views illustrating a method of manufacturing an LCD apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 6  is a plan view illustrating an LCD apparatus according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 7  is a plan view illustrating multi-domains formed in a transmission window shown in  FIG. 6 ; 
       FIG. 8  is a cross-sectional view taken along the III-III′ line shown in  FIG. 6 ; 
       FIG. 9  is a plan view illustrating an LCD apparatus according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 10  is a plan view illustrating an LCD apparatus according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 11  is a plan view illustrating an LCD apparatus according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 12  is a plan view illustrating a multi-domain formed in a transmission window shown in  FIG. 11 ; 
       FIG. 13  is a cross-sectional view taken along the IV-IV′ line shown in  FIG. 11 ; 
       FIG. 14  is a cross-sectional view taken along the V-V′ line shown in  FIG. 11 ; 
       FIG. 15  is a plan view illustrating an LCD apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 16  is a plan view illustrating a multi-domain formed in a transmission window shown in  FIG. 15 ; 
       FIG. 17  is a cross-sectional view taken along the VI-VI′ line shown in  FIG. 16 ; 
       FIG. 18  is a plan view illustrating an LCD apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 19  is a plan view illustrating a multi-domain formed in a transmission window shown in  FIG. 18 ; 
       FIG. 20  is a cross-sectional view taken along the VII-VII′ line shown in  FIG. 18 ; 
       FIG. 21  is a plan view illustrating an LCD apparatus according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; and 
       FIG. 22  is a cross-sectional view taken along the VIII-VIII′ line shown in  FIG. 21 . 
   

   DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENT(S) 
   It should be understood that the exemplary embodiments of the present invention described below may be varied in many different ways without departing from the inventive principles disclosed herein, and the scope of the present invention is therefore not limited to these particular following embodiments. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be through and complete, and will fully convey the concept of the invention to those skilled in the art by way of example and not of limitation. 
   Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. 
     FIG. 1  is a plan view illustrating an LCD apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 2  is a plan view illustrating a multi-domain formed in a transmission window shown in  FIG. 1 .  FIG. 3  is a cross-sectional view taken along the I-I′ line shown in  FIG. 1 .  FIG. 4  is a cross-sectional view taken along the Ii-II′ line shown in  FIG. 1 . 
   Referring to  FIGS. 1 to 4 , the LCD apparatus includes a first substrate  170 , a second substrate  180  and a liquid crystal layer  108 . 
   The first substrate  170  includes an upper plate  100 , a black matrix  102 , a color filter  104 , a common electrode  106  and a spacer  110 . The second substrate  180  includes a lower plate  120 , a thin film transistor (TFT)  119 , a source line  118   a ′, a gate line  118   b ′, a gate insulating layer  126 , a passivation layer  116 , a transparent electrode  112  and a reflection electrode  113 . The liquid crystal layer  108  is interposed between the first and second substrates  170  and  180 . 
   The second substrate  180  includes a pixel region  140  and a blocking region  145 . An image is displayed in the pixel region  140 , and a light is blocked in the blocking region  145 . The pixel region  140  includes a transmission window  129   a  and a reflection region  128 . A light generated from a backlight assembly passes through the transmission window  129 , and a light that is externally provided to the LCD apparatus is reflected from the reflection region  128 . For example, the transmission window  129   a  may have a rectangular shape. 
   The upper and lower plates  100  and  120  include a transparent glass. The light may pass through the transparent glass. The upper and lower plates  100  and  120  do not include alkaline ions. When the upper and lower plates  100  and  120  include the alkaline ions, the alkaline ions may be dissolved in the liquid crystal layer  108  to decrease the resistivity of the liquid crystal layer  108 , thereby decreasing the image display quality and the adhesive strength between a sealant and the plates  100  and  120 . In addition, the characteristics of the TFT  119  may be deteriorated. 
   Alternatively, the upper and lower substrates  100  and  120  may also include triacetylcellulose (TAC), polycarbonate (PC), polyethersulfone (PES), polyethyleneterephthalate (PET), polyethylenenaphthalate (PEN), polyvinylalcohol (PVA), polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), cyclo-olefin polymer (COP), etc. 
   The upper and lower substrates  100  and  120  are optically isotropic. Alternatively, the upper and lower substrates  100  and  120  may be optically an isotropic. 
   The black matrix  102  is disposed in the reflection region  128  of the upper plate  100  to block the internally and externally provided lights. The black matrix  102  blocks the light passing through the blocking region  145  to improve the image display quality. 
   A metallic material or an opaque organic material is deposited on the upper plate  120  and etched to form the black matrix  102 . The metallic material of the black matrix  102  includes chrome (Cr), chrome oxide (CrOx), chrome nitride (CrNx), etc. The opaque organic material includes carbon black, a pigment compound, a colorant compound, etc. The pigment compound may include a red pigment, a green pigment and a blue pigment, and the colorant compound may include a red colorant, a green colorant and a blue colorant. Alternatively, the opaque organic material comprising photoresist may be coated on the upper plate  100  to form the black matrix  102  through a photo process. The edges of a plurality of the color filters may also be overlapped one another to form the black matrix  102 . 
   The color filter  104  is formed on the upper plate  100  having the black matrix  102  so that the internally and externally provided lights having a predetermined wavelength may pass through the color filter  104 . The color filter  104  includes a photo initiator, a monomer, a binder, a pigment, a dispersant, a solvent, a photoresist, etc. The color filter  104  may be disposed on the lower plate  120  or the passivation layer  116 . 
   The common electrode  106  is formed on the upper plate  100  having the black matrix  102  and the color filter  104 . The common electrode  106  includes a transparent conductive material, for example, such as indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZO), etc. Alternatively, the common electrode  106  may be disposed in substantially parallel with the transparent electrode  112  and the reflection electrode  113 . 
   The spacer  110  is formed on the upper plate  100  having the black matrix  102 , the color filter  104  and the common electrode  106 . The first substrate  170  is spaced apart from the second substrate  180  by the spacer  110 . In this exemplary embodiment, the spacer  110  is disposed at a position corresponding to the black matrix  102 , and includes a column shape. Alternatively, the spacer  110  may include a ball shaped spacer or a mixture of the column shaped spacer and the ball shaped spacer. 
