Westinghouse Digital To Build One Of The Largest Out-Of-Home Digital Media Networks In The US

Source: Westinghouse

Westinghouse Digital Electronics, the fourth best-selling manufacturer of LCD TVs in the U.S., according to The NPD Group’s retail tracking service*, announced an exclusive arrangement with AdtekMedia, Inc. to significantly accelerate the national expansion of “PumpTop TV,” AdtekMedia’s premier digital media network. PumpTop TV can be seen with Westinghouse Digital’s full line of Pro AV LCD HDTVs at Booth #2641 at InfoComm 2007, June 19-21 at the Anaheim Convention Center.

Westinghouse Digital will build and install turnkey display systems for fuel pumps serviced by AdtekMedia’s narrowcast network, which will deliver news content and advertising to gas station consumers as they fuel their vehicles. The Westinghouse commitment involves supplying complete systems to be installed onto thousands of gas station pumps in each of sixty of the largest U.S. markets, thus creating one of the largest Out-of-Home Digital Media networks in the U.S., reaching more than 100 million drivers each month.

PumpTop TV brings the power of television to the gas pump and captures the attention of consumers in an engaging five-minute program of news, sports, entertainment, weather and traffic interspersed with advertising. Using both audio and video, advertisers reach a captive audience of adults during a natural dwell time out of the home, where nearly 75% of purchase decisions are made.

Out-of-Home Digital Media networks are rapidly emerging as key marketing and communications channels, and advertisers are now incorporating such networks into their marketing plans and media buys. Cinemas, grocery stores, shopping malls, retail stores and other “captive environment” venues are already delivering advertising and programming to consumers via networked digital displays. With nearly 170,000 locations in the U.S., gas stations represent one of the best Out-of-Home Digital Media venue opportunities.

Westinghouse Digital’s technology expertise in displays allows development of next generation, fully integrated systems for gas station narrowcasting. The system includes dual 19” widescreen high-resolution displays (on both sides of the pump), computer, and networking components with wireless delivery along with a server backbone. Westinghouse Digital will incorporate advanced technologies for increased brightness and daylight viewing along with environmental protection and climate control for sensitive system components. Westinghouse Digital’s goal is to improve the consumer experience with the display and provide unique features that directly meet the needs of this growing vertical market consistent with its commitment to build its presence in the commercial market for flat panel displays.

“With our strong manufacturing capability and leading-edge technology, Westinghouse Digital is well positioned to significantly impact the digital signage industry. Working with AdtekMedia allows us to build one of the world’s largest outdoor digital media networks and to deliver a valued information and entertainment experience to a captive audience of adults,” states Richard Houng, CEO of Westinghouse Digital Electronics. “Westinghouse Digital is very bullish on out-of-home digital media. We see significant value in creating digital media networks in consumer-occupied venues, closer to where purchase decisions are made. Over the next few years we plan to place as much LCD technology out of the home as in the home.”

“Access to Westinghouse Digital’s technology and scale not only allows us to rapidly build a national digital media network in gas stations, but gives us a technology platform to create and enable clients to build other vertical digital media networks out of the home,” according to Dick Paulsen, President of AdtekMedia. “With PumpTop TV, gas station sales are increased, consumers are entertained, and advertisers are thrilled with this medium’s measurability and effectiveness. It is really a win-win-win situation.”

PumpTop TV is currently evaluating national and regional content providers for its network. The near term roll out plan for PumpTop TV calls for expedited completion of the current build-out of the Los Angeles market, quickly followed by full entry into other key U.S. demographic markets including San Francisco-Oakland-San Jose, Sacramento-Stockton-Modesto, San Diego, Phoenix, Dallas-Fort Worth and Houston.

Westinghouse Digital Launches New High-End LCD HDTVs for the Professional Market

Source: Westinghouse

Westinghouse Digital Electronics, the fourth best-selling manufacturer of LCD TVs in the U.S., according to The NPD Group’s retail tracking service*, expands its suite of high-end LCD HDTVs designed specifically for Professional and commercial markets. Westinghouse’s full line of pro market displays is on exhibit at Booth #2641 at InfoComm 2007, June 19-21 at the Anaheim Convention Center.

