Michieal L. Jones

New phosphor technology removes the limitation on resolution and brightness for projection television

This paper presents an update on the progress to commercialize a new unique replacement for the powder phosphor currently used in projection cathode ray tubes (CRTs). The new technology designated Resonant Microcavity Phosphor (RMP) is now being put into CRTs similar to those currently used in commercial rear projection televisions. This new technology allows resolution, brightness and dynamic range well beyond what is possible with powder phosphor. It is intended that this paper give engineers a basic understanding of the characteristics and advantages of the RMP technology. Some of the key reasons for developing a new phosphor for the projection CRT are presented. Current and future RMP-CRT performance and some other applications for RMP technology are also reviewed.

Progress toward making full-color RMP-CRTs

Two years ago, at the SPIE AeroSense 1999 Conference, Quantum Vision reported on a new technology that we predicted would become the best choice for projection displays. Quantum Vision has now developed this alternate approach, the resonant microcavity phosphor [RMP] for use in CRTs. The Quantum Vision patented technology provides a robust, high technology replacement for the powder phosphor currently used in most CRTs. This emissive component is based upon a rugged thin film phosphor, capable of generating high brightness, extended lifetime, expanded dynamic range and higher resolution images. Current measurements and theoretical predictions indicate that RMP-CRT projection displays can lead to much higher light throughput and electron beam limited resolution, while having a cost profile consistent with high volume CRT products. Other features make it ideal for use with holographic and diffractive optical elements. Data is presented demonstrating the characteristics of red, blue and green RMP-CRT faceplates operated on a demountable CRT test station design by Quantum Vision.

Progress toward prototype high-definition video-projection CRTs using resonant microcavity phosphor display technology

This paper presents an update on the progress to commercialize a new, unique replacement for the powder phosphor currently used in projection cathode ray tubes (CRTs). The new display technology designated Resonant Microcavity Phosphor display (RMP), is now being tested for use in CRTs similar to those currently used in commercial rear projection televisions. This new technology allows resolution, brightness and dynamic range well beyond what is possible with current powder phosphor approaches. Recent test data on operational red, blue and green RMPs faceplates will be presented. Additionally, this paper gives engineers a basic understanding of the characteristics and advantages of the RMP display technology. Some of the key reasons for the need for a new phosphor for the projection CRT are presented. Current and future RMP Display performance is presented. Another future application for RMP technology is as a narrow-band electronically addressable light source, an economical replacement for laser scanning. The technology also has many other applications where a uniform, large area, narrow-band light source or confined beam (non-Lambertian), electron excited light generation is required.