Historically, since notebook PC displays lacked mechanical compatibility, notebook PC producers were often forced to use different interface cables, plastic or magnesium enclosures, bezels, bracket assemblies and EMI shields for each panel adopted.  As a result, notebook PC producers underwent significant tooling costs when adopting different panels.  In addition, the associated documentation and logistical issues resulting from these different configurations were staggering.  As a result, the significant tooling costs and the associated impact on delivery schedules eliminated many panel suppliers from being considered as potential second sources.

The original purpose of the SPWG was to establish TFT LCD mechanical and electrical standards in order to:

• Improve display availability so that TFT LCD designs from multiple suppliers can be quickly implemented without significant modification to packaging, interface design and tooling;
• Reduce development cycles and inventory costs;
• Reduce quantity of TFT LCD part numbers;
• Improve utilization of engineering resources at TFT LCD producers;
• Reduce obstacles to design wins for TFT LCD producers.

Through SPWG Standards, v1.0 and v2.0, electrical and mechanical standards were set for 13.3", 14.1" and 15.0" TFT LCDs were agreed to by all major TFT LCD producers.  (To see the endorsing companies and quotes from executives at currently endorsing companies, click the Endorsements link below).  Since the SPWG standards were established, almost 60% of the TFT LCDs used in the notebook PC market have shifted to SPWG compatibility, saving the industry an estimated $100 million annually.

When initially introduced, many feared that the SPWG concept would lead to the "commoditization" of display in the notebook PC industry.  In fact, notebook PC displays are MUCH more differentiated today than a few years ago, with a wide array of pixel formats, viewing angle technologies, brightness and power capabilities, color depth, and other performance characteristics.  This diversification in display performance, all with "standard" mechanical and interface specifications as described by the SPWG, is precisely what the SPWG founders envisioned.

Interestingly, the notebook PC industry continues to diversify, with larger and wider displays entering the market at a fast pace.  These new form factors are newly being addressed by the SPWG.  Additionally, in cooperation with the Extended Battery Life Working Group (EBL-WG), the SPWG is additionally working to improve notebook PC specifications related to display power measurement and control.

In July 2003, industry veterans Mark Fihn and Paul Salisbury (both of whom were actively involved in the initial SPWG efforts), began a process to help rejuvenate the SPWG, adding new form factors and additional mechanical, interface, and measurement specifications.   A broad range of companies are supportive of the SPWG effort and are crucial for the development and review of these new and additional standards.  In September 2004, Larry Mabe joined Mark and Paul in the continuing evolution of the SPWG process.