   The TFT  119  is disposed in the reflection region  128  of the lower plate  120 , and includes a source electrode  118   a , a gate electrode  118   b , a drain electrode  118   c  and a semiconductor layer pattern. A driving integrated circuit (not shown) applies the source electrode  118   a  with a data voltage through the source line  118   a ′, and applies the gate electrode  118   b  with a gate signal through the gate line  118   b′.    
   A storage capacitor (not shown) is formed on the lower plate  120  to maintain a voltage difference between the reflection electrode  113  and the common electrode  106  and a voltage difference between the transparent electrode  112  and the common electrode  106 . The storage capacitor (not shown) may have an end-gate type or an isolated line type. 
   The gate insulating layer  126  is formed over the lower plate  120  having the gate electrode  118   b  so that the gate electrode  118   b  is electrically insulated from the source electrode  118   a  and the drain electrode  118   c . The gate insulating layer  126  may include silicon oxide (SiOx), silicon nitride (SiNx), etc. 
   The passivation layer  116  is disposed over the lower plate  120  having the TFT  119 . The passivation layer  116  includes a contact hole. The drain electrode  118   c  is partially exposed through the contact hole. The passivation layer  126  may include the silicon oxide (SiOx), the silicon nitride (SiNx), etc. 
   The passivation layer  116  includes an opening  130   a  for a multi-domain to form the multi-domain in the liquid crystal layer  108 . The opening  130   a  for the multi-domain is disposed in the transmission window  129   a . In this exemplary embodiment, the opening  130   a  for the multi-domain is disposed on the central line of the transmission window  129   a , and has an extended rectangular shape. The gate insulating layer  126  corresponding to the opening  130   a  for the multi-domain is also opened. 
   The organic layer  114  is disposed on the lower plate  120  having the TFT  119  and the passivation layer  126  so that the TFT  119  is electrically insulated from the transparent electrode  112  and the reflection electrode  113 . The organic layer  114  includes a contact hole. The organic layer  114  defines the transmission window  129   a . The transmission window  129   a  is opened, and a portion of the drain electrode  118   c  is exposed through the contact hole. 
   The organic layer  114  adjusts the thickness of the liquid crystal layer  108  so that the liquid crystal layer  108  has a first thickness corresponding to the reflection region  128  and a second thickness corresponding to the transmission window  129   a . The second thickness is different from the first thickness corresponding to the reflection region  128 . 
   The organic layer  114  also planarizes the lower plate  120  having the TFT  119 , the source line  118   a ′, the gate line  118   b ′, etc. 
   In this exemplary embodiment, the organic layer  114  includes convex and concave disposed on the upper surface of the organic layer  114 . The, convex and concave improve the reflectivity of the reflection electrode  113 . A protruded portion  115  is disposed on a portion of the organic layer  114  where the source line  118   a ′ is overlapped with the gate line  118   b ′. The protruded portion  115  corresponds to the spacer  110 , thereby controlling the arrangement of a vertically aligned liquid crystal of the liquid crystal layer  108 . In this exemplary embodiment, the protruded portion  115  makes contact with the spacer  110 . Therefore, the multi domain is formed in the liquid crystal layer  108 . 
   Referring again to  FIG. 2 , four domains are disposed in the transmission window  129   a . The multi-domain includes the four domains, and a center of the multi-domain corresponds to the opening  130   a  for the multi-domain. The four domains are disposed adjacent to the opening  130   a  for the multi-domain. 
   The transparent electrode  112  is formed on the organic layer  114  corresponding to the pixel region  140 , in the contact hole and in the transmission window  129   a  so that the transparent electrode  112  is electrically connected to the drain electrode  118   c . When the voltages are applied to the common electrode  106  and the transparent electrode  112 , the liquid crystal of the liquid crystal layer  108  is controlled so that the light transmittance of the liquid crystal layer  108  is changed. The transparent electrode  112  includes indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZO), etc. 
   The reflection electrode  113  is disposed on the organic layer  114  corresponding to the reflection region  128 . In this exemplary embodiment, the reflection electrode  113  is disposed along the convex and concave of the organic layer  114  so that the externally provided light is reflected from the reflection electrode  113  into a predetermined direction. The reflection electrode  113  includes a conductive material so that the reflection electrode  113  is electrically connected to the drain electrode  118   c  through the transparent electrode  112 . 
   A first alignment layer (not shown) and a second alignment layer (not shown) may be disposed on the first and second substrates  170  and  180 , respectively, to align the liquid crystal layer  108 . The first and second alignment layers (not shown) may be rubbed in predetermined directions. In this exemplary embodiment, the rubbing direction of the first alignment layer (not shown) of the first substrate  170  is opposite to that of the second alignment layer (not shown) of the second substrate  180 . 
   The liquid crystal layer  108  is interposed between the first and second substrates  170  and  180 , and sealed by the sealant (not shown). The liquid crystal layer  108  may include a vertical alignment (VA) mode, a twisted nematic (TN) mode, a mixed twisted nematic (MTN) mode or a homogeneous alignment mode. In this exemplary embodiment, the liquid crystal layer  108  includes the vertical alignment (VA) mode. 
   When the voltages are applied to the transparent electrode  112 , the reflection electrode  113  and the common electrode  106 , a distorted electric field is formed in a region adjacent to the protruded portion  115  and the spacer  110 , a stepped portion between the transmission window  129   a  and the reflection region  128 , and a region adjacent to each of the openings  130   a  for the multi-domain. When the distorted electric field is applied to the vertically aligned liquid crystal layer  108 , the multi-domain is formed in the vertically aligned liquid crystal layer  108  so that the viewing angle of the LCD apparatus is improved. 
     FIGS. 5A to 5H  are cross-sectional views illustrating a method of manufacturing an LCD apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 
   Referring to  FIG. 5A , the lower plate  120  includes the pixel region  140  and the blocking region  145 . The pixel region  140  includes the transmission window  129   a  and the reflection region  128 . The internally provided light generated from the backlight assembly (not shown) passes through the transmission window  129   a , and the externally provided light is reflected from the reflection region  128 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 5B , a conductive material is deposited on the lower plate  120 . The deposited conductive material is partially removed to form the gate electrode  118   b  and the gate line  118   b ′. The gate insulating layer  126  is deposited on the lower plate  120  having the gate electrode  118   b  and the gate line  118   b ′. The gate insulating layer  126  includes a transparent conductive material. In this exemplary embodiment, the gate insulating layer  126  includes silicon oxide (SiOx), silicon nitride (SiNx), etc. 
