Abstract: A passive matrix, electro-luminescent display system has a passive matrix, electro-luminescent display having an orthogonally oriented array of column and row electrodes and an electro-luminescent layer located between the electrodes at the intersection of each column and row electrode forming an individual light-emitting element. Drivers provide separate signals at different times to different groups of row electrodes within the array of row electrodes; wherein the row electrodes of each group simultaneously receive at least two different level signals. A display driver receives and processes the input image signal to provide a presharpened image control signal. Column drivers respond to the presharpened image control signal for simultaneously providing a signal to the multiple column electrodes within the array of column electrodes at the same time signals are provided to the groups of row electrodes so that the concurrence of row and column signals causes individual light-emitting element to produce light.