Table of contents
Unisystem Pro is a line of LCD-TFT modules designed for outdoor devices operating in direct sunlight and demanding environmental conditions. High brightness, industrial-grade components, UV protection and enhanced mechanical resistance support readability, durability and stable performance throughout long-term outdoor use.
The Unisystem LCD-TFT portfolio is divided into three lines, each tailored to different application requirements:
- Unisystem Lite – modules for devices operating indoors under stable conditions,
- Unisystem Core – the industrial standard for intensive use,
- Unisystem Pro – modules for devices operating outdoors, including demanding environments.
The Lite, Core and Pro lines make it easier to match the display specifications to actual project requirements – avoiding unnecessary overengineering and cost, while providing higher performance where the application demands it.
Want to learn more about the development of Unisystem’s own-product portfolio? Read the interview: New products developed by Unisystem: industrial LCD-TFTs in three variants.
Origins of the Unisystem Pro line – challenges of outdoor applications
With over 30 years of experience in information display technologies, we have gained a deep understanding of both the capabilities and limitations of different display technologies, including LCD, OLED and EPD. For electronic device manufacturers, we have developed solutions tailored to specific applications, methods of operation and environmental conditions.
Outdoor projects come with a specific set of challenges. Devices may be exposed to direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, UV radiation, changing weather conditions, water, contamination, vibration, impacts and intensive use. In such environments, selecting the right LCD-TFT panel is only one part of the design process – the enclosure, sealing, cover glass, coatings, mounting method and heat dissipation must all be considered as well.
One of the main challenges in outdoor applications is direct sunlight. The display must provide sufficient brightness to remain readable in strong ambient light while maintaining stable performance during prolonged exposure to solar radiation. On sunny days, the device surface can reach very high temperatures, which may reduce image quality, accelerate material ageing and, in extreme cases, damage the panel or other components. Mechanical resistance is equally important, especially for devices installed in public spaces and exposed to intensive use as well as accidental or intentional impacts. For this reason, appropriate cover glass thickness and a properly designed front panel are just as important as the display’s optical parameters.
The Unisystem Pro line was developed based on our experience with demanding outdoor projects.
Read more about the challenges of outdoor projects in the interview: “Solution” in Practice – How Unisystem Responds to Real Customer Challenges. Interview with Jacek Marcinkowski.
Unisystem Pro – LCD-TFT modules for outdoor applications
The Unisystem Pro line includes more than a dozen module variants, differing in diagonal size, resolution, interface, touch panel configuration and cover glass design. This broad range makes it easier to match the display to the device’s electronics architecture, mechanical design, user interface and operating conditions.
The key features of each module are encoded in its product designation – the part number (PN). We explain the part-number structure used across the Unisystem Lite, Core and Pro lines in our guide: How to Read Unisystem Part Numbers: A Guide to the Lite, Core, and Pro Lines.
Below, we take a closer look at the key features of the Unisystem Pro line.
Industrial-grade components
Unisystem Pro modules use industrial-grade components selected for long-term operation in changing and demanding outdoor conditions. This includes the LCD-TFT panel, backlight system, control ICs, and components responsible for power supply and signal transmission.
In outdoor applications, stable performance over time is just as important as the initial display parameters. Components must maintain reliable operation despite temperature fluctuations, intense ambient light, increased heat loads, and frequent or continuous use.
Carefully selected components support consistent image quality, predictable performance, and a long product lifecycle. This is particularly important in applications where display failure may disrupt device operation, limit access to critical information, require service intervention, and generate additional operational costs.
Sizes and resolutions
Unisystem Pro modules are available in four popular sizes and corresponding resolutions:
- 7.0” – 1024 × 600 px (WSVGA),
- 10.1” – 1280 × 800 px (WXGA),
- 12.1” – 1280 × 800 px (WXGA),
- 15.6” – 1920 × 1080 px (Full HD).
The choice of diagonal size and resolution should reflect the actual needs of the application rather than the assumption that higher values are always better. Key factors include the size of interface elements, the amount and type of information displayed, viewing distance, method of operation, and the performance of the image-generating platform. The configurations available in the Unisystem Pro line support both simpler user interfaces and more advanced applications displaying multiple parameters, charts, maps, and messages simultaneously.