The new pro LCD HDTV lineup from Westinghouse Digital includes displays in the following sizes: 26”, 32”, 42”, 47” and 52” units. All LCD HDTVs include an RS-232C connection that provides the controllability necessary for complex installations and multiple panel configurations, making them ideal for use in a video wall. The RS-232C communication features read-in command control codes and send acknowledgement and allows for longer distance communication. All commercial LCD HDTVs include a base of commercial software that is part of the management of the TV that can be customized by the project or application.

“Westinghouse Digital has a proven track record of technology and customer success and satisfaction in the consumer LCD HDTV industry and we are leveraging our unique business model and supply chain to move into the pro AV and commercial marketplace,” states Rey Roque, Vice President of Marketing at Westinghouse Digital Electronics. “Westinghouse Digital Provides the commercial sector the same commitment to excellence as with our consumer displays and has tailored and designed our technology and LCD HDTVs to meet the unique needs of this growing market.” Westinghouse Digital’s new family of commercial displays feature the best of its proprietary technology including SpineDesign™ construction to eliminate cable clutter and allow easy access to video source connections; DayBright™ panel technology for stunning daytime or nighttime viewing; and Autosource™ technology, intelligent engineering that automatically turns the TV on and adjusts it when an external source that is detected.

The commercial LCD HDTVs also come equipped with an installation menu that offers a remote password to access the installation menu, front panel, channel and OSD remote lockouts, start volume, start channel, volume maximize/minimize and Forced Power On features.

Westinghouse Digital’s commercial line of LCD HDTVs geared toward the hospitality industry includes a kit specifically equipped for this market. The Westinghouse Hospitality Kit is compatible with multiple VOD Providers and includes: A set top box, HDMI cable, RS-232 cable and an IR receiver.

The 26” and 32” pro models offer a sharp 1366 x 768 resolution, 400-nits brightness and a 8ms response time. The 26” pro unit has an 800:1 contrast ratio and the 32” pro unit offers a 1200:1 contrast ratio.

The new commercial lineup is also designed for digital signage applications, such as use in shopping malls, financial institutions, colleges and universities, movie theaters, car dealerships or any public facility where information or presentations are constantly running. The new 47” and 52” pro models feature stunning 1080p resolution out of all HD connectors, Providing true 1920 x 1080 resolution, a high 5000:1 dynamic contrast ratio and bright 500-nits display. The new 42” has a 1366 x 768 resolution.

Westinghouse Digital is also unveiling its new TX Series of high-end LCD HDTVs for the custom installation and CEDIA markets for applications that require TV tuners built into the displays. The TX series includes the 42” TX-42F430S, the 47” TX-47F430S and the 52” TX-52F480S.

The TX Series features 1920 x 1080 progressive scan (1080p) resolution, the highest standard available to consumers for HD digital video display; an integrated ATSC/NTSC/ClearQAM Tuner; fast response times; and a full suite of connectors, including: four HDMI, two Component, Composite, S-Video and 1 VGA.

The TX TVs deliver razor-sharp images with their Full Color Spectrum and High Contrast Picture — which creates deeper blacks and richer dark scene details by dynamically matching the brightness of the TV backlight to that of the on-screen image. The Advanced Calibration Menu allows the users to make advanced adjustments to calibration settings including colorimertry and the Preset Video Modes give users the ability to select from a menu of customized viewing styles including movies, games and sports.

The TX Series is currently available and the additional Westinghouse Digital commercial line of LCD HDTVs will be available in Q3, 2007.

ViewSonic Introduces HDTV That Are Stylish And Feature Rich

Source: ViewSonic

At InfoComm07, ViewSonic® Corp. added a glossy piano black finish to it latest LCD TV line. The 35 Series LCD TVs combine an elegant design and premium high-definition (HD) entertainment features without draining the summer vacation budget.  The LCD TVs are priced starting below $600 and deliver brilliant images and multiple input connections to ensure compatibility with the latest TV and video entertainment equipment, from DVD devices and media center players to advanced gaming consoles and PCs. 

