UK trade group the Personal Computer Association (PCA) has started a campaign to smarten up the LCD industry.

The PCA has befriended its twin in the US, the North American Systems Builders Association (NASBA), and together they want to create a standard for the number of faulty pixels allowed on LCD screens.

It is normal to find the odd pixel not working, but a group of these offending dots bunched together can result in pesky spots appearing on screens. According to NASBA executive director Robert Danese, the problem is expected to get worse as LCD prices drop and demand rises. Hence the campaign.

The PC trade groups have contacted the major LCD OEMs, which say they are willing to investigate the matter. The duo also wants to survey consumers to determine what they think a reasonable level of faulty pixels on screens would be. They then want to try and persuade or pressure the industry to establish a standard.

"Because users are not generally proactively advised prior to purchase that they may receive product that has non-functioning pixels, this can become a source of considerable conflict should they receive such product," commented Keith Warburton, head of the PCA.

The PCA and Computing Suppliers Federation will hold an open meeting in the UK on April 3 to discuss the issue. If you fancy attending, contact Sam Giblin on 01785 769090. ®

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