Segmenttinäytön

Segmenttinäytön, often translated as segmented display, is a type of electronic display that shows information by dividing the screen into distinct segments. These segments can be illuminated individually or in groups to form numbers, letters, or simple symbols. This technology was widely used in early digital devices and remains prevalent in certain applications due to its simplicity, low power consumption, and cost-effectiveness.

The most common form of segmented display is the seven-segment display, which consists of seven individual light-emitting elements arranged in a figure-eight pattern. By turning on specific combinations of these segments, all ten digits (0-9) can be formed. Variations exist, such as fourteen-segment displays capable of displaying alphanumeric characters, and sixteen-segment displays offering even greater flexibility.

Segmented displays can be constructed using various technologies, including Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs), Liquid Crystal Displays (LCDs), and older technologies like Vacuum Fluorescent Displays (VFDs). LED segmented displays are known for their brightness and wide viewing angles, making them suitable for outdoor applications. LCD segmented displays are favored for their extremely low power consumption, making them ideal for battery-powered devices.

Despite the advent of more sophisticated display technologies like LCD and OLED screens, segmented displays continue to be used in numerous products. Examples include digital clocks, calculators, microwave ovens, industrial control panels, multimeters, and simple status indicators where only basic information needs to be conveyed. Their durability, ease of use, and affordability ensure their continued relevance.