Sharp Releases Notebook PC with Optical Sensor LCD Pad

Sharp Corporation will release into the Japanese market a new notebook PC employing an optical sensor LCD for the touchpad. Its new touch-sensing recognition method allows handwritten input and intuitive direct-touch operation.

The 4-inch optical sensor LCD pad in this notebook PC is more than just a conventional track pad thanks to its new touch-sensing recognition method: in addition to conventional mouse operation, it allows pen-based input of drawings and text, as well as multiple-finger-touch operation (gestures) to enlarge, shrink, or rotate items on the screen.

For example, users can sign their name to an on-screen photo before e-mailing it, or they can use two fingers to zoom in and out of Internet Web sites to make them just the right size for viewing. Unlike regular touch panels, Sharp’s optical sensor LCD pad requires no touch sensor or protective film, so illustrations and photos are crystal clear. And the large effective operation area allows for more freedom of movement.

In the future, Sharp will expand the possibilities for its notebook PCs by developing software that makes the most of the optical sensor LCD pad.

Major features include:

1. World’s first optical sensor LCD pad allows both pen-based input and multiple-finger-touch operation.

2. Screen background and menu icons of the optical sensor LCD pad, the back of the cabinet, and other elements can be customized.

3. Comes with proprietary software for enjoying e-books and games with pen- and finger-touch operation.

Source: Sharp