The new 55HDT51 delivers high image quality in a sleek package with a generous screen, although the remote's layout is confusing
The Good Lots of real estate (55 inches) on a motorized swivel base
The Bad Exposes every flaw of standard-definition programming
The Bottom Line Great addition if you're using it mainly for DVDs and high-def content
"IT managers have a lot in common with Rodney Dangerfield: they get no respect," said David Woolf, Senior Marketing Director of NEC Solutions America. "That is why NEC created a micro-site catering to the unique needs of the IT Manager, with a great incentive -- a plasma display!"
The "IT Guy" game site includes tips and tricks for managing projectors and plasma displays, answers to their most frequently asked questions, a glossary of commonly used technical terms in the display market ... and most importantly, an online gaming competition where they can blow off steam and win one of four 61" plasma displays!
To play the online games, simply visit http://www.necitguy.com. The "IT guy" -- or girl -- with the highest score for each of the four games wins an NEC 61XR3 plasma display. The promotion runs from April 1 through September 30, 2005 and is geared toward (but not limited to) education, government and corporate IT managers.
Four fun and challenging games will be offered without interruption throughout the following dates:
The highest score will be announced on http://www.necitguy.com immediately following each game, and the winner also will be contacted by phone.
NEC features the broadest line of product with crystal clear images that work every time. For further information on NEC's commercial and residential lines of projectors and plasma displays, please visit http://www.necvisualsystems.com or call 1-800-NEC-INFO.
About NEC Solutions (America), Inc.
NEC Solutions (America), Inc., is a premier provider of integrated
solutions for the Connected Enterprise in North America. As an affiliate of
NEC Corporation (Nasdaq: NIPNY) (FTSE: 6701q.1), NEC Solutions America taps
into a global resource network to help clients leverage technology to achieve
a competitive edge. Providing mobile enterprise computing systems, biometric
security solutions, business intelligence, projector and plasma display
solutions, business service management and IT professional services, NEC
Solutions America delivers its expertise with the personal attention needed to
address individual situations. With headquarters in Rancho Cordova, Calif.,
NEC Solutions America maintains research, marketing, sales and support
facilities throughout the United States. Information regarding NEC Solutions
America can be found at http://www.necsam.com
Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America Inc. introduced two new plasma monitors at its national dealer line show today. Mitsubishi plasma monitors include Plush(TM) imaging to deliver an unmatched, perfect picture every time.
The new 42-inch PD-4265 and 50-inch PD-5065 feature advanced, industry-leading 12-bit color processing, resulting in more than eight times the number of colors available in traditional plasma products. This high-precision color process delivers more than 68 billion colors for breathtaking vibrant images.
Both monitors include Mitsubishi's BrightCell(TM) plasma technology, which uses thinner, darker cell wall construction for more phosphor area per pixel. The result is a sharper, more detailed picture with remarkably smooth images and bright, vivid colors.
Another feature shared by both displays is Mitsubishi's MicroFilter(TM) technology. Each plasma cell has a matched microfilter that optimizes red, green and blue phosphors to create truly natural color balance and more realistic images.
Each display includes Mitsubishi's six-way color control to allow the user to independently adjust six colors for optimal picture performance. The 42-inch model displays in 1024 x 768 resolution while the 50-inch boasts 1365 x 768 resolution. Both monitors utilize Mitsubishi's Plush(TM) imaging to deliver superior brightness, contrast and color accuracy.
The new models feature an HDMI(TM) input and come with removable low-profile, bottom-mounted speakers and a height-adjustable stand.
In separate announcements, Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America introduced its new lines of LCD flat panel televisions, and Digital Cable Ready LCD and 1080p DLP(TM) microdisplay HDTVs.
Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America Inc.
Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America Inc. manufactures and markets a comprehensive line of premium-quality high-definition projection televisions, HD LCD televisions, and plasma displays, as well as VCRs, DVD players, an HDTV receiver/controller and related products for complete home theater systems. Recognized as the world leader and innovator of digital big screen television and receiver technology, Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America develops audio and video products that lead the industry in quality, performance and ease of use. For additional information about MDEA, visit www.mitsubishi-tv.com.
