A new mode LCD based on in-plane switching of LC director configuration has been developed. The LC cell consists of two types of substrates, one of which has a near-zero azimuthal anchoring surface and electrodes and the other has a strong anchoring surface rubbed in the direction parallel to the comb-shaped electrodes. In the voltage-on state, the LC cell starts to arrange the LC director in twist configuration at extremely low threshold voltage and show high light transmittance in the whole pixel area including above the electrodes. The new mode LCD using this LC cell will exhibit higher transmittance and contrast ratio at lower driving voltage than the conventional IPS-LCDs; however, in the voltage off state, it involves a longer response time.
