Following Panasonic, Sharp and Sony, Samsung comes up with a 55-inch 1080p panel with a true 240Hz refresh rate capable of displaying content in 3D using a set of "shutter" glasses. The S.Korean company is showcasing the new LCD panel at the IMID 2009 conference at Seoul (Oct. 13-16)

Using a set of "shutter" glasses, which rapidly alternate between blocking out the left and right eye, the set is capable of delivering the full 240Hz quality.

LCD shutter glasses are glasses used in conjunction with a display screen to create the illusion of a three dimensional image, an example of stereoscopy. Glass containing liquid crystal and a polarizing filter has the property that it becomes dark when voltage is applied, but otherwise is transparent. The glasses are controlled by an IR emitter that sends IR signal. The Glasses alternately darken over one eye, and then the other, in synchronization with the refresh rate of the screen, while the display alternately displays different perspectives for each eye, using a technique called Alternate-frame sequencing.

Samsung claims that the new eliminates "ghosting" in fast-moving scenes, which is a problem with other 3D display technologies. In addition, flicker is not be noticeable since the panel offers a very high 240Hz refresh rate.



Sony and Panasonic have already showcased their products that can bring the 3D technology from cinemas into homes.

At CEATEC, Japan's biggest information technology and electronics fair. Sony unveiled a 3D compatible 52" Full HD BRAVIA LCD TV, allowing visitors to enjoy 3D content using active shutter glasses.

At the same event, Panasonic had on display a 50-inch high-definition 3D plasma TV, which is expected to be delivered sometime in 2010.