US and Korean Groups Sign Cooperative Flat-Panel Display Pact

Charles T. Troy

SAN JOSE, Calif. -- In a effort to boost global cooperation on standards and manufacturing procedures in the flat-panel display market, the US Display Consortium (USDC) and the Electronic Display Industrial Research Association of Korea (EDIRAK) have agreed to share resources and information.

"Even competitors should cooperate on common issues," said Malcolm Thompson, chairman of USDC's governing board. "This includes setting industry standards and establishing a strong manufacturing infra- structure," he added.

USDC's focus has been on infrastructure developments and marketing, while EDIRAK has leaned toward technology issues. Twice a year, sessions are planned where working groups can thrash out issues such as cooperative research.

The accord is said to be consistent with a broader agreement between the US Department of Defense and the Republic of Korea's Ministry of National Defense. USDC said it will continue to devote the public portion of funds it receives from the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency to developing a US-based flat-panel display equipment and materials infrastructure. The agreement, USDC insisted, is a separate opportunity for members of the public/private group.