Integrated with ATSC/NTSC tuners, the 35 Series includes the 26-inch N2635w, 32-inch N3235w and 37-inch N3735w. The LCD TVs boast 1366×768 native HD resolutions, vivid 500 nits  brightness (typ), fast 8ms LCD panel response times and precision video processing to leverage ViewSonic’s Advanced ClearPicture™ electronics resulting in exceptionally smooth detailed images when watching high-speed car chases and combating video villains. Equipped with a range of digital and analog input connections, such as HDMI with HDCP compatibility, DVI, S-Video, composite and component video, these LCD TVs are well-suited for using HD set top boxes, surround sound systems and camcorders.

“With ViewSonic’s 20 years of display expertise, our LCD TV portfolio combines superior HD performance, style and unmatched value bringing an enhanced viewing experience to any room,” said Jeff Volpe, vice president of marketing, ViewSonic Americas.  “Consumers are sure to enjoy the quality and impressive performance of these LCD TVs as they enjoy summer-time viewing of HD sports, movies and their favorite summer TV series.”

All three TVs feature a 2D comb filter with motion adaptive de-interlacing for delivering consistent, high-quality digital images, and are also equipped with SPDIF audio outputs to bolster the integrated 20-watt Dolby stereo speakers. The N3235w and N3735w feature 1200:1 contrast ratios (typ), while the N2635w offers an 800:1 contrast ratio (typ) for enjoying HD content in any lighting situation. In addition, the N2635w and N3235w have VGA inputs for PC usage, allowing users to watch downloaded multimedia, such as last week’s episode of “Lost” or videos from YouTube, from the comfort of their couch or bed.

Available now, the N2635w, N3235w and N3735w have estimated street prices of $599, $699 and $899 (respectively) and will be sold through authorized ViewSonic resellers, distributors and mail order outlets.  ViewSonic NextVision® LCD TVs are backed by a one-year limited warranty on parts and labor. Optional two-year or three-year extended warranties are also available.  ViewSonic offers toll-free technical support, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, excluding major U.S. holidays.  For more information and images of ViewSonic LCD TVs, or to locate an authorized ViewSonic dealer, visit www.ViewSonic.com/lcdtv or call 800.888.8583.

BrillantColor™ Technology Proliferates Line of DLP® Projectors With More Colors Than LCD

Source: Texas Instruments

Texas Instruments (TI) announced that recent chip set developments are stimulating continued adoption of BrilliantColor™ technology in front projection products, of which DLP® Products enjoys approximately 50 percent global market share.  BrilliantColor technology will be featured in more than 14 new projectors debuting at InfoComm throughout all price points and resolutions in products optimized for the ProAV channel. DLP Products expects more than 70 products featuring BrilliantColor technology to be on the market this year.  

DLP projectors featuring BrillantColor technology utilize up to 6 separate colors: red, blue, green, cyan, yellow and magenta for a wider variety of accurate, vibrant colors that won’t fade over time.  BrilliantColor technology enables a 50 percent increase in brightness of colors and expands the color palette beyond only three basic colors offered by the competing technologies such as LCD. 

Manufacturers’ adoption rate of BrilliantColor technology has grown steadily since it was first announced at InfoComm 2005, and has entered the mainstream with the recent incorporation of the DDP2230 ASIC chip set. The newer DDP2230 provides improved image processing, color performance and wide resolution options over the existing DDP2000 chip set which was previously the featured processor used in mass market and entry level DLP products.

As the computer industry migrates from 1280×768 to 1280×800 resolutions for laptop screens, DLP drives the category with a third WXGA chip set specially calibrated for the new resolution standard. New WXGA projectors from Sharp and other manufacturers will bring BrilliantColor technology to products for both widescreen and traditional presentation applications.

“Our customers have made tremendous improvements with BrilliantColor technology and as a result, we have seen significant adoption across a wide range of end products,” said Lars Yoder, vice president and business manager, TI’s DLP Front Projection Business Unit. “With more color performance, leadership in wide-screen resolution choices, and unmatched total cost of ownership, DLP is ideally suited to address the needs of our customers and their ProAV, business and education partners.”         