Brightness
The nominal brightness of LCD-TFT panels in the Unisystem Pro line is 2000 cd/m², providing high image readability even under intense ambient light and direct sunlight.
High brightness is particularly important in outdoor applications, where lighting conditions can change significantly throughout the day. A display that remains clearly readable under cloudy skies may become much harder to read in direct midday sun. A sufficiently powerful backlight helps maintain contrast between the displayed content and the light reflected from the front surface.
Brightness, however, is only one factor affecting readability. The panel type, bonding technology, cover glass properties, front panel design, and the position of the device relative to the light source also play an important role. In outdoor projects, these elements should be considered together.
High brightness also increases power consumption and heat generation. The device therefore needs effective thermal management, as excessive heat can accelerate backlight degradation and affect the performance of the panel and other components.
Variants with a touch panel
Alongside “open” LCD-TFT modules, the Unisystem Pro line also includes variants with a projected capacitive (PCAP) touch panel. This enables direct on-screen interaction and can reduce the need for external buttons, switches, or knobs.
In touch-enabled variants, module brightness is 1700 cd/m². The lower brightness compared with the “open” LCD-TFT panel results from the additional optical layers, including the touch sensor, 4 mm cover glass, and adhesive layers through which the backlight passes. Even so, 1700 cd/m² still provides high readability in intense ambient light, including direct sunlight.
ILITEK controller and touch panel calibration
Touch input in Unisystem Pro modules is handled by the ILITEK ILI2520 controller, which allows the touch panel to be adapted to the device design and actual operating conditions.
Proper configuration and calibration make it possible to adjust panel sensitivity to the cover glass thickness, intended method of operation, level of electromagnetic interference, and the presence of water or contamination on the surface. This is particularly important in outdoor devices exposed to changing weather conditions, increased humidity, and various types of contamination.
Calibration can also enable operation with selected types of gloves, including latex, nitrile, or rubber gloves, which is useful in applications where operators use personal protective equipment.
The settings should always be tuned to the specific application, as excessive sensitivity may lead to unintended touch input, known as ghost touch. The controller should therefore be configured to balance touch sensitivity with resistance to false signals.
RGB, MIPI DSI and LVDS interfaces
Depending on the variant, Unisystem Pro modules can use an RGB, MIPI DSI, or LVDS interface. This makes it possible to select the interface according to the electronics architecture, connection design, bandwidth requirements, and expected level of interference.
RGB is a parallel interface that enables direct integration of the display with the control electronics. Because it requires a large number of signal lines, careful PCB routing is essential, making it best suited to short connections between the display and the control unit.
MIPI DSI is a high-speed serial interface that uses relatively few signal lines while providing high bandwidth. It is particularly well suited to compact designs where the display is located close to the processor.
LVDS uses differential transmission to maintain signal integrity and reduce susceptibility to electromagnetic interference. It is therefore well suited to higher-resolution modules and applications requiring longer connections between the display and the control electronics.
USB-C and HDMI interfaces – further development of Unisystem’s own products
As part of the continued development of our own-product portfolio, we plan to introduce LCD-TFT variants with an additional PCB supporting both USB-C and HDMI. Both interfaces can be used for video transmission, making integration with industrial computers, single-board computers, and other video sources more straightforward.
The solution is designed as plug & play – the module can be connected to a compatible video source without the need to directly support the panel’s native interface. This simplifies display integration and reduces the amount of work required on the control electronics side.
USB-C provides a compact, widely used connection for data transmission and, depending on the implementation, can also support video, power delivery, and touch panel signals. The available functionality depends on the selected standard, controller, and overall module design.
HDMI is a widely adopted digital interface for video and audio transmission. It simplifies connection to devices equipped with a standard video output and reduces the need to design a direct interface to the LCD-TFT panel.
Adding USB-C and HDMI support will broaden the integration options for Unisystem’s own products, particularly in projects where fast deployment, standardised connections, and easier control-unit replacement are important.
