The Standard Panels Working Group (SPWG) was formed in May of 1999 by procurement and engineering executives at Compaq, Dell Computer, Hewlett-Packard, IBM, and Toshiba for the purpose of establishing mechanical and interface specifications for the displays used in notebook PCs.  Encompassing specifications for 13.3", 14.1" and 15.0" displays, the SPWG-defined panels currently comprise close to 60% of all displays used in notebook PCs.  The widespread adoption of SPWG-compliant panels in the notebook PC industry has served to simplify design-in cycle times, to reduce component and manufacturing costs, and to better assure a steady source of supply in a volatile market.  Conservative estimates suggest that the SPWG currently "saves" the notebook PC industry more than $100 million annually -- costs that otherwise served little purpose in improving the end-user experience.

With the advent of new display form factors (15.4" and 17.0" panels in a wide aspect ratio, for example), along with additional functionality (integrated inverters and power management, for example), there is a sustained need for additional industry-wide consensus about electro-mechanical specifications for displays.  Additionally, current front-of-screen performance parameters are without standardized measurement processes.  Accordingly, this website has been established to help underscore the activities of the SPWG's ongoing efforts, as well as to serve as a resource point for the existing standards.  Participants acknowledge the long-standing support of DisplaySearch in the establishment and maintenance of the SPWG standard.