DLP Products have the added advantage that the optics for reproducing the image are encased in a sealed, airtight environment shielded from dust and the elements.  By protecting the optics and avoiding the need for a replaceable filter system, DLP products require less regular maintenance and provide a more attractive total cost of ownership – an important concern for all projector owners.

Several DLP customers will be showing new products using BrilliantColor technology at InfoComm including BenQ, Mitsubishi, NEC, Optoma, Sharp, Toshiba, and more.

DLP® Products Enters New Segment of ProAV Market With Debut of DLP .7 XGA 3 Chip Projector

Source: Texas Instruments

Download DLP 3 Chip Solution Architecture

Texas Instruments (TI) announced the DLP .7 XGA 3 chip, a platform for front projection products in the 5,000-7,500 lumens range.  The new platform was designed to bring 3 chip DLP brightness, color and reliability to the demanding and often budget constrained large venue customers in the Pro AV market.

The .7 XGA 3 chip product, named for its diagonal size, resolution and architecture, will serve the increasing number of large venues that need powerful professional projection.  The 5000-7500 lumen market, which serves these high volume large venue ProAV applications is expected to grow at 27% a year over the next 5 years, according to research firm Pacific Media Associates. The new projector is specially suited for these venues, including conference rooms and auditoriums, houses of worship, university and higher education halls, government and e-cinema customers in the ProAV market.

“Getting the value of a high lumen projector just got easier,” said Nancy Fares, business manager for DLP 3Chip products and DLP Cinema®. “Our manufacturing customers determine final product features and price but we anticipate this 3 chip product could help enable manufacturing customers slash the price point in half for a projector of this quality. A 3 chip DLP system is the only technology that can deliver the color, brightness and reliability with the ease of ownership that the ProAV market demands.”

Reliability and total cost of ownership is a major consideration for ProAV customers, where projectors are often placed in hard to reach locations and serviced by untrained IT professionals.  DLP has been proven to be a leader in reliable projection technology throughout the Cinema, HDTV and Front Projection industries. By reflecting light off the mirrors of DLP chips instead of passing light though a panel, DLP 3 chip products offer an efficient design that offers incredible picture fidelity. DLP projectors offer less required regular maintenance and are easier to own – an important concern for all types of projector owners.

The adoption of the .7 platform allows for a smaller light source, prism and DLP chip and will initially launch in one or two lamp configurations.  The OEM’s new products will come complete with a versatile full set of lenses, shifts of +100/-50% vertical and +/- 20% horizontal and more light for fully saturated colors.  Resolutions will be XGA, WXGA and 720p with more resolution options to come in the future. DLP’s 3 chip architecture is the only system where color and brightness are on the same mode, competing LCD products have separate settings that can compromise lumens to operate for color.

The first DLP global manufacturing customer to release a product leveraging the new .7 XGA 3 chip is Sharp® with their XG-P610X. The projector powered by DLP technology will be available in Q1 2008 through Sharp authorized Professional System Integration Projector Dealerships. Visit Sharp booth # 7009 to see the projector in use.

“The strong partnership between Sharp and DLP has resulted in our ability to take to market the industry’s first projector that specifically answers the needs of the growing majority of customers,” said Joe Gillio, associate director of display product planning, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “It is no surprise DLP technology is again breaking industry barriers with unparalleled picture quality and brightness.”

Stewart Filmscreen Introduces Innovative “Walk-About” Screen

Source: Stewart Filmscreen Corporation

Something’s afoot at Stewart Filmscreen Corporation® (Booth 3609)—the industry leader in precision projection screens in the home cinema and commercial markets. Today, the company introduced an innovative new rear-projection screen that can be installed in the floor. The Walk-About Screen is Stewart’s first screen that can be installed as flooring, allowing people to watch bright, vivid images, while standing, walking, dancing, or mingling.

