Overview
IEC 62908-1-2:2017 is an international standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that establishes a comprehensive set of terminology and letter symbols for touch and interactive displays. This standard supports consistent communication across the industry by defining technical terms for a wide range of input methods, including touch, hovering, proximity, gesture, eye tracking, and motion recognition. The scope encompasses all types of touch displays, interactive displays, and their essential components, serving as a foundational reference for manufacturers, developers, and users in the electronic display domain.
Key Topics
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Standardized Terminology and Symbols
Establishes precise definitions for terms frequently encountered in touch and interactive display technology literature, ensuring shared understanding across global industries.
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Classification of Displays and Components
Categorizes touch and interactive displays, including classifications for display types, component parts (such as sensors, controllers, and actuators), and construction methods.
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Input Methods
Covers terminology for several input operations, such as:
- Physical touch (capacitive, resistive, optical, and surface acoustic wave sensors)
- Hovering and pressure sensing
- Proximity detection
- Gesture-based interactions
- Eye and head tracking
- Motion recognition and tracking
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Measurement Criteria
Defines performance parameters and measurement methods for both touch and interactive displays, including terms related to accuracy, latency, resolution, feedback, and report rates.
Applications
IEC 62908-1-2:2017 provides practical value in several industry applications:
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Product Development and Manufacturing
Ensures manufacturers of touchscreens and interactive panels use standardized terminology in product documentation, user manuals, and marketing materials, reducing translation errors and ambiguities.
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Testing and Certification
Offers a common reference for engineers and testing laboratories evaluating the performance characteristics of touch and interactive displays. Clearly defined terms improve the reliability of testing procedures, reporting, and conformity assessment.
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System Integration
Facilitates seamless communication and integration between display modules and supporting hardware, especially in complex environments such as interactive kiosks, digital signage, automotive dashboards, and industrial control systems.
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International Collaboration
Streamlines cross-border projects and supply chains by aligning with globally recognized definitions, supporting vendors, researchers, and clients in multi-national settings.
Related Standards
The IEC 62908 series addresses touch and interactive display technology in detail. Relevant standards and resources include:
- IEC 62908-1-1: General requirements for touch and interactive displays
- Other Parts of IEC 62908: Cover performance evaluation, optical and electrical testing, safety guidelines, and environmental considerations.
- IEC Electropedia: The authoritative online dictionary for electrotechnical terminology (www.electropedia.org)
- ISO/IEC Directives: For harmonized terminology usage and standardization procedures across IEC and ISO standards
By adopting IEC 62908-1-2:2017, organizations strengthen their documentation integrity, facilitate interoperability, and support consistent dialogue within the touch and interactive display sector. This standard is an essential reference for all stakeholders involved in the design, production, and application of modern user interfaces.
Open preview (PDF)Touch and interactive displays - Part 1-2: Generic - Terminology and letter symbols
