Samsung today said that it will invest 1.76 trillion South Korean Won (approximately $1.72 billion) to complete the second phase of its 7G LCD panel fab. While the first stage of its "7-1" line has a capacity to process 60,000 glass substrates a month, 7-2 will add 45,000 in the first half of 2006 and another 45,000 in the second half of next year. Total output will reach 150,000 substrates with a size of 1,870 x 2,200 mm (73.6 x 86.6 inches) each.

The production boost will be enough to propel the company to the top of 40 and 46" LCD TV market, Samsung believes. According to the company the cost for is 7G LCD fab totaled $7.07 billion. (THG)