PVA, or Patterned Vertical Alignment, is a type of image processing technology for LCD monitors. It is the newer form of the MVA (Multi-domain Vertical) technology, and the principle of image formation is almost the same. Compared with the older MVA, PVA screens provide slightly wider viewing angles and greater contrast. This is mainly due to a more precise reproduction of black colour. In terms of quality and price, PVA falls somewhere between premium IPS and the older TN technology.
Like the other LCD imaging technologies, PVA is named after the behaviour of liquid crystals inside subpixels. With PVA, these are usually divided into four domains. When idle, they resemble the configuration of a tree (hence the name Patterned Vertical Alignment). An electric current then enables their opening, after which they are able to transmit light.
In other words, subpixels do not let any light through when idle. This represents a significant difference compared with the older TN technology. If a subpixel or entire pixel is damaged, it remains black.
PVA compared with MVA:
Monitors labelled S-PVA represent an advanced version of the above-mentioned PVA display technology. Compared with standard PVA, the main difference is the structure of the pixels. They are divided into two separate zones, where each zone has four domains. Each pixel is thus composed of eight domains. As a result, S-PVA monitors offer slightly better image reproduction than PVA monitors.
S-PVA compared with PVA: