Abstract: Methods of and apparatus for detecting pixel element defects in flat panel display (FPDs). Floating pixel elements (fpes) of uncompleted active plates in a manufacturing process are activated with high frequency AC test signals. In response to the activation signal, a high frequency output signal is produced by a voltage divider formed by an impedance of the fpe under test and an impedance presented by high frequency elements (e.g. stray capacitances) associated with the fpe under test. A signal characteristic (e.g. the amplitude) of the output signal is compared to an expected characteristic to determine the presence of pixel element defects. The methods of the present invention may be performed prior to completion of the active plate, e.g., prior to forming a liquid crystal between plates of a passive matrix LCD and prior to coating a partially formed OLED active plate with light emitting organic material layers.