DisplaySearch reported in two recent reports that plasma TV shipments soared in Q4'04, rising 67percent over the previous quarter and 173 percent year-over-year to a record 1.1 million TVs. The analysts attribute the remarkable growth to strong holiday demand, supported by lower prices and rising interest in flat panel TVs and HDTVs. For the 2004 year, plasma TV shipments rose 155 percent to 2.8 million units.
Blended plasma TV prices were down more than 20 percent Y/Y in Q4’04 to $3,315 from over $4,200 one year earlier.
By region
Plasma TV growth surged worldwide with record results earned in all regions. Plasma TV shipments rose at least 48% sequentially in all regions with China growing the fastest, up 146% Q/Q and 526% Y/Y. Europe overtook North America on 238% to 146% Y/Y growth to enjoy a 35% to 32% share advantage supported by lower penetration of rear and front projection TVs. Japan had the highest HD plasma TV penetration at 93% in Q4’04, significantly higher than North America at 42% and Europe at 38% with Japanese brands focusing on the higher resolution and higher margin formats.
By size
By size, 42"-43" remained dominant, but its share fell from 75% to 74%. 32"-37" rose from 13% to 15% as price conscious holiday buyers opted for smaller sizes, particularly in Europe and Japan. 46" and larger plasma TVs fell from 13% to 11% of the market. 42" enhanced definition (ED, 852 x 480) remained the single most popular format, but declined from 53% to 51% of the market.
By brand
Panasonic remained the leading plasma TV brand with a 19% share. It led the plasma TV market in Japan and North America and held double-digit shares in Europe, China and rest of world (ROW). It had the highest share at 37" ED worldwide and was #2 at 37" HD, 42"-43" HD, 50" HD and 60"+.
LG Electronics remained #2 growing its share to 14.5%, leading in ROW and earning the #2 position in Europe. It was #1 in the dominant 42" ED market as well as at 60"+.
Samsung overtook Sony to become #3 with a 12% share on strong positions in all regions except Japan.
Philips jumped from #6 to #4 on over 100% Q/Q growth due to its strong position in Europe where it was the #1 plasma TV brand.
Sony, Hitachi and Pioneer rounded out the top 7. Sony led at 37" HD, Hitachi led at 32" and 55" and Pioneer was #1 at 42"-43" HD and 50".
In its first quarter of participation, Dell earned a 3% share of the North American PDP TV market supported by a 10% share of the 42"-43" HD market. Aggressive promotions and a disruptive 42" HD price ensured its strong start.
The top three plasma brands worldwide and five of the top seven brands all had internal production. Plasma TV shipments are provided for 26 different brands.
About the market research reports
DisplaySearch's plasma TV shipment data and analysis can be found in its Quarterly PDP Module and TV Shipment and Forecast Report available from $5995 or its Quarterly Global TV Shipment and Forecast Report, which covers all TV technologies, for $8995.
Representatives from DisplaySearch, leading PDP supplier Samsung SDI, and leading TV brands will discuss their outlook for PDPs and other TV technologies at the upcoming 7th Annual DisplaySearch US FPD Conference March 1-3 in San Diego, California.
By Stephan Ohr
SAN FRANCISCO — Engineers and executives of the Panasonic Technologies Co. hit the road this week to tout the advantages of plasma display technology over LCDs. They stressed the advantages of PDPs over LCDs in and viewing angle — especially with flat screen TVs larger than 37 inches.
Panasonic (Secaucus, N.J.), the consumer products division of Matsushita Electric Corp. of America, has been under pressure from critics over the longevity and power consumption of its plasma display products. It recruited Larry Weber, video technologist and former president of the Society for Information Display, to make the case for its PDP technology.
"Plasma is on the defense right now," confirmed Cliff Roth, a consumer industry observer, and manager of CMP's video and imaging design Web site. "As with incandescent lamps, the image brightness deteriorates over time. The plasma TV in your home never looks as good as the day you first bought it." more...
PC Magazine has a review of the Dell W4200 HD Plasma TV. Check it out.
It seems everyone and his brother is flocking into the HDTV business. Even PC makers have gotten into the act, and Dell is certainly no exception. The company has introduced two plasma-based TVs (one HD, one standard) and true to Dell form, has brought its aggressive pricing model to yet another product category. The Dell W4200 HD Plasma TV is a 42-inch HD model that stands out from the pack. Read more
They're skinny, at six inches or less. They're sleek, with some measuring up to five feet long. And they emit an amazing spectrum of hues.
Plasma televisions have become the rage for watching the big sporting event, such as the Super Bowl, or playing a favorite DVD or video game.
A plasma screen is made up of thousands of gas-possessing pixels. When zapped with an electrical charge, the plasma causes phosphors to glow red, green or blue, as ordered by a video signal. The result produces a brilliant array of bright colors.
Many major electronic manufacturers -- such as Hitachi, Panasonic, Philips, Pioneer, Samsung and Sony -- have staked a claim on the plasma-screen playing field, featuring models of different size and reception quality. And while prices have dropped sharply in recent years, a plasma screen TV can still cost thousands of dollars.
Purchasing a plasma screen TV is not an easy endeavor. To help with the decision, here are a few shopping guidelines:
• Screen types. A plasma TV comes in two types: high definition (HD) and the less expensive enhanced definition (ED). The two differ when it comes to the number of pixels in the display. HD plasma screens generally perform better than their ED counterparts when it comes to converting different reception signals. And while ED sets can convert an HD signal to fit its lower resolution, it will still not match HD quality.
• Size vs. price. There's one simple guideline to follow when checking out a plasma screen TV: the larger the screen, the higher the price.
• Plasma ''burn.'' A static image, such as with a video game or scrolling stock ticker, can lead to plasma TV ``burn in,'' leaving a permanent impressions on screen. Some critical reports also suggest that plasma screen TVs may not last as long as common TV sets. Some assessments also say that plasma screens lose half their brightness around 20,000 hours of use. Still, this adds up to almost 10 years of use, based on 40 hours of viewing per week.
• Live wiring. A plasma TV may need wiring to a cable box, satellite receiver, DVD player, VCR or audio receiver. If you hang the screen, its wiring will probably have to go behind the wall. On a stand, however, the wiring can be tucked behind the unit.
• Installation considerations. Despite the thin profile, plasma screens can weight 80 pounds or more. They require adequate cooling ventilation and mounting brackets. It may be worth the expense to have a qualified technician install the screen.
--CONSUMERS UNION
Nationwide Survey Finds Plasma Interest Beats LCD
What's the "most wanted" gift on everyone's wish list? According to a new national survey conducted for Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company, plasma HDTVs are the hot item this holiday season. The survey found that, as the popularity of flat and thin TV climbs, most of those surveyed said they wanted to receive or purchase a plasma TV.
Further, when armed with the facts about the various flat-panel TV technologies, the great majority of consumers opted for plasma over LCD television. The survey confirmed retailers' experience that fast-growing numbers of consumers compare technologies, features and prices on-line, in advertising, and among friends and associates, before coming to the store to look at a new TV. And the survey found that, armed with such facts, more than 60 percent of consumers would opt for plasma HDTV for their new digital display.
Dispelling the Myths
The survey, conducted by Penn Schoen & Berland for Panasonic, determined that more than half (51 percent) of U.S. consumers say they are "confused" by the various flat panel television technologies and the multiple options now available in televisions. It found that most of the confusion lies in comparing the benefits and features between plasma TVs and LCD models.
Once survey participants learned more about the performance and features of plasma television and HDTV, however, more than 60 percent expressed interest in purchasing a plasma HDTV, the performance standard of flat-panel digital televisions.
"Panasonic's plasma televisions are in high demand for the 2004 holiday season. There's an excitement about plasma and high-definition television, and we've found that once consumers see it, and understand the features and benefits, they feel they have to become part of the coolest trend in TV since the introduction of color. That is why Panasonic is committed to educating consumers about plasma and HDTV," said Ed Wolff, Vice President of Panasonic's Display Group.
