Small Liquid Crystal Light Valve - Controllable Shutter Glass

What do you get when you power a layer of liquid crystal material sandwiched between two sheets of glass? A Liquid Crystal Light Valve (also known as LCD Controllable Black-out Panel)! Commonly used for electric welding helmets to protect eyes from bright sparks, or as a "reveal" effect for various projects by controlling the opacity of the LCD.

This device uses liquid crystals to regulate the illumination passing through it, similar to the technology in LCD monitors and TVs but for a single panel. The LCD normally appears tinted gray due to unpolarized ambient light. You can apply a voltage across two electrodes to change its opacity.

• Voltage range: 3-5V (starting to darken around 1.0V, fully opaque around 4.0V, max 5V recommended)
• Opaque effect blocks about 95% of light, not 100%
• Minimal current usage, voltage holds the opacity level even when power is removed
• For prolonged opacity, use an AC square wave to avoid damage

Please note this is a delicate thin glass, cannot be bent or cut—handle with care.

Technical Details:

• LCD size: 31 x 33 x 2 mm
• Overall dimensions: 36 x 36 mm
• Driving voltage: 3-5V
• LCD type: TN, transmissive, positive
• Operating temperature: -10° to 60° Celsius

Product Dimensions: 36.0 mm x 36.0 mm x 1.8 mm

Product Weight: 5.2 g

Datasheet