Of course, the Walk-About Screen will inspire more than just milling about. In fact, it will be the star of the show due its unsurpassed image quality. The screen, made of multi-layered Stewart StarGlas rear-projection screen material, offers bright, vivid, and crystal clear images with unparalleled contrast and white field uniformity. Available in both StarGlas 60 (0.6 gain)—the world’s largest black screen—and StarGlas 100 (1.0 gain), the Walk-About Screen is reinforced with extra layers of glass to withstand the weight of the crowd. The gain is slightly altered depending on how many layers of glass are used, which is dependent on the structural needs of the installer. Each application is custom-engineered depending on the span of the screen, mounting method, intended use, and anticipated weight load.

Museums can offer stunning images of their collections underfoot…dance-clubs can project music videos or ambient images literally on the dance floor…bridges and walkways showing innovative imagery make strolling more interesting—the applications are endless. Projectors can be installed below the Walk-About Screen with lens options from 0.8:1 and longer. Consultants, designers, installers, and architects can order the screen with sacrificial glass or plastic film for added protection. The Walk-About Screen is available in sizes up to 4 by 7 feet and is typically 2.5 inches thick.

Sony Unveils VPL-C Series of LCD Business Projectors

Source: Sony Pro Video

Sony’s VPL-C series of LCD projectors includes six new models each designed to meet specific presentation requirements in mid-sized conference rooms and classrooms. This new projector family includes a range of compact models, continuing the company’s efforts to offer high levels of flexibility and many options.

The new models in the series are the VPL-CW125, VPL-CX155, VPL-CX150, VPL-CX125, VPL-CX120, and VPL-CX100.

The 3000-lumen VPL-CW125 model delivers WXGA resolution, ideal for presentations from a wide-screen source such as a WXGA PC or HD video with a 16:9 aspect ratio. The other models in the series feature native XGA resolution (1024 x 768), with a range of brightness levels from 2700 to 3500 lumens.

“This new series is a perfect example of the flexibility and range of options we try to incorporate into all our projector offerings,” said John Kaloukian, director of Sony’s Professional Display group. “From connectivity and security to advanced networking, users will be able to address any of their presentation needs with the models in this new line.”

Each projector uses 3LCD technology with Sony’s new Advanced Crisp Focus glass lens, which is designed to display sharper and clearer images with minimal aberration on a screen’s entire surface.

The projectors accept a wide variety of input signals, including component and composite video, S-video (Y/C), and computer signals up to SXGA+ (fV: 60 Hz). This flexibility allows them to be connected to a variety of sources and peripherals. The new models also have a monitor output and audio inputs and outputs.

The VPL-C series projectors’ front-panel will display a message to alert users when lamps need to be replaced, and filter cleaning is recommended at the same time as lamp replacement to reduce maintenance time. The lamp is accessible from inside the rear cover, and the filter can be reached from the front of the projector. This means that lamp replacement and filter cleaning can be performed without uninstalling the projector.

The VPL-CW125, VPL-CX155, and VPL-CX125 models add network capabilities for delivering presentations and performing maintenance over an IP network. A number of functions on these three models can be performed remotely via a web browser. A projector’s current status can be verified and simple controls can be performed, such as powering the unit on or off.

Up to five projectors can be connected to a network and the image from a single PC can be projected by each unit, useful in large venues and multi-room applications in which images need to be projected from various locations. By manually registering a PC’s IP address, images can also be projected across the country or even internationally for distance learning or long-distance communications

The network capabilities allow automatic e-mail reports to be sent to remind users of scheduled maintenance, or alert them to errors and projected lamp life.

The new projectors have a built-in ID function. This enables them to be controlled independently using a single Remote Commander™ unit, useful for multi-projector installations in a single room, and during installation and operation.

The remote has buttons for direct input selection, so users do not have to toggle through the entire range of inputs to select the desired one.

The VPL-CX150, VPL-CX120, and VPL-CX100 are supplied with a card-type Remote Commander unit that can be used to adjust such settings as digital zoom and audio volume or to activate Auto Pixel Alignment, picture muting, and picture freeze functions.

Other features of the VPL-C series include vertical and horizontal keystone, correction, and direct power on/off.

