Material characteristics of an active matrix LCD based upon chiral smectics

We describe the material properties of a fast switching active matrix ferroelectric liquid crystal mode. The mode relies on a monostable monodomain having a high transmission and full grey scale capability. Experimental data are compared with the results of switching model calculations and the switching mechanism is discussed. The mode is suitable for video and multimedia application and compatible with conventional amorphous silicon thin film transistors due to the small value of the spontaneous polarization.