Following recent trends in the industry, TFT LCD panel maker Chi Mei Opotelectronics (CMO) is focusing on 16:9 aspect ratio and LED backlight products, estimating such applications will reach a penetration rate of around 55% of the company's shipments by 2010, outpacing the global average.

CMO is being active regarding its lineup for 16:9 LCD monitors with sizes including 15.6-, 18.5-, 21.6- and 23.6-inch.

15.6-inch panels entered mass production in the first quarter this year at CMO's 5G line which can cut 18 units per substrate, while 18.5-inch panels are scheduled to start production in June at the company's 5.5G line enabling 18 units per substrate, according to industry sources.

In the third quarter, mass production of 21.6-inch panels is expected to start at 5G facilities yielding eight units per substrate, and 23.6-inch at a 6G line producing 18 units, the sources added.