US computer firm Compaq Computer Corporation has announced that it has entered into strategic relationships with two suppliers to develop flat panel computer monitors. Compaq will cooperate with Japan…
US computer firm Compaq Computer Corporation has announced that it has entered into strategic relationships with two suppliers to develop flat panel computer monitors. Compaq will cooperate with Japanese monitor provider Mitsubishi Electric and its subsidiary, Advanced Display Inc., of which Asahi Glass is a 20% shareholder, to develop the new displays. This partnership, claims Compaq, will enable it to design, specify and develop a unique range of high quality panels. Compaq believes the partnership will enable it to drive down LCD monitor prices by undercutting other leading vendors as well as offering market-leading features such as brighter screens, higher-resolution displays and built-in multimedia speakers and microphones. “We“ve spent a great deal of time talking with our largest accounts and potential customers to understand their specific display needs.” said Neil Dagger, options product marketing manager at Compaq Computer Ltd. “The relationship with Mitsubishi Electric and Advanced Display Inc. uniquely positions Compaq to bring to market a product that provides the latest technology and meets customer requirements, all at a very competitive price.” Takashi Mivata, General Manager, Display and Imaging Devices Division, Mitsubishi Electric added: “Our leadership in the flat panel research and development area combined with Compaq“s unparalleled knowledge of customer requirements and its relationships with significant worldwide corporations makes this a perfect marriage.” Flat panel monitors are expected to be popular in a number of spheres: financial services users, such as stockbrokers, who often need up to three monitors, will benefit from the display“s thin design, allowing it to be placed in areas not possible with traditional monitors. Additionally, industries such as healthcare look to flat panel displays because they do not present magnetic interference with medical equipment. Demand is also expected to be driven by the growth in videoconferencing.