For classroom settings, security features such as a control panel key lock, password authentication system, and a built-in security bar or Kensington™ lock help to prevent unauthorized use and theft.

Planned availability and suggested list pricing for the new models are:

• VPL-CX100     July                 $2,120, XGA, 2,700 lumen 
• VPL-CX120    June                 $2,400, XGA, 3,000 lumen
• VPL-CX125    July                 $2,530, XGA, 3,000 lumen, Network Function
• VPL-CX150    June                $2,730, XGA, 3,500 lumen 
• VPL-CX155    July                 $2,930, XGA, 3,500 lumen, Network Function
• VPL-CW125   October          $3,330, WXGA, 3,000 lumen, Network Function

 

Sony Unveils Two LCD Business Projectors For Classrooms and Conference Rooms

Source: Sony Pro Video

Sony is introducing two LCD business projectors, models VPL-EX4 and VPL-ES4, designed for a range of commercial applications.

The new models are best suited for use in classrooms and conference rooms. A short focal-length lens allows large-screen projection from a very short distance, and low fan noise lets audiences concentrate on the speaker during lectures or presentations.

The 2100-lumen VPL-EX4 model has a native XGA resolution of 1024 by 768 and the 2200-lumen VPL-ES4 unit delivers SVGA resolution of 800 by 600. Each model features a 165-watt lamp.

“Since these projectors were designed primarily for education and business, they are very quiet, highly secure, and include a variety of interfaces,” said Jay Chung, Sony Electronics’ marketing manager for LCD projectors. “These features, combined with high brightness and image quality, make the new models ideal for classroom and conference room use. They are entry-level projectors with advanced projector capabilities.”

The VPL-EX4 and VPL-ES4 models are both 3LCD systems, with each projector featuring three high aperture 0.63-inch LCD panels.

“3LCD technology helps to make projected images brighter and more natural,” Chung said. “This type of system provides high light transmission, excellent color reproduction and smooth gradients in dark areas. It can even help to prevent color break-up.”

The short focal length lens on the new models makes it possible to project large images from a short distance. For example, an 80-inch image (viewable area, measured diagonally) can be projected from a distance of approximately 7.5 feet (2.3 meters).

Both models display images in about four seconds after being turned on. They both have a control panel key lock, as well as a password-authentication system and built-in security bar or Kensington™ lock to help prevent unauthorized use or theft.

A supplied card-type Remote Commander™ unit can be used to adjust such settings as digital zoom and audio volume or to activate Auto Pixel Alignment, picture muting, and picture freeze functions. The remote is also effective from several points in a room, since there are IR receivers located on both the front and rear of each projector.

With the addition of Sony’s new Dynamic Detail Enhancer (DDE), crisp and natural video images can be re-produced via 2-3 pull down processing.

The VPL-EX4 and VPL-ES4 models accept a range of standard- and high-definition video input signals, including composite, S-video (Y/C), and analog RGB/component via the HD D-sub 15 pin interfaces In addition, the units can accept computer signals from VGA up to SXGA+ (1400 by 1050).

The models also incorporate monitor output, a digital zoom (up to 4x), seven picture modes, dynamic detail enhancement for video signals, vertical keystone adjustment, multi language OSD, RS-232C control, and ceiling mount options.

Both models are available this month at suggested list prices of $1,030 (VPL-ES4) and $1,230 (VPL-EX4).

Sanyo Demonstrates World’s Brightest Professional-Grade LCD Projectors

Source: Sanyo

SANYO, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of projectors is “In Tune with Networking” this week at INFOCOMM when they announce the high-luminance PLC-XF47 and PLC-XP100L LCD Projectors, which will offer SANYO’s exclusive PJ-NET ORGANIZER Plus C for monitoring projector functions remotely.

Projectors are commonly used for traditional and general activities such as business or educational presentations and seminars. However, applications for projectors continue to diversify, primarily due to the optimization of high luminance, high resolution, and projector miniaturization. SANYO answerers the demand with two new high luminance projectors equipped with redesigned optical engines and networking features.

