DisplayPort processes 2,560 x 1,600 pixels of graphics data at up to 10 bits of color depth, or 1.07 billion colors. The interface is intended as a replacement for the Digital Visual Interface (DVI), Low Voltage Differential Signaling (LVDS) and, eventually, VGA standards. It supports both internal notebook PCs and external connector links between PCs and monitors.

Samsung's DisplayPort-enabled 30-inch LCD was a joint undertaking with Genesis Microchip Inc. (Santa Clara, Calif). It requires a single DisplayPort interface, instead of the two DVI ports now used. One chip can transmit graphics data at 10.8 Gbits/second, a feat that would normally require at least three DVI or four LVDS interface chips.

The new LCD also taps the company's proprietary Super Patterned Vertical Alignment (S-PVA) liquid-crystal technology to enable a 180-degree viewing angle and 300 nits (candela/meter²) of brightness.

Mass production is scheduled to begin in the second quarter of 2008.

"We have received many inquiries from computer integrators interested in DisplayPort-based LCD panels, which prompted an acceleration of our R&D for this first DisplayPort LCD panel," Brian Berkeley, vice president of Samsung's LCD business, said in a statement. Berkeley is leading the company's DisplayPort development efforts.

The DisplayPort interface is sanctioned by the Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA). Samsung was the only LCD panel maker that participated in the original DisplayPort working group, formed in 2004.