Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. (Tangejong, Korea) reports that it’s successfully concluded the pilot test for its newest LCD production line, 7-2. The company began installing equipment at its Gen 7 fabrication plant in early August, and continued the testing and assembly process for approximately three months. Samsung has adhered to the 1,870 x 2,200-mm substrate for lines 7-1 and 7-2 in an effort to normalize 40- and 46-in. TV-panel sizes within the industry. According to the company, eight, 40-in. or six, 46-in. panels may be produced with high glass efficiency. First-phase production will begin in April 2006, and second-phase manufacturing will commence in the second half of next year. Once fully operational,the Gen 7 fab will produce 90,000 substrates per month.

Contact: www.samsung.com.