Panasonic sees the retail relationship as key to consumers' buying decisions. The survey showed that more than eight out of ten consumers report doing some research before going to a retail store, but they rely on retail sales staffs to help them make that all important final purchasing decision.
Plasma TV: Status Symbol and Social Magnet
Just as the first television sets in the 1940s drew neighbors together to experience the new technology, today's flat and thin plasma TV is a social force. Sixty-two percent of those surveyed said they would host more social activities to watch sporting events, awards ceremonies and other special programming if they owned a plasma TV. Nearly half of all respondents said they felt their friends would visit "all the time" if they had a plasma display in their home.
Men Willing to Sacrifice in Exchange for Plasma
While women are making an ever greater share of home electronics purchase decisions, in this survey men demonstrated a greater interest [than women] in owning a plasma TV. In addition, the survey uncovered surprising findings on the value men place on having a coveted plasma TV: Thirty-six percent of the married men surveyed would offer to do the household chores for a year; half (50 percent) of them are willing to let their in-laws visit as often as they want; and 57 percent said their significant other could select all of their vacation destinations for a year, if they could buy a plasma TV. Sixty-eight percent are more than willing to let their significant other choose the location where the plasma TV would sit in the house.
About the Survey
The survey was contracted by Panasonic and conducted by Penn Schoen & Berland Associates, an international research company based in New York City. A total of 1,000 respondents participated in the survey, with a margin of error of the overall sample of +/- 3.1 percent at the 95 percent confidence level.
About Panasonic
Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company, a division of Matsushita Electric Corporation of America, markets a broad line of digital and other consumer electronics products. Based in Secaucus, N.J., Matsushita Electric Corporation of America is the North American headquarters of Matsushita Electric Industrial Co. Ltd. (NYSE: MC - News) and the hub of Panasonic's U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations. Additional information on Matsushita Electric Corporation of America and Panasonic is available at http://www.panasonic.com.
Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. announced today the expansion of its family of commercial-use plasma displays, with the PDP-424MV enhanced definition plasma display. This new plasma joins the high definition PureVision PDP-614MX (61"), PDP-504CMX (50") and PDP-434CMX (43") plasmas, offering commercial users another option for their digital signage, boardroom and other business applications. With the addition of the PDP-424MV, Pioneer has a plasma display solution for any business application or budget.
"The PDP-424MV fills an important place in the public display market, adding to Pioneer's family of professional plasma displays," said Jim Krodel, director of industrial display for Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. "There is occasionally a need in the market to utilize a VGA panel for a specific installation. Now we have the ability to offer that product to our customers. As the industrial marketplace continues to grow, the ability to offer a VGA plasma helps Pioneer to maintain its position as one of the world's leading plasma manufacturers."
Features of the PDP-424MV include:
Pioneer's plasma displays offer significant longevity for a commercial user. Sixty thousand hours is an approximate time for the display panel to reach half of its original luminescence. This approximation may vary depending on source and type of content, settings, environment and use. This approximation does not provide or imply any warranty beyond the manufacturer's standard limited warranty.
The PDP-424MV is shipping this month at a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $2499.
PureVision High Definition Plasma Displays
As one of the first companies to commercialize plasma technology, and the first company to offer a high definition plasma display in 1997, Pioneer offers a wide range of plasma products for commercial users. Headlining Pioneer's family of commercial-use plasma products are its PureVision widescreen XGA plasmas available in 43" or 50" sizes with patented technologies, including the PureDrive(R) for sharper images, deep encased cell structure for brighter displays and PureColor Filter for the most accurate color reproduction. When a larger size display is needed, commercial users can turn to Pioneer's 61" high definition PDP-614MX, which offers a wide viewing angle, and can accurately display personal computer signals ranging from VGA to UXGA.