RGB vs. MIPI vs. LVDS vs. USB-C vs. HDMI
The table below presents the key characteristics of RGB, MIPI DSI, LVDS, USB-C and HDMI from the perspective of integrating an LCD-TFT with the device electronics. The comparison is indicative – actual transmission capabilities depend, among other things, on the display resolution and refresh rate, PCB design, connection length and quality, control unit parameters and the implementation of the interface.
| Feature | RGB | MIPI DSI | LVDS | USB-C | HDMI |
| Type of solution | Direct panel interface | Direct panel interface | Direct panel interface | Connector supporting various transmission standards | Digital video and audio interface |
| Video transmission method | Parallel | Differential | Differential | Depends on the implemented standard | Serial, digital |
| Availability in the Core line | Selected 7.0” variants | Selected 7.0” variants | 7.0”, 10.1”, 12.1” and 15.6” variants | Planned solution | Planned solution |
| Number of connections | 24 data lines – 8 each for R, G and B – plus VSync, HSync and DCLK lines | Usually 4 differential pairs, e.g., 8 signal lines; some configurations may use fewer pairs | Usually 4 differential pairs, e.g., 8 signal lines | One compact connector | One signal connector |
| Typical connection length | Short connections on the PCB or between closely located components | Short connection between the processor and the display | Suitable for longer connections as well | Depends on the standard and cable used | Suitable for connections using an external cable |
| Immunity to interference | Low: parallel, single-ended lines are susceptible to interference, crosstalk and increased electromagnetic emissions | High bandwidth, suited to compact modules carrying larger amounts of data | High bandwidth, suitable for higher-resolution modules | Depends on implementation and cable quality | Low susceptibility when an appropriate cable is used |
| Bandwidth and resolution | Suitable mainly for lower and medium resolutions | High bandwidth with a small number of lines | High bandwidth, suitable for higher resolutions | Depends on the video transmission standard used | Depends on the HDMI version and module electronics |
| Control unit requirements | LCD controller supporting RGB | MIPI DSI controller | LVDS transmitter or suitable converter | Support for a compatible USB-C transmission mode | HDMI output |
| Power delivery capability | No | No | No | Yes – depending on the implementation | No |
| Touch transmission through the same connector | No | No | No | Yes – depending on the module design | No |
| Impact on PCB design | Requires routing many parallel lines and maintaining timing relationships | Requires correct routing of high-speed differential pairs | Requires controlled routing and matching of differential pairs | Can reduce the number of connectors, but requires additional control ICs | Simplifies connection to a computer, but increases the amount of electronics in the module |
| Typical use | Designs with the display located close to the control unit | Compact devices with a direct display-to-processor connection | Designs requiring stable transmission, higher resolution or a longer connection | Devices requiring simplified cabling and integration of multiple functions in one connector | Devices operating with computers and units equipped with a standard video output |
RGB, MIPI DSI and LVDS are interfaces used for direct control of an LCD-TFT panel. USB-C and HDMI represent a different integration model – they require additional electronics on the module side, but can simplify connection to a ready-made computing platform.
The final interface choice should take into account the capabilities of the control unit, display resolution, connection length and design, available space for electronics, as well as bandwidth requirements, transmission immunity to interference and the way the module will be integrated into the device.
Cover glass
In Unisystem Pro modules with a touch panel, cover glass is a standard part of the design. It protects both the display and the touch panel against scratches, pressure, impacts, and other mechanical damage.
The Pro line uses 4 mm cover glass as standard, providing IK08 mechanical resistance. This provides increased protection against impact, which is particularly important for devices installed in public spaces or exposed to intensive use and potential vandalism.
The increased glass thickness also improves front-panel rigidity and helps reduce the risk of point pressure being transferred directly to the touch panel or LCD-TFT panel.
IK resistance applies to the complete, properly designed assembly and depends on factors such as the module mounting method, glass support, enclosure, and front sealing. The use of appropriate cover glass alone does not guarantee the required level of mechanical protection.
Two cover glass variants are available in Unisystem products:
- cover glass without mounting tape,
- cover glass with mounting tape and rounded corners.
Cover glass without mounting tape
In this variant, the cover glass is supplied without factory-applied mounting tape, giving greater flexibility in designing a custom mounting method for the enclosure or front panel. Its rectangular shape also makes it easier to adapt the glass to the device’s mechanical design.