   Amorphous silicon and N+ type amorphous silicon are deposited on the gate insulating layer  126  and etched to form the semiconductor layer on the gate insulating layer  126  corresponding to the gate electrode  118   b . A conductive material is deposited on the gate insulating layer  126  having the semiconductor layer. The conductive material deposited on the gate insulating layer  126  is partially etched to form the source electrode  118   a , the source line  118   a ′ and the drain electrode  118   c . Therefore, the TFT  119  including the source electrode  118   a , the gate electrode  118   b , the drain electrode  118   c  and the semiconductor layer is formed on the lower plate  120 . 
   A transparent insulating material is deposited over the lower plate  120  having the TFT  119 . In this exemplary embodiment, the transparent insulating material includes the silicon oxide (SiOx), the silicon nitride (SiNx), etc. 
   Referring to  FIG. 5C , the deposited transparent material and the gate insulating layer  126  are partially removed to form the contact hole and the opening  130   a  for the multi-domain disposed on the central line of the transmission window  129   a . The drain electrode  118   c  is partially exposed through the contact hole. Therefore, the passivation layer  116  including the contact hole and the opening  130   a  for the multi-domain is formed on the lower plate  120  having the TFT  119 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 5D , an organic material is coated over the passivation layer  116  having the contact hole and the opening  130   a  for the multi-domain. In this exemplary embodiment, the organic material includes photoresist. 
   Referring to  FIG. 5E , the coated organic material  114 ′ is exposed and developed to form an organic layer  114  including a contact hole, the transmission window  129   a , the convex and concave and the protruded portion  115 . The drain electrode  118   c  is partially exposed through the contact hole. The photo process includes exposure and developing steps. The photo process may be performed using one mask or a plurality of the masks. When a single mask is used to form the contact hole, the transmission window  129   a , the convex and concave and the protruded portion  115 , the mask includes an opaque portion, a translucent portion and the transparent portion. In this exemplary embodiment, the opaque portion corresponds to the protruded portion  115 . The translucent portion corresponds to the convex and concave. The transparent portion corresponds to the transmission window  129   a . Alternatively, the mask may include a slit. 
   Referring to  FIG. 5F , a transparent conductive material is deposited on the organic layer  114 , on the passivation layer  116 , in the contact hole and in the transmission window  129   a . The transparent conductive material includes indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZO), etc. In this exemplary embodiment, the transparent conductive material includes indium tin oxide (ITO). The deposited transparent conductive material is partially etched to form the transparent electrode  112 . The transparent electrode  112  is formed in the pixel region  140 . 
   A conductive material having high reflectivity is then deposited on the lower plate  120  having the organic layer  114 . In this exemplary embodiment, the conductive material having the high reflectivity includes aluminum (Al) and neodymium (Nd). The deposited conductivity material having the high reflectivity is partially etched to form the reflection electrode  113  in the reflection region  128 . 
   Alternatively, the reflection electrode  113  may have a multi-layered structure. When the reflection electrode  113  has the multi-layered structure, the reflection electrode  113  includes a molybdenum-tungsten (Mo—W) alloy layer and an aluminum-neodymium (Al—Nd) alloy layer disposed on the molybdenum-tungsten (Mo—W) alloy layer. The reflection electrode  113  is electrically connected to the drain electrode  118   c  through the transparent electrode  112  and the contact hole. 
   Alternatively, the transparent electrode  112  may be formed on the transmission window  129   a  and the inner surface of the opening  130   a  for the multi-domain, and the reflection electrode  113  is formed on the organic layer  114  and the inner surface of the contact hole so that the transparent electrode  112  is electrically connected to the drain electrode  118   c  through the reflection electrode  113 . 
   Therefore, the second substrate  180  having the lower plate  120 , the TFT  119 , the source line  118   a ′, the gate line  118   b ′, the organic layer  114 , the transparent electrode  112  and the reflection electrode  113  is completed. 
   Referring to  FIG. 5G , an opaque material is deposited on the upper plate  100 . The deposited opaque material is partially removed to form the black matrix  102 . Alternatively, the opaque material and photoresist may be coated on the upper plate  100 , and the black matrix  102  may then be formed through the photo process. The photo process includes the exposure and developing steps. The black matrix  102  may also be formed on the lower plate  120 . 
   The color filter  104  is formed on the upper plate  100  having the black matrix  102 . The light having a predetermined wavelength may pass through the color filter  104 . Alternatively, the color filter  104  may also be formed on the lower plate  120 . When the color filter  104  is formed on the lower plate  120 , the color filter may be formed under the organic layer  114 . In this exemplary embodiment, the color filter  104  is formed through the photo process. 
   A transparent conductive material is deposited on the upper plate  100  having the color filter  104  and the black matrix  102  to form the common electrode  106 . The transparent conductive material includes indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), zinc oxide (ZO), etc. 
   An organic material is coated on the common electrode  106 . In this exemplary embodiment, the organic material includes the photoresist. The coated organic material is exposed and developed to form the spacer  110 . The spacer  110  is disposed on the common electrode  106  corresponding to the black matrix  102 . Alternatively, a ball spacer may be disposed on the common electrode  106 . The spacer  110  may also be disposed on the lower plate  120 . 
   Therefore, the first substrate  170  including the upper plate  100 , the black matrix  102 , the color filter  104 , the common electrode  106  and the spacer  110  is completed. 
   Referring to  FIG. 5H , the first substrate  170  is combined with the second substrate  180 . 
   The liquid crystal is injected into a space between the first and second substrates  170  and  180 . The injected liquid crystal is sealed by the sealant (not shown) to form the liquid crystal layer  108 . Alternatively, the liquid crystal may be dropped on the first substrate  170  or the second substrate  180  having the sealant (not shown) so that the first substrate  170  is combined with the second substrate  180  to form the liquid crystal layer  108 . 