Expansion Solutions Card Slots
Pioneer's 43" and 50" commercial plasma displays (PDP-434CMX and PDP-504CMX) feature an open architecture expansion slot that enables the user to insert a variety of expansion cards into the plasma itself, changing or enhancing the display's capabilities. These expansion cards work as part of Pioneer's Expansion Solutions(TM) program, which enables third-party developers to create expansion cards specifically for Pioneer plasmas for features including HD processing, video wall processing, wireless enabling, touch-screen capability and more. Pioneer's vision for its Expansion Solutions program is to provide a more future-proof environment for plasma displays by enabling users to modify their display to meet the rapid evolution of display and communication technology.
Pioneer currently offers two of its own expansion cards for its plasmas. The PDA-5003 and PDA-5004 optional video cards provide composite, s-video and component terminals for vivid, vibrant images. The PDA-5003 is equipped with stable BNC terminals, and supports an analog RGB signal through its component terminals. The PDA-5004 is equipped with RCA terminals, for connectivity with many external devices.
The Industrial Display Group of Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. is the leading provider of plasma and video display products for business use. Pioneer introduced the industry's first 50-inch high definition plasma display in 1997 and continues to deliver innovative display solutions for professional audio/video, information technology, trade show, broadcast, legal, medical, education and transportation applications. In an effort to provide the highest quality of customer care, Pioneer professional plasma displays that are purchased through an authorized dealer, include a one-year warranty with convenient on-site service and technical support.
Pioneer Electronics' headquarters is located in Long Beach, Calif., and its U.S. Web address is www.pioneerelectronics.com. Its parent company, Pioneer Corporation, is a leader in optical disc technology and a preeminent manufacturer of high-performance audio, video, computer, car and business markets. The company focuses on four core business domains including DVD, display technologies, Digital Network Entertainment(TM) and components. Founded in 1938 in Tokyo, Pioneer Corporation (NYSE:PIO) employs more than 36,000 people worldwide. Its shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange.
First we hear Sony is exiting the Plasma TV market, and then we hear they are not exiting the Plasma TV market. Sounds like a severe case of miscommunication to me.
Pending transaction further enhances Audiovox's position as a leading supplier of satellite radios
Audiovox Corporation today announced that its subsidiary, Audiovox Electronics Corp. (AEC) has signed a letter of intent to acquire certain assets comprising the business of Terk Technologies Corp. ("Terk") for a purchase price of $13.6 million plus a debenture based on achieving future revenue targets.
Terk is a leading provider of satellite radio receivers and digital antenna products. The Company has an agreement in place to provide existing and develop future car stereo aftermarket products for XM. Some of the Terk's other products include TV and AM/FM antennas with an emphasis today on High Definition (HD) technology. The companies anticipate based on due diligence that Terk's Net Sales for the year ended December 31, 2004 will be approximately $50 million.
Commenting on the deal, John Shalam, Chairman, President and CEO of Audiovox Corporation stated, "The proposed acquisition of Terk marks our first transaction since the sale of our Wireless business to UTStarcom. Terk brings significant expertise in the specialized satellite radio industry, which we have identified as a fast growth high tech market and we believe it will serve to strengthen our position for future growth in that segment."
Patrick Lavelle, President and CEO of AEC stated, "This purchase is yet another step we are taking to further expand our portfolio of technology driven products. It is synergistic to our existing distribution channels as well as internal operations. We already enjoy a leading market position in satellite radio and with the addition of Terk, believe we have further strengthened that position."
In addition to the Terk branded products, Audiovox will also assume the exclusive distribution rights in the United States for Vogel's line of high end LCD and Plasma TV mounting systems. Lavelle further stated, "We are also excited about the potential of the Vogel line due to the projected growth of the flat panel market in the U.S."
The consummation of the purchase is subject to a number of conditions including completion of a definitive agreement and fulfilling due diligence and other terms and conditions customary or applicable to this transaction. The Company anticipates a closing by December 31, 2004 or shortly thereafter.