“Sanyo has always lead the industry in value-priced, high brightness projectors for large venues but the PLC-XF47 takes us to a new level with optional non-compressed HD wireless capabilities,” says Mark Holt, the Vice President and General Manager for SANYO’s Presentation Technologies Division. “The PLC-XP100L breaks ground as the brightest LCD projector in its class with some exciting new maintenance features.”

The PLC-XF47 is the brightest professional-grade LCD projector in the industry with 15,000 lumens and it is completely compatible with throwing extra-large images. The PLC-XP100L has the highest luminance for a portable LCD projector with 6500 lumens.

Each is outfitted with the PJ-NET ORGANIZER Plus C. In conjunction with the PJ-NET MASTER Ver. 2.0 software all projector functions are monitored and controlled remotely. The camera function of the PJ-NET ORGANIZER Plus C captures still images and allows projectionists to confirm whether or not the image is actually being projected, while monitoring the situation from a remote location.

Both projectors use the Durable Inorganic Optical System (DIOS), which includes the projectors LCD panels and polarizing film. This highly durable optical engine increases the overall reliability and performance of these new models.

PLC-XF47
As the industry’s brightest LCD project at 15,000 lumens, the PLC-XF47 is equipped with Four (4) 330-watt lamps. This projector is able to throw extra-large projections, meeting the needs of large gatherings, conferences and special events. In the unlikely event that the lamp burns out, the projector is equipped with a failsafe feature to ensure the image is not interrupted.

In addition to wired networking capabilities, the PLC-XF47 is the first SANYO projector to provide a complete HD-WIRELESS System, which is capable of receiving uncompressed 720p and1080i data wirelessly, from distances approximately 100 feet away with less than one millisecond of latency. The system is robust enough to provide independent frame-by-frame transmissions. It fully supports video data rates of up to 1.5Gbps and operates in the 20MHz bandwidth (conforming to worldwide 5GHz regulations).

To accommodate projection in a variety of locations, the PLC-XF47 accepts up to twelve different lenses to adjust for room and screen size.

The Hybrid Crosstalk Canceller eliminates ghosting of images and reduces signal interference on the LCD panels. Intelligent Sharpness Control automatically analyzes the signal components to select the best sharpness setting for clearer sharper pictures. For increased flexibility, the PLC-XF47 uses the Multi-Versatile Interface Platform, which accommodates a wide variety of exchangeable interface boards allowing user to select the best solution for the desired application.

Other PLC-XF47 Specifications
Resolution: 1024 x 768
Contrast Ratio: 2000:1
Aspect Ratio: 4:3
Throw-distance: 40 to 600-inches
On-Board Audio: None
Video Inputs: DVI-D w/HDCP, Mini D-sub 15 pin, BNC x 5 (RGBHV,Y-Pb/Cb-Pr/Cr, Composite Video), S-Video
Control Ports: Serial Input and Output, USB
Dimensions: 23 (W) x 10 (H) x 32 (D) inches (581x 252 x 812mm)
Weight: 80.5 lbs. (36.5 kg)

PLC-XP100L
The PLC-XP100L uses a single 330-watt lamp, which results in the brightest portable LCD projector with 6500 lumens. SANYO equipped the PLC-XP100L with a full 10bit video circuit for extraordinary picture quality. This lighter and more mobile projector is equipped with the exclusive Active Maintenance Filter System that automatically detects airflow and advances clean filter material when needed. The result is less maintenance and increased reliability. Using this system, filter cartridges can last up to 10,000 hours. Due to its mobility and the Up/Down/Left/Right Lens Shift, providing highly versatile adjustments, the PLC-XP100L is suitable for a variety of applications from the boardroom to the classroom.

