3M Touch Systems demonstrates DST, introduces capacitive solution

Dispersive Signal Technology (DST), 3M Touch Systems’ recently unveiled touch solution, was demonstrated for the first time on 30-in. and 40-in. touchscreens integrated on LCDs at last month’s Global Gaming Exposition in Las Vegas.

By Control Engineering Staff November 11, 2004

ClearTek II touchscreen features scratch-resistant protection, enhanced anti-glare properties, and robust performance in harsh environments.

Dispersive Signal Technology (DST), 3M Touch Systems ’ recently unveiled touch solution, was demonstrated for the first time on 30-in. and 40-in. touchscreens integrated on LCDs at last month’s Global Gaming Exposition in Las Vegas. The products are expected to be available in 2005.

Termed a “different approach to touch” by the manufacturer, DST recognizes touch through vibrations made to the substrate. By measuring specific vibrational energy, it eliminates issues associated with screen contaminants and surface scratches, while offering enhanced palm rejection—that is, allowing accurate touch recognition while an object rests on the screen. MicroTouch DST substrate can be glass, tempered glass, glass integrated with 3M’s Vikuiti films, or acrylic. The technology, said Doug Kuller, 3M Touch Systems’ product manager, offers new ways to implement touch while offering superior optics, touch input flexibility, and durability.

In other touchscreen news, the company also announced a new generation of capacitive touch systems. ClearTek II Profile and MicroTouch Software Suite, supported by EX II electronics foundation, includes software and driver enhancements and a new capacitive touchscreen design. Touchscreen incorporates a proprietary scratch-resistant protection, features enhanced anti-glare properties, and provides robust performance in harsh environments. A special screen coating balances light transmission and anti-glare properties for more vibrant optical characteristics and a 91% light transmission.For more on these touchscreen technologies, click here .Read more from on Control Engineering on this technology:

“ SID 2004: Touchscreen technology, full-color system-on-glass, touch application among conference highlights ”

“ Advancements propel touchscreens to HMI forefront ”

—Jeanine Katzel, senior editor, Control Engineering, jkatzel@reedbusiness.com