Shalam concluded, "We continue to evaluate additional business opportunities that can contribute to our company's growth. With a clean balance sheet, little debt and access to capital, Audiovox is well positioned to be a player in the M&A market and it is our intent to continue to pursue strategic acquisitions that will help grow both our top- and bottom-line results."
About Audiovox
Audiovox Corporation is a leading international distributor and value added service provider in the consumer electronics industry. The Company currently conducts its business through Audiovox Electronics Corporation (AEC), a wholly owned subsidiary. AEC is a recognized leader in the marketing of automotive entertainment, vehicle security and consumer electronics products. The company is number one in mobile video and places in the top ten of almost every category that it sells.
Among the lines marketed by AEC are its mobile electronics products including mobile video systems, auto sound systems including satellite radio, vehicle security, and consumer electronics products such as portable DVD players, flat-panel TV's, extended range two-way radios, multi media products like MP3 players, and home and portable stereos. The company markets its products through an extensive distribution network that includes power retailers, 12-volt specialists, mass merchandisers and an OE sales group. The company markets products under the Audiovox, Jensen, Acoustic Research, Advent, Code Alarm and Prestige brands. For additional information, visit http://www.audiovox.com.
BY Joshua Freed
MINNEAPOLIS -- Hanging stockings by the chimney with care? Retailers hope that St. Nicholas soon will be there -- to hang a 42-inch plasma-screen TV.
As prices drop for high-end televisions, sales are leaping. Retailers expect to sell twice as many plasma-screen televisions and three times as many LCD televisions this year, according to the Consumer Electronics Association.
And with new sellers such as Dell and Wal-Mart now in the market, retailers are looking for new ways to differentiate themselves.
Dell and some other sellers will deliver a TV free of shipping charges. Wal-Mart, competing on price, offers a 42-inch plasma TV for $2,000 at many of its stores, about $1,000 less than many other sellers. Many Best Buy stores will send a technician to visit prospective TV buyers at home, at no charge, to measure and suggest other products. more...
By Joshua Freed
Hanging stockings by the chimney with care? Retailers hope that St. Nicholas soon will be there -- to hang a 42-inch plasma-screen TV.
As prices drop for high-end televisions, sales are leaping. Retailers expect to sell twice as many plasma-screen televisions and three times as many LCD televisions this year, according to the Consumer Electronics Association.
And with new sellers such as Dell Inc. and Wal-Mart Stores Inc. now in the market, retailers are looking for new ways to differentiate themselves.
Dell and some other sellers will deliver a TV free of shipping charges. Wal-Mart, competing on price, offers a 42-inch plasma TV for $2,000 at many of its stores, about $1,000 less than many other sellers. Many Best Buy Inc. stores will send a technician to visit prospective TV buyers at home, at no charge, to measure and suggest other products.
"That has been a huge difference between a guy buying just a TV and a guy buying a complete solution," said Joe Brandt, the home theater manager at a Best Buy store in the Minneapolis suburb of Maple Grove.
And that "complete solution" -- such as a sound system and DVD player -- can be a way for Best Buy and others to grab sales it might have missed by selling just the TV. more...
from business week
It leads in the largest, superbright TVs. But rivals are in the game, too.
For years, Pioneer Corp.'s products have been a staple of road trips worldwide. Its car stereos sound great pumping out everything from Schubert to Snoop Dogg, and the company has a long string of achievements to its name, including the first in-dash CD player and the first satellite-based navigation systems -- which have helped make the company the world's top manufacturer of high-end car stereos. But in the living room, Pioneer hasn't been as successful, struggling to climb out from the shadow of brands such as Sony, Panasonic , and Philips.
Now, Pioneer believes it can prosper with a technology better suited to the den than the dashboard. The company is betting billions on plasma display panels, or PDPs -- superbright TVs thin enough to hang on a wall. After buying out NEC Corp.'s PDP business earlier this year for $341 million, Pioneer is one of only five companies that produce them -- and it's the leading maker of PDP TVs larger than 40 inches, usually used for home theater systems. Since launching its first PDP in 1997, Pioneer has expanded production aggressively to four factories, all located in Japan. Its latest, a $245 million facility in Yamanashi prefecture west of Tokyo, opened in September. "People want bigger and bigger TVs, and that means flat panels," says Pioneer President Kaneo Ito. more...