   According to the present embodiment, the arrangement of the vertically aligned liquid crystal disposed in the region adjacent to the protruded portion  115 , the stepped portion between the transmission  129   a  and the reflection region  128  and the opening  130   a  for the multi-domain is controlled to form the four domains in the transmission window  129   a.    
     FIG. 6  is a plan view illustrating an LCD apparatus according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 7  is a plan view illustrating multi-domains formed in a transmission window shown in  FIG. 6 .  FIG. 8  is a cross-sectional view taken along the III-III′ line shown in  FIG. 6 . 
   The LCD apparatus of  FIGS. 6 and 8  is same as in  FIGS. 1 to 4  except transmission windows and openings for multi-domains. Thus, the same reference numerals will be used to refer to the same or like parts as those described in  FIGS. 1 to 4  and any further explanation will be omitted. 
   Referring to  FIGS. 6 to 8 , a second substrate  180  includes a pixel region  140  and a blocking region  145 . The pixel region  140  includes two transmission windows  129   b  and a reflection region  128 . In this exemplary embodiment, each of the transmission windows  129   b  has a rectangular shape. Alternatively, the pixel region  140  may include a plurality of the transmission windows. 
   A gate insulating layer  126  is disposed over a lower plate  120  having a gate electrode  118   b . A passivation layer  116  is disposed over the lower plate  120  having a TFT  119 . 
   The passivation layer  116  includes a contact hole and two openings  130   b  for multi-domains. A drain electrode  118   c  is partially exposed through the contact hole. The openings  130   b  for the multi-domains are disposed in the transmission windows  129   b , respectively. In this exemplary embodiment, the openings  130   b  for the multi-domains are disposed on the central line of the transmission windows  129   b , respectively. Each of the openings  130   b  for the multi-domains has a rectangular shape. A side length of each of the openings  130   b  for the multi-domains is represented by a reference numeral ‘w’. The gate insulating layer  126  corresponding to the openings  130   b  for the multi-domains is also partially opened. 
   An organic layer  114  defines the transmission windows  129   b  that are opened. The organic layer  114  includes a contact hole. The drain electrode  118   c  is partially exposed through the contact hole. 
   The transparent electrode  112  is formed on the organic layer  114  corresponding to the pixel region  140 , in the contact hole and in the transmission windows  129   b . A reflection electrode  113  is disposed on the organic layer  114  corresponding to the reflection region  128  so that a light that is provided from an exterior to the LCD apparatus is reflected from the reflection electrode  113 . Alternatively, the reflection electrode  113  may not be formed in a region between the transmission windows  129   b.    
   Referring to  FIG. 7 , four domains are formed in each of the transmission windows  129   b . Each of the openings  130   b  for the multi-domains is disposed on a center of the four domains. The four domains are disposed adjacent to each of the openings  130   c  for the multi-domains. 
   According to the present embodiment, when voltages are applied to the transparent electrode  112 , the reflection electrode  113  and the common electrode  106 , a distorted electric field is formed in a region adjacent to the protruded portion  115  and the spacer  110 , a stepped portion between the transmission window  129   b  and the reflection region  128 , and a region adjacent to each of the openings  130   b  for the multi-domains. When the distorted electric field is applied to the vertically aligned liquid crystal layer  108 , eight domains are formed in the vertically aligned liquid crystal layer  108  so that the viewing angle of the LCD apparatus is improved. 
     FIG. 9  is a plan view illustrating an LCD apparatus according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 
   The LCD apparatus of  FIG. 9  is same as in  FIGS. 6 to 8  except transmission windows and openings for multi-domains. Thus, the same reference numerals will be used to refer to the same or like parts as those described in  FIGS. 6 to 8  and any further explanation will be omitted. 
   Referring to  FIGS. 8 and 9 , a second substrate  180  includes a pixel region  140  and a blocking region  145 . The pixel region  140  includes two transmission windows  129   c  and a reflection region  128 . Each of the transmission windows  129   c  has a hexagonal shape. 
   A passivation layer  116  includes a contact hole and two openings  130   c  for multi-domains. A drain electrode  118   c  is partially exposed through the contact hole. The openings  130   c  for the multi-domains are disposed in the transmission windows  129   c , respectively. In this exemplary embodiment, the openings  130   c  for the multi-domains are disposed on the central line of the transmission windows  129   c . Each of the openings  130   c  for the multi-domains has a hexagonal shape. 
   An organic layer  114  corresponding to the transmission windows  129   c  is opened, and the organic layer  114  includes a contact hole. The drain electrode  118   c  is partially exposed through the contact hole. 
   The transparent electrode  112  is formed on the organic layer  114  corresponding to the pixel region  140 , in the contact hole and in the transmission windows  129   c . A reflection electrode  113  is disposed on the organic layer  114  corresponding to the reflection region  128  so that a light that is externally provided to LCD apparatus is reflected from the reflection electrode  113 . 
   A plurality of domains is formed in each of the transmission windows  129   c . Each of the openings  130   c  for the multi-domains is disposed on a center of the domains. The domains are disposed adjacent to each of the openings  130   c  for the multi-domains. 
   According to the present embodiment, when voltages are applied to the transparent electrode  112 , the reflection electrode  113  and the common electrode  106 , a distorted electric field is formed in a region adjacent to the protruded portion  115  and the spacer  110 , a stepped portion between the transmission window  129   c  and the reflection region  128 , and a region adjacent to each of the openings  130   c  for the multi-domains. When the distorted electric field is applied to the vertically aligned liquid crystal layer  108 , twelve domains are formed in the vertically aligned liquid crystal layer  108  so that the viewing angle of the LCD apparatus is improved. 
     FIG. 10  is a plan view illustrating an LCD apparatus according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 
   The LCD apparatus of  FIG. 10  is same as in  FIGS. 6 to 8  except transmission windows and openings for multi-domains. Thus, the same reference numerals will be used to refer to the same or like parts as those described in  FIGS. 6 to 8  and any further explanation will be omitted. 
   Referring to  FIGS. 8 and 10 , a second substrate  180  includes a pixel region  140  and a blocking region  145 . The pixel region  140  includes two transmission windows  129   d  and a reflection region  128 . Each of the transmission windows  129   d  has an octagonal shape. 
