Abstract: EL devices each having an emissive layer (6) between an anode (3) and a cathode (4) are employed in a passive matrix display apparatus. To drive each device, the anodes and cathodes are arranged in a matrix configuration, and scan signals are supplied to the cathodes (4) from a row driver (8) and pulse width modulation signals having pulse widths proportional to gray scales are supplied to the anodes (3) from a column driver (9) as column driving signals COL1, COL2, COL3, . . . , COLm. The output start timing of the column driving signals COL1, COL2, COL3, . . . , COLm is set to be different for every column. This prevents the output timing of the column driving signal from coinciding at neighboring columns, eases the concentration of supply current, and reduces power consumption.