We don’t have actual MTBF calculations for our display modules. However, the gating item will always be the LCD panel backlight. For example, the panel used in the 4.3″ modules has an LED lifetime minimum rating of 20,000 hours (typical 30,000 hours). LED lifetime is defined as operating hours at full brightness until the module brightness decreases to 50% of the original intensity when operated at an ambient temperature of 25ºC. This is not as bad as it might seem. Our eyes have a logarithmic response to brightness, so half-bright to a luminosity meter is not perceived as half-bright. Note: The LED lifetime can be increased by reducing the display brightness or turning the backlight off during periods of inactivity. For example, to double the LED lifetime rating, reduce the backlight brightness to 50%.

Check out screen protector vendors below. The size you need will depend on your bezel design and visible display area. Photodon Find Universal Stock sizes. Photodon can also trim down films to your dimensions for a custom fit. See a description of all film types: clear, anti-glare, and specialty. NuShield For the SLCD43 module, check out Part Number NU300E, Select DayVue film. Read more about DayVue's anti-reflective film for electronic displays. ARMR-200 This product by 3M is another option. It is an anti-reflective, matte, 5mil protector. Digi-Key sells sheets of it, and then you need to employ a die-cut company to slice it to the correct size. In a typical application, cut it to the visible screen size so you can replace it easily. If you are trying to seal the screen, cut it to the size of the display and mount it behind a gasket.

A resistive touch screen consists of several layers, and a capacitive touch screen consists of an insulator coated with a transparent conductor. Compare resistive vs. capacitive touch.

Some people believe you need a  projected capacitive touch screen for latex gloves. However, resistive touchscreens work under pressure, so gloves, stylus, or anything that pushes the touch screen will work.

You can ruggedize our resistive touch somewhat by putting a ZAGG film on it.

Reach Technology does not support any OLED (organic light emitting diode) displays.  

If you want the lowest cost, you buy the displays yourself. However, we cannot provide technical support for displays that we don’t sell. Suppose you’re not already aware of the vagaries of the LCD business and especially of the availability of LCD products. In that case, you might want to read how the LCD business is very different from others.