   A passivation layer  116  includes a contact hole and two openings  130   d  for multi-domains. A drain electrode  118   c  is partially exposed through the contact hole. The openings  130   d  for the multi-domains are disposed in the transmission windows  129   d , respectively. In this exemplary embodiment, the openings  130   d  for the multi-domains are disposed on the central line of the transmission windows  129   d . Each of the openings  130   d  for the multi-domains has a hexagonal shape. 
   An organic layer  114  defines the transmission windows  129   d  that is opened, and the organic layer  114  includes a contact hole. The drain electrode  118   c  is partially exposed through the contact hole. 
   The transparent electrode  112  is formed on the organic layer  114  corresponding to the pixel region  140 , in the contact hole and in the transmission windows  129   d . A reflection electrode  113  is disposed on the organic layer  114  corresponding to the reflection region  128  so that a light that is externally provided to the LCD apparatus is reflected from the reflection electrode  113 . 
   A plurality of domains is formed in each of the transmission windows  129   d . Each of the openings  130   d  for the multi-domains is disposed on a center of the domains. The domains are disposed adjacent to each of the openings  130   d  for the multi-domains. 
   According to the present embodiment, when voltages are applied to the transparent electrode  112 , the reflection electrode  113  and the common electrode  106 , a distorted electric field is formed in a region adjacent to the protruded portion  115  and the spacer  110 , a stepped portion between the transmission window  129   d  and the reflection region  128 , and a region adjacent to each of the openings  130   d  for the multi-domains. When the distorted electric field is applied to the vertically aligned liquid crystal layer  108 , sixteen domains are formed in the vertically aligned liquid crystal layer  108  so that the viewing angle of the LCD apparatus is improved. 
   Referring again to  FIGS. 6 ,  9  and  10 , when the transmission windows  129   b ,  129   c  and  129   d  are disposed in one pixel region  140 , the length of the stepped portion between the transmission windows  129   b ,  129   c  and  129   d  and the organic layer  114  increases so that the alignment of the liquid crystal adjacent to the stepped portion may be disturbed, thereby deteriorating the image display quality. 
     FIG. 11  is a plan view illustrating an LCD apparatus according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 12  is a plan view illustrating a multi-domain formed in a transmission window shown in  FIG. 11 .  FIG. 13  is a cross-sectional view taken along the IV-IV′ line shown in  FIG. 11 .  FIG. 14  is a cross-sectional view taken along the V-V′ line shown in  FIG. 11 . 
   The LCD apparatus of  FIGS. 11 to 14  is same as in  FIGS. 1 to 4  except openings for a multi-domain. Thus, the same reference numerals will be used to refer to the same or like parts as those described in  FIGS. 1 to 4  and any further explanation will be omitted. 
   Referring to  FIGS. 11 and 14 , the LCD apparatus includes a first substrate  270 , a second substrate  280  and a liquid crystal layer  208 . 
   The first substrate  270  includes an upper plate  200 , a black matrix  202 , a color filter  204 , a common electrode  206  and a spacer  210 . The second substrate  280  includes a lower plate  220 , a TFT  219 , a source line  218   a ′, a gate line  218   b ′, a gate insulating layer  226 , a passivation layer  216 , a transparent electrode  212  and a reflection electrode  213 . The liquid crystal layer  208  is interposed between the first and second substrates  270  and  280 . 
   The second substrate  280  includes a pixel region  240  and a blocking region  245 . An image is displayed in the pixel region  240 , and internally and externally provided lights are blocked in the blocking region  245 . The pixel region  240  includes a transmission window  229   a  and a reflection region  228 . The internally provided light generated from a backlight assembly passes through the transmission window  229   a , and the light that is externally provided to the LCD apparatus is reflected from the reflection region  228 . For example, the transmission window  229   a  may have a rectangular shape extended in a longitudinal direction in substantially parallel with the source line  218   a′.    
   The upper and lower plates  200  and  220  include a transparent glass. The internally and externally provided lights may pass through the transparent glass. 
   The black matrix  202  is disposed in the reflection region  228  of the upper plate  200  to block the internally and externally provided lights. The black matrix  202  blocks the internally and externally provided lights passing through the blocking region  245  to improve the image display quality. An opaque material comprising photoresist may be coated on the upper substrate  200  to form the black matrix  202  through a photo process. 
   The color filter  204  is formed on the upper plate  200  having the black matrix  202  so that the internally and externally provided lights having a predetermined wavelength may pass through the color filter  204 . 
   The common electrode  206  is formed on the upper substrate  200  having the black matrix  202  and the color filter  204 . 
   The spacer  210  is formed on the upper substrate  200  having the common electrode  206 . The first substrate  270  is spaced apart from the second substrate  280  by the spacer  210 . 
   The TFT  219  is disposed in the reflection region  228  of the lower plate  220 , and includes a source electrode  218   a , a gate electrode  218   b , a drain electrode  218   c  and a semiconductor layer pattern. A driving integrated circuit (not shown) supplies the source electrode  218   a  with a data voltage through the source line  218   a ′, and supplies the gate electrode  218   b  with a gate signal through the gate line  218   b′.    
   The storage capacitor (not shown) is formed on the lower plate  220  to maintain a voltage difference between the reflection electrode  213  and the common electrode  206  and between the transparent electrode  212  and the common electrode  206 . The storage capacitor (not shown) may be an end-gate type or an isolated line type. 
   The gate insulating layer  226  is formed over the lower substrate having the gate electrode  218   b  so that the gate electrode  218   b  is electrically insulated from the source electrode  218   a  and the drain electrode  218   c.    
   The passivation layer  216  is disposed over the lower substrate  220  having the TFT  219 , and includes a contact hole. The drain electrode  218   c  is partially exposed through the contact hole. 
   The passivation layer  216  includes three openings  230   a  for a multi-domain to form the multi-domain in the liquid crystal layer  208 . The openings  230   a  for the multi-domain are disposed in the transmission window  229   a . In this exemplary embodiment, the openings  230   a  for the multi-domain are disposed on the central line of the transmission window  229   a . Each of the openings  230   a  for the multi-domain has a rectangular shape. A side length of each of the openings  230   a  is represented by a reference numeral ‘w’. A distance ‘d’ between a side of one of the openings  230   a  for the multi-domain and a side of the transmission window  229   a  adjacent to each other is substantially equal to an interval ‘i’ between sides of the openings  230   a  for the multi-domain adjacent to each other. The transmission window  229   a  includes a first side that is in substantially parallel with the gate line  218   b ′ and a second side that is in substantially perpendicular to the first side. 
