Review of in-plane switching technology as summary of an epoch-making technology in LCDs

We present an overview of in-plane switching (IPS) technologies in terms of historical background, nascent fundamental findings and developments, breakthroughs in addressing display performance issues, and the evolution of materials and device structures. The focus is on how IPS technology has been developed along with changes in the required display characteristics as the target display products continue to evolve. In addition, innovative manufacturing processes, such as photo-alignment technology, have led to the further evolution of IPS technology. Starting with the fundamental frameworks at an early stage, the evolution and development of IPS technology are described as extensively as possible.