Colour television (CTV) makers expect Indian consumers to switch over to top-end plasma projection and liquid crystal display (LCD) televisions at a rapid rate. The industry expects the nascent segment sales to more than double in 2005 at 35,000 units compared with 15,000 units this year.
Leading players in the segment such as LG, Samsung and Sony are lining up a slew of launches next year to tap the new urban affluent pockets. With an average price of Rs 1,25,000, the flat panel TV market is estimated at around Rs 450 crore.
According to the industry body, Consumer Electronics and Television Manufacturers Association, companies would be more aggressively marketing the high-end TVs to bolster wafer-thin margins in the conventional cathode ray tube (CRT) TVs.
“It is a segment which is poised for a more than 100 per cent growth over five years. As internationally companies shift focus to manufacturing flat panels, prices will also keep coming down, fuelling demand in India,” said Ravinder Zutshi, vice-president (sales), Samsung India. more...
South Korea Monday temporarily banned imports of plasma display panels made by Japan's Matsushita Co., the Financial Times reported.
The action followed a complaint filed with the Korean Trade Commission by LG Electronics claiming Matsushita violated its intellectual property rights. The panels are used in flat-screen TVs and computer monitors.
The battle over technology between the two manufacturers started with Matsushita, which filed an injunction earlier this month to stop LG from selling its products in Japan.
LG retaliated in South Korea, filing similar charges against Matsushita and asking that its products be banned from South Korea.
The KTC agreed with LG and placed a temporary ban on the Japanese panels. It was unclear whether the temporary ban would be made permanent.
Matsushita also markets its products under the Panasonic brand name.
By Carl Wherrett & John Yelovich
Hard on the heels of being the first to announce huge revenues from nano products when most everybody else is still in the lab, Samsung is working on commercializing nano-based field emission displays as the first true nano disruptive technology.
How many of you have got a big-screen plasma TV on your holiday shopping list? Well, scratch it and wait till Xmas 2006 and be the first with nano TV, which utilizes carbon nanotubes to shoot electrons at your screen. They will be thinner and lighter than plasma, and even the more expensive ultra-thin LCD displays, and they will cost you less on your electricity bill. Plasma consumes roughly 500 watts; the nano TV will consume only 100 watts.
So what is it that makes Samsung the technology leader in terms of bringing nano to the marketplace? more...
With plasma Tvs being so hot these days, I'm not surprised that home builders are now using them as incentives for buyers.
"Lennar and US Homes offer home buyers a package that includes a 42-inch plasma TV, a 90-percent efficient furnace, insulated windows and efficient water heaters." Read more here
Chinese flat screen TV maker Xoceco Electronics Co.Ltd has edged into first place in market share for China's homemade plasma display panel (PDP) television market.
PDP televisions made by Xiamen-based Xoceco Electronics Co., Ltd. occupied 17.8 per cent of the domestic market in October this year, 3.9 per cent higher than in September, or 0.5 percentage point higher than that made by Matsushita, according to the latest market research report. ADVERTISEMENT
The top 5 brands are Xoceco (17.8 per cent), Matsushita (17.3 per cent), Samsung (10.3 per cent), LG (7.5 per cent) and Haier (7.0 per cent).
Xiahua's PDP television had maintained the second place on the domestic market for 5 consecutive months before edging into the first.
The top 5 brands of liquid crystal television in terms of market share in October are Xoceco (19.3 per cent), Hisense (12.8 per cent), Philips (8.4 per cent), Sharp (8.4 per cent) and Konka (8.1 per cent).
Pioneer Corp said it may put a new line of plasma televisions into production from 2008 but also sought to clarify media reports on the proposal, specifically concerning where the project will be located.
Pioneer spokeswoman Ema Suzuki confirmed that the company may launch a new plasma TV line, but added that comments made by Pioneer President Kaneo Ito in an interview with the Nihon Keizahi Shimbun had been misunderstood. The newspaper said Pioneer will begin work early next year on the new line but Suzuki added: 'There was a misunderstanding' concerning the line's location.