   In this exemplary embodiment, the gate insulating layer  226  corresponding to the openings  230   a  for the multi-domain is also opened. 
   The organic layer  214  is disposed on the lower plate  220  having the TFT  219  and the passivation layer  226  so that the TFT  219  is electrically insulated from the transparent electrode  212  and the reflection electrode  213 . 
   The organic layer  214  includes convex and concave disposed on the upper surface of the organic layer  214 . The convex and concave improve the reflectivity of the reflection electrode  213 . In this exemplary embodiment, the convex and concave improve the reflectivity of the reflection electrode  213  viewed from a front of the liquid crystal display apparatus. A protruded portion  215  is disposed on a portion of the organic layer  214  where the source line  218   a ′ is overlapped with the gate line  218   b′.    
   Referring again to  FIG. 12 , twelve domains are disposed in the transmission window  229   a  to form the multi-domain. Four domains of the twelve domains are disposed adjacent to each of the openings  230   a  for the multi-domain, and a center of the four domains corresponds to the openings  230   a  for the multi-domain. The four domains are disposed adjacent to the openings  230   a  for the multi-domain. 
   The transparent electrode  212  is disposed on the organic layer  214  corresponding to the pixel region  240 , in the contact hole and in the transmission window  229   a  so that the transparent electrode  212  is electrically connected to the drain electrode  218   c.    
   The reflection electrode  213  is disposed on the organic layer  214  corresponding to the reflection region  228 . 
   A first alignment layer (not shown) and a second alignment layer (not shown) are disposed on the first and second substrates  270  and  280 , respectively. The first and second alignment layers (not shown) are rubbed in predetermined directions. 
   The liquid crystal layer  208  is interposed between the first and second substrates  270  and  280 , and sealed by the sealant (not shown). The liquid crystal layer  208  is vertically aligned. 
   When the voltages are applied to the transparent electrode  212 , the reflection electrode  213  and the common electrode  206 , a distorted electric field is formed in a region adjacent to the protruded portion  215  and the spacer  210 , a stepped portion between the transmission window  229   a  and the reflection region  228 , and a region adjacent to each of the openings  230   a  for the multi-domain. When the distorted electric field is applied to the vertically aligned liquid crystal layer  208 , the multi-domain is formed in the vertically aligned liquid crystal layer  208  so that a viewing angle of the LCD apparatus is improved. 
   In addition, a plurality of the openings  130   a  for the multi-domain is disposed in one transmission window  229   a  so that the length of the stepped portion between the transmission window  229   a  and the reflection region  229  is decreased, thereby improving the image display quality. 
   Furthermore, a distance ‘d’ is substantially equal to an interval ‘i’ so that the domains having different shapes are formed, thereby increasing the viewing angle of the LCD apparatus. 
     FIG. 15  is a plan view illustrating an LCD apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 16  is a plan view illustrating a multi-domain formed in a transmission window shown in  FIG. 15 .  FIG. 17  is a cross-sectional view taken along the VI-VI′ line shown in  FIG. 16 . 
   The LCD apparatus of  FIGS. 15 to 17  is same as in  FIGS. 1 to 4  except openings for a multi-domain. Thus, the same reference numerals will be used to refer to the same or like parts as those described in  FIGS. 1 to 4  and any further explanation will be omitted. 
   Referring to  FIGS. 15 and 17 , the LCD apparatus includes a first substrate  270 , a second substrate  280  and a liquid crystal layer  208 . 
   The second substrate  280  includes a lower plate  220 , a TFT  219 , a source line  218   a ′, a gate line  218   b ′, a gate insulating layer  226 , a passivation layer  216 , a transparent electrode  212  and a reflection electrode  213 . 
   The second substrate  280  includes a pixel region  240  and a blocking region  245 . An image is displayed in the pixel region  240 , and internally and externally provided lights are blocked in the blocking region  245 . The pixel region  240  includes a transmission window  229   b  and a reflection region  228 . For example, the transmission window  229   b  may have a rectangular shape extended in a longitudinal direction in substantially parallel with the source line  218   a′.    
   The passivation layer  216  is disposed over the lower substrate  220  having the TFT  219 , and includes a contact hole. The drain electrode  218   c  is partially exposed through the contact hole. 
   The passivation layer  216  includes two openings  230   b  for a multi-domain to form the multi-domain in the liquid crystal layer  208 . The openings  230   b  for the multi-domain are disposed in the transmission window  229   b . In this exemplary embodiment, the openings  230   b  for the multi-domain are disposed on the central line of the transmission window  229   b . Each of the openings  230   b  for the multi-domain has a rectangular shape. A side length of each of the openings  230   b  for the multi-domain is represented by a reference numeral ‘w’. A distance ‘d’ between a side of one of the openings  230   b  for the multi-domain and a side of the transmission window  229   b  adjacent to each other is about a half of an interval ‘i’ between sides of the openings  230   b  for the multi-domain adjacent to each other. 
   In this exemplary embodiment, the gate insulating layer  226  corresponding to the openings  230   b  for the multi-domain is also opened. 
   Referring again to  FIG. 16 , eight domains are disposed in the transmission window  229   b  to form the multi-domain. Four domains of the eight domains are disposed adjacent to each of the openings  230   b  for the multi-domain, and a center of the four domains corresponds to the openings  230   b  for the multi-domain. The four domains are disposed adjacent to the openings  230   b  for the multi-domain. 
   When the voltages are applied to the transparent electrode  212 , the reflection electrode  213  and the common electrode  206 , a distorted electric field is formed in a region adjacent to each of the openings  230   b  for the multi-domain. When the distorted electric field is applied to the vertically aligned liquid crystal layer  208 , the multi-domain is formed in the vertically aligned liquid crystal layer  208  so that the viewing angle of the LCD apparatus is improved. 