Cover glass with mounting tape
In this variant, the cover glass comes with factory-applied mounting tape, making it easier to position and secure the module in the enclosure or front panel. This can simplify assembly and improve repeatability in serial production. The rounded corners also give the front of the device a more refined finish.
Optical bonding as standard
All LCD-TFTs from the Unisystem Lite, Unisystem Core and Unisystem Pro lines equipped with a touch panel use optical bonding as standard. The process bonds the LCD-TFT, touch panel and cover glass across their entire surface using a transparent optical material.
Eliminating the air gap between the layers reduces internal reflections, improves image contrast and increases the mechanical rigidity of the complete module. This is particularly important in outdoor applications, where the display must remain readable in strong light while also withstanding intensive use, shocks, vibration and localised mechanical loads.
Filling the space between the layers also reduces the risk of contamination, including moisture, accumulating inside the module. However, optical bonding alone does not provide a specific IP protection rating – this depends on the design of the complete device, including the mounting method, sealing and enclosure.
Anti-UV layer
Unisystem Pro modules are equipped with an anti-UV layer that protects components from degradation caused by prolonged exposure to solar radiation. This is particularly important in outdoor applications, where the screen may be exposed to sunlight for many hours each day.
UV radiation can accelerate the ageing of optical materials, adhesives, polarisers and other layers within the module. Over time, this may lead to colour changes, reduced light transmission, lower contrast and a shorter service life.
The anti-UV layer helps limit these effects and supports stable optical performance over long-term operation. It therefore complements high brightness – while the backlight supports readability, UV protection helps maintain the durability of the module during prolonged outdoor use.
IR layer
Selected Unisystem Pro models are available with additional modifications designed for demanding outdoor applications. One of these is an IR layer – a thermal coating that reduces heat build-up caused by infrared radiation. This is particularly important in devices exposed to direct sunlight, high temperatures and changing environmental conditions. By limiting the amount of thermal energy reaching the module, the IR layer helps reduce excessive panel heating and supports stable operating conditions.
Information about this modification is included in the product part number. The last two digits identify the module version – 00 indicates the standard version, while a different designation refers to structural, technological or functional changes. For example, in the UST101HWLNCU10 model, the final 10 identifies a variant equipped with an additional IR layer.
MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures)
MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures) is a statistical indicator that describes the average expected operating time between failures within a given population of devices. It does not define the guaranteed lifetime of an individual module, but it provides a useful reference for comparing the expected reliability of solutions designed for similar operating conditions.
For Unisystem Pro modules, the declared MTBF is up to 100,000 hours, reflecting the line’s focus on long-term operation, including continuous-use applications.
Actual module lifetime also depends on factors such as operating conditions, temperature, power supply, backlight intensity, exposure to solar radiation, and the thermal design of the complete device. In outdoor applications, effective heat dissipation and limiting excessive heat build-up inside the enclosure are particularly important.
What applications are Unisystem Pro modules designed for?
Unisystem Pro is designed primarily for devices operating outdoors, including applications exposed to direct sunlight, changing weather conditions and an increased risk of mechanical damage. Typical applications include:
- HMI, operator, control and monitoring panels for installations, devices and infrastructure,
- vending machines,
- self-service terminals for payments, registration, request handling and service access,
- information kiosks and totems,
- passenger information systems at bus stops, railway stations, platforms and transport hubs,
- car park and petrol station equipment, including entry terminals, parking meters, dispensers and payment points,
- access control systems installed at entrances, gates and infrastructure facilities,
- urban-space solutions such as information points, service devices and interactive street furniture,
- equipment used in ports, airports and outdoor areas of logistics centres,
- panels installed at sports, recreational and tourist facilities.
Using the Pro line does not mean that the module alone provides the complete device with protection against all environmental factors. The final durability and ingress protection of the solution also depend on the enclosure design, sealing, ventilation, front panel mounting, connector protection and heat dissipation.
The right model should therefore be selected based on the actual application requirements and operating conditions, including sunlight exposure, temperature range, precipitation and contamination, intensity of use and the required level of mechanical resistance.
Looking for a solution tailored to your project? Contact us and tell us about your application requirements. Together, we’ll select the right display variant or define the required scope of customisation to ensure readability, durability and reliable outdoor operation.
