SAMSUNG AND SONY said they will build a further eighth generation TFT-LCD production line as part of their joint venture called S-LCD.

S-LCD already has an eighth generation glass line but says more capacity is necessary to meet increased demand for LCD TVs.

The production line will cost nearly $2 billion, with production slated for the second quarter of next year.

The line, called 8-2, and based in Tangjeong, South Korea, will initially churn out 60,000 glass TFT LCD sheets a month, with dimensions of 2,200mm x 2,500mm.

S-LCD currently has one seventh generation line, banging out 100,000 sheets a month at sizes of 1,870mm x 2,200mm. Its eighth generation line produces 50,000 sheets a month at sizes of 2,200mm x 2,500mm.

This is a heck of a lot of glass. Let's hope there's something worth watching on TV. µ