   In addition, a plurality of the openings  230   b  for the multi-domain is disposed in one transmission window  229   b  so that the length of the stepped portion between the transmission window  229   b  and the reflection region  229  is decreased, thereby improving the image display quality. 
   Furthermore, the distance ‘d’ is about a half of the interval ‘i’ so that the domains have substantially identical shapes to one another. 
     FIG. 18  is a plan view illustrating an LCD apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 19  is a plan view illustrating a multi-domain formed in a transmission window shown in  FIG. 18 .  FIG. 20  is a cross-sectional view taken along the line VII-VII′ shown in  FIG. 18 . 
   The LCD apparatus of  FIGS. 18 to 20  is same as in  FIGS. 1 to 4  except openings for a multi-domain. Thus, the same reference numerals will be used to refer to the same or like parts as those described in  FIGS. 1 to 4  and any further explanation will be omitted. 
   Referring to  FIGS. 18 to 20 , the transmission window  229   c  has a rectangular shape that is extended in a longitudinal direction in substantially parallel with a source line  218   a′.    
   A passivation layer  216  is disposed over a lower substrate  220  having a TFT  219 , and includes a contact hole. A drain electrode  218   c  is partially exposed through the contact hole. 
   The passivation layer  216  includes three openings  230   c  for a multi-domain to form the multi-domain in the liquid crystal layer  208 . The openings  230   c  for the multi-domain are disposed in the transmission window  229   c . The openings  230   c  for the multi-domain are arranged in substantially parallel with a central line of the transmission window  229   c . Each of the openings  230   c  for the multi-domain has an extended rectangular shape that is extended in the longitudinal direction. A side length of each of the openings  230   c  for the multi-domain in the longitudinal direction in substantially parallel with the source line  218   a ′ is represented by a reference numeral ‘w 1 ’, and a side length of each of the openings  230   c  in a horizontal direction in substantially parallel with the gate line  218   b ′ is represented by a reference numeral ‘w 2 ’. A distance ‘d’ between a side of one of the openings  230   c  for the multi-domain and a side of the transmission window  229   c  adjacent to each other is substantially identical to an interval ‘I″’ between sides of the openings  230   c  for the multi-domain adjacent to each other. 
   In this exemplary embodiment, each of the openings  230   c  for the multi-domain has a substantially identical shape to the transmission window  229   c.    
   When three openings  230   c  for the multi-domain are disposed in the transmission window  229   c , and each of the openings  230   c  for the multi-domain has a substantially identical shape to the transmission window  229   c , the longitudinal length and the horizontal length of the transmission window  229   c  are represented by ‘2d+2i″+3w 1 ’ and ‘2d+w 2 ’. 
   Equation 1 represents the ratio of the longitudinal length 2d+2i″+3w 1  of the transmission window  229   c  to the horizontal length 2d+w 2  of the transmission window  229   c  and the ratio of the longitudinal side length w 1  of each of the openings  230   c  for the multi-domain to the horizontal side length w 2  of each of the openings  230   c  for the multi-domain.
 
Equation 1
 
 d=i″, 2 d+ 2 i″+ 3 w 1:2 d+w 2 =w 1 :w 2  Equation 1
 
   When the longitudinal length 2d+2i″+3w 1  of the transmission window  229   c  and the horizontal length 2d+w 2  of the transmission window  229   c  are about 210 μm and about 70 μm, respectively, the longitudinal side length w 1  of each of the openings  230   c  for the multi-domain and the horizontal side length w 2  of each of the openings  230   c  for the multi-domain are about 30 μm and about 10 μm, respectively. 
   Alternatively, the transmission window  229   c  may also include a plurality of the openings  230   c  for the multi-domain. When the number of the openings  230   c  in one transmission window  229   c  is ‘n’, the longitudinal length and the horizontal length of the transmission window  229   c  are represented by ‘2d+(n−1)i″+3w 1 ’ and ‘2d+w 2 ’, respectively. 
   Equation 2 represents the ratio of the longitudinal length 2d+(n−1)i″+3w 1  of the transmission window  229   c  to the horizontal length 2d+w 2  of the transmission window  229   c  and the ratio of the longitudinal side length w 1  of each of the openings  230   c  to the horizontal side length w 2  of each of the openings  230   c.  
 
Equation 2.
 
 d=i″, 2 d +( n− 1) i″+ 3 w 1:2 d+w 2 =w 1 :w 2  Equation 2
 
   In this exemplary embodiment, the gate insulating layer  226  corresponding to the openings  230   c  for the multi-domain is also opened. 
   Referring again to  FIG. 19 , twelve domains are disposed in the transmission window  229   c  to form the multi-domain. Four domains of the twelve domains are disposed adjacent to each of the openings  230   c  for the multi-domain, and a center of the four domains corresponds to the openings  230   c  for the multi-domain. The four domains are disposed adjacent to the openings  230   c  for the multi-domain. The domains disposed upper/lower portions of the openings  230   c  for the multi-domain are horizontally extended, and the domains disposed left/right portions of the openings  230   c  for the multi-domain are longitudinally extended. 
   When the voltages are applied to the transparent electrode  212 , the reflection electrode  213  and the common electrode  206 , a distorted electric field is formed in a region adjacent to each of the openings  230   c  for the multi-domain. When the distorted electric field is applied to the vertically aligned liquid crystal layer  208 , the multi-domain is formed in the vertically aligned liquid crystal layer  208  so that the viewing angle of the LCD apparatus is improved. 
   In addition, each of the openings  230   c  for the multi-domain has a substantially identical shape to the transmission window  229   c  so that the domains have various shapes. 
     FIG. 21  is a plan view illustrating an LCD apparatus according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 22  is a cross-sectional view taken along the line VIII-VIII′ shown in  FIG. 21 . 
   The LCD apparatus of  FIGS. 21 and 22  is same as in  FIGS. 1 to 4  except openings for a multi-domain. Thus, the same reference numerals will be used to refer to the same or like parts as those described in  FIGS. 1 to 4  and any further explanation will be omitted. 
   Referring to  FIGS. 21 and 22 , the LCD apparatus includes a first substrate  370 , a second substrate  380  and a liquid crystal layer  308 . 
   The first substrate  370  includes an upper plate  300 , a black matrix  302 , a color filter  304 , an overcoating layer  305 , a common electrode  306  and a spacer  310 . 
