A method consistent with certain implementations involves installing a protective film on a display panel by: placing a sheet of protective film adjacent a front surface of a display panel, where the front surface comprises a surface of the display panel that is displayed when in use, and where the display panel has an edge around a periphery of the display panel; drawing protective film into full contact with the front surface of the display panel; sealing the protective film to the front surface of the display panel at a location at or near the edge of the display panel around the periphery thereof to produce a peripheral sealed edge. The protective film can be drawn into full contact with the display panel by using a vacuum. This abstract is not to be considered limiting, since other embodiments may deviate from the features described in this abstract.