Other PLC-XP100L Specifications:
Resolution: 1024 x 768
Contrast Ratio: 2000:1

Aspect Ratio: 4:3
Throw-distance: 31 to 400-inches
Video Inputs: DVI-D w/HDCP, Mini D-sub 15 pin, BNC x 5 (RGBHV,Y-Pb/Cb-Pr/Cr, Composite Video), RCA x 3 (Y-Pb/Cb-Pr/Cr, Composite Video), S-Video
Control Ports: Mini DIN 9-pin (RS232), USB
Dimensions: 14.6 (W) x 7.4 (H) x 17.3 (D) inches (370 x 187 x 440 mm)
Weight: 25.8 lbs. (11.7kg)

MSRP pricing is as follows:

PLC-XF47 October ‘07 $29,995.00
PLC-XP100L September ‘07 $ 9,995.00

Sanyo Demonstrates World’s Brightest Professional-Grade LCD Projectors

Source: Sanyo

SANYO, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of 3LCD projectors will demonstrate the PLC-XL50 LCD Projector during INFOCOMM this week in Anaheim, CA. The unique short throw distance of the PLC-XL50 allows projection in virtually any environment, particularly areas that traditional projectors can not be used, such as floors and desktops.

“The PLC-XL50 will be the projector of choice for many space constrained applications, particularly in the educational and public information markets,” says Mark Holt, the Vice President and General Manager for SANYO’s Presentation Technologies Division. “This is a powerful and revolutionary display tool for the office, digital signage (electronic advertising) and classrooms, creating a more impressive ambience in any location.”

In order for SANYO to shorten the projection distance of the PLC-XL50, new large diameter aspheric (non-spherical) lens and high-precision aspheric mirror technology were developed. A new optical engine was also developed, which enables an 80-inch projection from the short distance of about 3-inches (8 cm). This creates an opportunity to project extremely large images in any room or space that is available.

The proprietary optical and cooling mechanism technology used in the PLC-XL50 allows both vertical and horizontal projection. The new optical engine was created with a high-precision aspheric mirror combined with a distortion correction mechanism lens, enabling large magnification without distortion, even from ultra-short distances. To allow projection either vertically or horizontally, a special cooling mechanism was also essential. The resulting solution is a one-way flow system consisting of an air intake and exhaust mechanism on the main body of the projector — thus allowing optimal positioning of the main components.

By shortening the distance for projection, the options for installation are greatly improved, which includes floor, tabletop and wall mount projection. The variety of applications is almost limitless, providing effective, quick and easy presentations or announcements.

Projecting a large screen on the floor in a pre-school creates a new style of teaching and classroom interaction.
- When installing the projector directly above the screen or blackboard in classroom, the light that once entered the teachers’ eyes and long shadows are a thing of the past.
- Used as a tabletop projector, images can be projected on a dark surface allowing designers and architects to see their designs more visually for review or additional inspiration.
- The projector can be used in department stores to advertise sale products in hallways or on open floor spaces, optimizing the use of all available space.
- It is still possible to project large images when placing the projector directly next to a wall in a small office or meeting room.
-The projector can be used to make announcements on the ceiling, wall or floor at the entrance of a business or in a lobby.

Additional features include Top and Bottom Keystone Correction for proper alignment of the projector, a Color Board Mode, which allows adjustment of the hue when projecting an image on a colored (non-white) surface so that it appears to be projected on a white surface. The additional Black Board Mode enables educational institutions to use the projector with all standardized educational boards.

The PLC-XL50 has been outfitted with a built-in vibration sensor alert. An alarm sounds when the unit is picked up, proving to be an effective theft-deterrent. The unit turns on automatically when the power cord is plugged into an electrical outlet and with the Easy-Off function it’s possible to remove the power cord without waiting for the machine to cool down, which is convenient for quickly clearing away the area after a presentation.

Other Specifications

Brightness: 2000 lumens
Resolution: 1024 x 768
Aspect Ratio: 4:3
Audio: Built-in mono speaker with 2watts of power
PC I/O: Mini D-sub 15-pin Input, Mini D-sub 15-pin (Input or Monitor out)
Video Input: Component Input (RCAx3), Composite (RCA), S-Video
Audio: Stereo mini-jack input and output, Analog stereo input (RCAx2)
Service Port: Mini DIN 8-pin
Dimensions: 14.75 (W) x 7.75 (H) x 19.5 (D) inches (374 x 196.8 x 495 mm)
Weight: 17.25 lbs. (7.8 kg)

It will be available in December ‘07 with a target MSRP under $5,000.