   The second substrate  380  includes a lower plate  320 , a TFT  319 , a gate insulating layer  326 , a passivation layer  316 , a transparent electrode  312  and a reflection electrode  313 . The second substrate  380  further includes a pixel region  340  and a blocking region  345 . 
   The pixel region  340  includes a reflection region  349  and a transmission window  329 . The light that is externally provided to the LCD apparatus is reflected from the reflection region  349 , and the internally provided light generated from a backlight assembly (not shown) passes through the transmission window  329 . 
   The TFT  319  and the reflection electrode  313  are disposed in the reflection region  328 , and the transmission electrode  312  is disposed in the transmission window  329 . 
   The blocking region  345  is disposed adjacent to the pixel region  340 . A source line  318   a ′, a gate line  318   b ′, a driving integrated circuit (not shown), etc., are disposed in the blocking region  345 . 
   The black matrix  302  is disposed on the upper plate  300  corresponding to the blocking region  345 . 
   The color filter  304  is formed on the upper plate  300  so that the internally and externally provided light having a predetermined wavelength may pass through the color filter  304 . The color filter  304  includes a slit  303  disposed at a position corresponding to the reflection electrode  313 . 
   The overcoating layer  305  that includes a first overcoating portion  305   a  and a second overcoating portion  305   b  and the common electrode  306  are alternately disposed on the upper plate  300  having the black matrix  302  and the color filter  304 . The common electrode  306   b  corresponding to the transmission window  329  is disposed on the first overcoating portion  305   a  that is disposed on the color filter  304 . The common electrode  306   a  corresponding to the blocking region  345  and the reflection region  328  is disposed between the color filter  304  and the second overcoating portion  305   b.    
   A height of the common electrode  306   b  corresponding to the transmission window  329  is different from that of the common electrode  306   a  corresponding to the blocking region  345  and the reflection region  328  so that the intensity of the electric field formed in the liquid crystal layer  308  corresponding to the transmission window  329  is different from that of the electric field formed in the liquid crystal layer  308  corresponding to the reflection region  328 , although a cell-gap of the liquid crystal layer  308  corresponding to the reflection region  328  is substantially equal to a cell-gap of the liquid crystal layer  308  corresponding to the transmission window  329 . 
   The overcoating layer  305  protects the color filter  304  from impurities, particles, etc., and planarizes the stepped portion formed by the black matrix  302  and the color filter  304 . 
   The spacer  310  is formed on the upper plate  300  having the black matrix  302 , the color filter  304 , the overcoating layer  305  and the common electrode  306 . 
   The TFT  319  is disposed on the lower plate  320 , and includes a source electrode  318   a , a gate electrode  318   b , a drain electrode  318   c  and a semiconductor layer pattern. 
   A storage capacitor (not shown) is disposed on the lower plate  320  to maintain the voltage difference between the common electrode  306  and the reflection electrode  313  and between the common electrode  306  and the transparent electrode  312 . 
   The gate insulating layer  326  is disposed over the lower plate  320  having the gate electrode  318   b  so that the gate electrode  318   b  is electrically insulated from the source electrode  318   a  and the drain electrode  318   c.    
   The passivation layer  316  is disposed over the lower plate  320  having the TFT  319 , and includes a contact hole. The drain electrode  318   c  is partially exposed through the contact hole. 
   The passivation layer  316  and the gate insulating layer  326  include three openings  330  for a multi-domain. The openings  330  for the multi-domain form the multi-domain in the liquid crystal layer  308 . The openings  330  for the multi-domain are disposed on the central line of the transmission window  329 . Each of the openings  330  for the multi-domain has a rectangular shape. A side length of each of the openings  330  for the multi-domain is represented by a reference numeral ‘w’. A distance ‘d’ between a side of one of the openings  330  for the multi-domain and a side of the transmission window  329  adjacent to each other is substantially equal to an interval ‘i’ between sides of the openings  330  for the multi-domain adjacent to each other. 
   The transparent electrode  312  is formed on the passivation layer  316  and the inner surface of the contact hole that partially exposes the passivation layer  316  so that the transparent electrode  312  is electrically connected to the drain electrode  318   c.    
   The reflection electrode  313  is disposed on the passivation layer  316  and a portion of the transparent electrode  312  so that the externally provided light is reflected from the reflection electrode  313 . 
   The liquid crystal layer  308  is interposed between the first and second substrates  370  and  380  so that the liquid crystal layer  308  is sealed by a sealant (not shown). 
   A first alignment layer (not shown) and a second alignment layer (not shown) are disposed on the first and second substrates  370  and  380 , respectively, to align the liquid crystal layer  308 . The first and second alignment layers (not shown) may be rubbed in predetermined directions, respectively. 
   According to the present embodiment, the height of the common electrode  306   b  corresponding to the transmission window  329  is different from the height of the common electrode  306   a  corresponding to the blocking region  345  and the reflection region  328  so that the optical characteristics of the liquid crystal layer  308  corresponding to the reflection region  328  and the liquid crystal layer  308  corresponding to the transmission window  329  are optimized. 
   According to the present invention, the insulating layer includes the openings for the multi-domain so that the viewing angle and the image display quality of the LCD apparatus are improved. 
   Also, the openings for the multi-domain are disposed on the second substrate to form the multi-domain having improved characteristics, although the first substrate is misaligned with the second substrate. For example, the domains in the multi-domain may have substantially identical shapes or different shapes. 
   Furthermore, the openings for the multi-domain are formed from a same layer as the contact hole so that the manufacturing process is simplified and the manufacturing cost is decreased. 
   In addition, a plurality of the openings of the multi-domain may be formed in one transmission window so that the length of the stepped portion adjacent to a side of the transmission window is decreased, thereby improving the image display quality of the LCD apparatus. 
   Furthermore, the height of the common electrode corresponding to the transmission window may be different from the height of the common electrode corresponding to the blocking region and the reflection region so that the optical characteristics of the liquid crystal layer are optimized. 
   This invention has been described with reference to the exemplary embodiments. It is evident, however, that many alternative modifications and variations will be apparent to those having skill in the art in light of the foregoing description. Accordingly, the present invention embraces all such alternative modifications and variations as fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.