What is COB technology?
A sustainable pixel technology for a greener future
COB, short for Chip-on-Board, is a cutting-edge LED display technology. In the COB LED manufacturing process, LEDs are integrated directly onto the Printed Circuit Board (PCB), almost as if they are printed onto the surface.
This unique integration sets COB apart from other LED technologies like SMD and Flip-Chip which are soldered/mounted onto the PCB.
One of COB's remarkable advantages (other than its exceptional energy saving properties) is its ability to package individual LEDs in extremely close proximity. This feature enables the creation of displays with even finer pixel pitches, leading to higher resolution and exceptional visual quality.
Energy efficiency at its core...
benefits of COB technology
Up to 40% Energy Savings
COB LEDs are known for their exceptional energy efficiency. They can provide up to 40% energy savings compared to traditional SMD displays of the same pixel pitch and size.
These energy saving properties are thanks to the reduction in electrical resistance in each pixel, due to its mounting method. With reduced resistance also comes a significant reduction in heat output, another form of unwanted energy wastage.
Thanks to these properties, COB displays are a more environmentally friendly solution for ESG conscious businesses.
Enhanced Thermal Management
Due to the reduction in componentry in each pixel and the removal of copper bonding wires, COB displays have significantly less internal resistance.
Did you know? There are over 12 million copper bonding wires in a 1080p SMD display!
This improved thermal management not only contributes to energy efficiency but also results in a display that remains cool to the touch, potentially eliminating the need for extra cooling in the room or screen location.
Increased Resolution & Colour Performance
COB displays allow for tighter pixel pitches (<P1.0), resulting in higher-resolution displays.
COB often provides better colour rendering capabilities (as standard) compared to some SMD displays. They can accurately reproduce wider colour gamuts, making them suitable for applications where color quality is critical, such as home theater, XR, broadcast, and production.
Up to 1,000,000:1 Contrast
The greater the contrast ratio, the clearer the image!
Due to their smaller pixel sizes, COB displays can group pixels closer together, reducing the space between each pixel. Typically, the larger the gaps between pixels, the worse the contrast ratio.
COB displays use a resin similar to GOB (glue-on-board) to encapsulate each pixel. This manufacturing process further contributes to COB's improved contrast ratios, as the colour and consistency of the resin are controlled.
Improved Reliability & Durability
COB LEDs are renowned for their robust construction. The mounting method of COB LEDs involves directly bonding the LED chip to the substrate, which results in a sturdy and resilient connection.
Moreover, COB often feature resin encapsulation similar to GOB (Glue-on-board). This resin encapsulation provides an extra layer of protection, shielding the LED chip from environmental factors, moisture, and physical damage.
Where can COB MicroLED displays be used?
COB LED display technology is poised to replace indoor SMD fine-pitch technology in the coming years due to its numerous benefits.
At LED Studio, we've made significant investments in our COB production lines because we believe that new technology shouldn't always come at a higher cost.
Use Case Examples:
Home Cinema & Multimedia Displays:
COB MicroLED displays are a top choice for home cinema enthusiasts and multimedia rooms. Their exceptional colour capabilities, high resolution, rich contrast and cinematic picture quality create immersive entertainment experiences like no other.
Energy-Efficient Commercial Displays:
COB MicroLED displays are ideal for businesses seeking to reduce their carbon footprint & lower energy consumption. They provide an energy-efficient alternative to traditional SMD displays.
Studio & Broadcast Displays:
Studios, including photography studios, film production studios and broadcast, benefit from COB MicroLED displays' precise colour reproduction and tight pixel pitches for accurate content creation and editing.
Presentations & Conference Displays :
In corporate boardrooms, meeting rooms, and conference venues, COB MicroLED displays deliver sharp and vibrant presentations, contributing to effective communication and collaboration.
Art Galleries, Museums & Immersive spaces:
COB MicroLED displays are a preferred option for showcasing art and exhibits in museums, or captivating content in immersive spaces due to the close viewing of the audiences.
High-End Gaming Setups:
Gamers looking for an immersive and visually stunning gaming experience can rely on COB MicroLED displays. Their high resolution and vibrant colours enhance gaming visuals, making them suitable for gaming rooms and esports arenas.
Extended Reality (XR) Applications:
COB MicroLED displays are well-suited for augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and mixed reality (MR) applications. Their sharp and accurate visuals enhance the realism and immersion in XR experiences.
Interesting fact!
Did you know that an SMD 130" P1.5 1080p display can use up to 1.1kW of energy per hour?
In contrast, a COB display of the same size and resolution can use as little as 0.5kW hourly. This represents significant savings, not only on your energy bills but also in reducing your carbon footprint.