Sterling to receive TFT arrays from OIS

Sterling Diagnostic Imaging has announced that a supply of thin-film transistor (TFT) arrays for its iiRad with DirectRay digital x-ray systems has been assured into the second quarter of 1999. The Greenville, SC-based company reached a settlement with OIS (Optical Imaging Systems) that will enable Sterling to gain access to all the TFT arrays at OIS, which recently announced it had shut its doors when its primary investor withdrew funding (SCAN 10/14/98). Sterling will also receive work-in-progress arrays from OIS, according to Sterling.

Meanwhile, the company is having encouraging discussions with several alternative TFT suppliers that could result in resumed production of TFT panels for Sterling by mid-1999, said Ernest Waaser, COO. This would result in minimal impact on supply of iiRad with DirectRay systems, he said.