Content last revised on December 28, 2025
Reliability Beyond Limits: The EL640.400-CD4 FRA Electroluminescent Display
The EL640.400-CD4 FRA represents the pinnacle of Thin Film Electroluminescent (TFEL) technology, designed specifically for applications where traditional LCDs fail. In environments defined by extreme temperatures, high vibration, and the need for instantaneous response, this 640 x 400 resolution display offers a solid-state solution that ensures mission-critical data remains visible under the harshest conditions. As a specialist distributor, we recognize that the EL640.400-CD4 FRA is not just a screen; it is a critical safety component for aerospace, defense, and heavy industrial HMI systems.
Top Specifications: 640 x 400 Pixels | TFEL Technology | -40°C to +85°C Operating Range. Key Benefits: Instantaneous cold-start performance and immunity to vibration-induced motion blur. How does the EL640.400-CD4 FRA handle sub-zero environments compared to standard TFTs? Unlike liquid-based displays, the TFEL technology in the EL640.400-CD4 FRA remains fully functional at -40°C without the need for integrated heaters or extended warm-up times. For military-grade platforms requiring absolute optical reliability, the EL640.400-CD4 FRA is the definitive choice for long-term deployment.
Key Parameter Overview
Decoding the Specs for Enhanced Environmental Resilience
The technical architecture of the EL640.400-CD4 FRA is optimized for high-density information display within a ruggedized envelope. Below are the primary specifications as defined by the manufacturer’s engineering documentation.
| Parameter | Technical Specification |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Lumineq (formerly Planar) |
| Resolution | 640 x 400 (VGA variant) |
| Display Technology | Thin Film Electroluminescent (TFEL) |
| Pixel Pitch | 0.30 x 0.30 mm |
| Active Area | 192 x 120 mm |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C to +85°C |
| Interface Type | Digital 4-bit / 8-bit |
| Luminance | Typical 50 cd/m² (Areal) |
| Input Voltage | +5V DC and +12V DC |
Application Scenarios & Value
Achieving System-Level Benefits in High-Reliability Power and Control
For 690V drives prioritizing thermal margin, this 1600V module is the optimal choice. While the EL640.400-CD4 FRA is an emissive display rather than a power module, its engineering value lies in its ability to survive the electromagnetic interference (EMI) often found in high-power environments like Variable Frequency Drives (VFD) and Solar Inverter control rooms. Its solid-state design means there are no fluid components that can leak or freeze, a common failure mode in standard LQ064V3DG06 or AA084VC03 LCD units when pushed to environmental limits.
In aerospace applications, the EL640.400-CD4 FRA is frequently utilized for cockpit instrumentation. A specific engineering challenge in aviation is "motion blur" during high-G maneuvers or heavy vibration. Because TFEL technology has a response time of less than 1 ms, the EL640.400-CD4 FRA eliminates the ghosting effects seen in slower liquid crystal displays, ensuring that flight data is readable during rapid transitions. This performance is critical for maintaining situational awareness in medical HMI systems and heavy machinery controls where precision is non-negotiable.
Technical Deep Dive
The Physics of Solid-State Light: Why TFEL Outperforms in Extremes
The EL640.400-CD4 FRA operates on the principle of impact ionization. Within the display, a thin layer of phosphor is sandwiched between two dielectric layers and a grid of electrodes. When a high-voltage AC field is applied, electrons are accelerated into the phosphor, causing it to emit light. Think of it like a lightning bolt contained within a glass sandwich; there are no moving parts and no liquid molecules to align. This makes the EL640.400-CD4 FRA virtually immune to the effects of shock and vibration that would typically cause "pooling" or "bruising" on a standard TFT-LCD.
From a system integration perspective, the FRA suffix signifies a specific mounting frame designed for front-panel installation, simplifying the mechanical assembly for engineers. For more information on display selection for challenging environments, consult our guide on Industrial Display & HMI Solutions.
Industry Insights & Strategic Advantage
Navigating the Transition to Ruggedized Industrial 4.0
As industrial automation moves toward more hazardous and decentralized environments, the demand for displays that meet IEC 61800-3 EMC standards and extreme thermal cycling has surged. The EL640.400-CD4 FRA provides a strategic advantage for OEMs looking to reduce the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) in remote installations. While the initial investment in TFEL may be higher than consumer-grade LCDs, the elimination of heaters, cooling fans, and frequent replacements makes it the superior choice for long-term sustainability.
Furthermore, the EL640.400-CD4 FRA is a critical legacy component. Many systems in the oil and gas industry depend on this specific form factor and interface. Our role as a distributor is to empower your procurement team with the data needed to maintain these high-value assets. You can explore more about lifecycle management in our Industrial vs. Consumer Displays analysis.
FAQ
How does the power consumption of the EL640.400-CD4 FRA compare to an LED-backlit LCD?
The EL640.400-CD4 FRA is an emissive technology, meaning it only consumes power for pixels that are turned on. In typical HMI applications with high-contrast text and black backgrounds, its power efficiency is comparable to or better than a high-brightness LCD that requires a constant backlight.
Can the EL640.400-CD4 FRA withstand direct sunlight exposure?
While the typical luminance is 50 cd/m², TFEL displays have an extremely high contrast ratio and a wide viewing angle of >160°. For outdoor use, an optical bonding layer or a circular polarizer is often recommended to maintain readability in direct sunlight.
Does this display require high-voltage safety precautions during installation?
The display generates high internal voltages to drive the EL layers; however, these are contained within the module. Engineers should follow standard ESD and handling procedures as outlined in the Lumineq technical manual to ensure safety and longevity.
What is the typical lifetime (MTBF) of the EL640.400-CD4 FRA?
TFEL displays are known for their exceptional longevity, often exceeding 50,000 to 100,000 hours of operation before reaching 70% of original brightness, with no sudden failure modes common to backlight tubes or LEDs.
For engineers seeking to integrate the EL640.400-CD4 FRA into new or existing systems, our technical team provides the data transparency required for rigorous validation. By prioritizing facts over marketing, we support your goal of building more reliable, efficient, and durable industrial solutions.
