1. What Is A Semi-Custom CIG VFD

The Semi-Custom CIG VFDs produce a high quality and good performance information display through pattern combinations of colorful custom icons, segments and fine pitch full dot-matrix as shown in the adjacent photograph.

The display at the top is the standard 128x32 dot matrix design with 3 semi-custom designs below.

Please refer to the CIG VFD Application Note for interface details. Base model specifications are available on the web site on the page refering to Graphic CIG VFD Glass.

The anode bases on the glass substrate and grid mesh are all standardized and the only custom parts are the masks for the phosphor, carbon and the insulator layers.

The revised insulator layer will provide through holes to just  the required segments, and not the unused anodes. The custom icons are controlled by a drive technique known as 'overlapped grid scan'.

2. Features of Semi-Custom CIG VFDs

2.1 Development Cost Saving
In comparison to the conventional full-custom VFDs, the development cost (Initial tooling cost) of the Semi-Custom CIG VFDs is from about 75% to 50% LESS than the conventional full-custom CIG VFDs depending on the display pattern design.

2.2 Shorter Lead Time for Prototypes and Mass-Productions
The Semi-Custom CIG VFDs is from about 50% of the conventional full-custom CIG VFD lead time. The lead time for the first mass-production lot after prototypes is also shorter because of the standardized tools and equipment.

Lead Time for First Prototypes
Conventional Full-Custom VFDs = 7 to 8 weeks
Semi-Custom CIG VFDs = About 4 weeks to 6 weeks depending on the display pattern design.

2.3 Free Pattern Design
Easy and free pattern designing is allowed. The combination of full dot-matrix and your fully customized icons and segments are available in a selection of colours.

An Example of a Display Pattern Design in Semi Custom CIG VFD

2.4 De-bug Samples
The base model graphic CIG VFD works as a de-bug sample and is normally in stock allowing you to commence your software design and testing before your prototypes are produced.