Abstract: A unitary display and sensing device integrates liquid crystal display module elements of a liquid crystal display module for detecting input on a flat panel display screen with the capability for digitizing the detected inputs. In accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention, display elements of a liquid crystal display module are modified to sense input on the display screen. An electrical signal is applied to modified display elements of the liquid crystal display module so that contact with a surface portion of the display screen produces an output signal indicative of its location. The integrated display and sensing device is active matrix addressed for finger input, but may also incorporate display systems for active pen input.

Abstract: A low current d.c. operated liquid crystal display comprises a liquid crystal material composition having impurities therein to effect a current density at 25.degree. C in the range of 0.5 to 3.0 .mu.a/cm.sup.2. In one aspect of the invention, the liquid crystal composition is provided by purifying the material to 99.95 percent or greater and then adding controlled amounts of preselected impurities so that the total amount of impurities in the liquid crystalline composition comprises 1/2 to 2 percent by weight. In another aspect of the invention, the liquid crystalline material is initially prepared so that it has a purity in the range of 98.0 to 99.5 percent by weight. An adsorbed layer may be formed on the electrodes to enhance electrical charge injection. In one specific embodiment, the liquid crystalline composition is utilized to form a display panel that is directly compatible with 12 volts d.c., which is typically available in automotive vehicles.