'President Ito said that given that the estimated global market for plasma display TVs will grow to about 8 mln units in 2008, we have to establish a new line so as to keep the market share of about 20 pct,' she said.
But she added that contrary to the Nikkei report, which mentioned the possibility of locating operations near consumer markets, Pioneer will only manufacture the sets in Japan.
'We are planning to produce plasma displays only in Japan, although some of assembling is being done at our overseas facilities,' she said.
Suzuki also confirmed that Pioneer will set up a project team to develop the new line early next year, with the process taking one or two years.
In the Nikkei interview, Ito said total investment for the production line has not yet been decided, but added that it would not exceed 100 bln yen.
He said the company is looking at an annual production capacity of 500,000 plasma sets, on construction costs of some 27 bln yen. The Nikkei said the new line would raise Pioneer's total annual plasma TV production capacity by 50 pct to some 1.6 mln units. Pioneer began operating a fourth plasma line at a plant in the Yamanashi Prefecture in eastern Japan in October, after it purchased NEC Corp's plasma TV business.
The plant, which is run by the company's subsidiary, Pioneer Display Products Corp, boosted its current total production capacity from 300,000 to 1.1 mln units.
The affected models of consumer plasmas are listed below. Anyone who owns or uses one of these models may contact Pioneer through its toll free hotline at 800-421-1404 to arrange for the free, in-home upgrade. If a consumer model is not listed below, no power supply replacement is needed and no further action needs to be taken. If consumers are not sure if their plasma is affected, they should call the toll free hotline for confirmation.
Consumer Plasma Models (13 listed): PDP-505HD PDP-4330HD PDP-503PU PDP-4300 PDP-5030HD PDP-4304 PDP-5031HD PDP-4310 PRO-1000HD PRO-800HD PRO-1000HDI PRO-800HDI PDP-433PU
More information is available at Pioneer's main website at www.pioneerelectronics.com. Anyone with questions should call Pioneer's toll free hotline at 800-421-1404.
Pioneer Corporation is a preeminent manufacturer of high-performance audio, video and computer equipment for the home, car and business markets. The company focuses on four core business domains including DVD, display technologies, Digital Network Entertainment(TM) and components. Founded in 1938 in Tokyo, Pioneer Corporation employs more than 36,000 people worldwide. Its shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE:PIO). The headquarters of Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. is located in Long Beach, Calif., and its Web address is www.pioneerelectronics.com.
So you want one of those really nice Dell 42" Plasma Tv's or 17" LCD Tv. The bad news is, there's not cheap. The good news is, you can win one in the Dellf Delivers Toy Box Sweepstakes
. There will be 6 weekly drawings, you can either eter by purchasing anything from Dell Home
, or filling out an online entry form.
The prize package consists of the following:
Cadillac Escalade. Approximate Retail Value (“ARV”): $55,000.
Dell 42” Plasma HDTV ARV $3,499
Dell 17” LCD TV ARV $699
Dell Dimension 8400 desktop computer with 19” Flat Panel. ARV $1,750;
Dell Inspiron 700m Notebook. ARV $2,229;
Dell Pocket DJ 5GB Digital Music Player. ARV $199
Dell Axim X50v 624C Handheld. ARV $499
$500 Dell Gift Card ARV $500
Dell 540 Series Printer ARV $189
Training package consisting of three (3) training books ARV $33.
I don't know about you, but I know this would make my Christmas very Merry
Right now, only 4 percent of you are watching a television program in high definition T.V. But by 2010, it's estimated over 85 percent of you will tune in to HDTV. That leaves a lot of new televisions to buy.
Shopping for a TV is very different than just 5 or 10 years ago when most of the technology was essentially the same. Nowadays, there are real differences in how TV's work and what they cost. more...
NEC Makes It Easy and Affordable to Enjoy Vivid, Adaptable and Reliable Large Screen Technology at Home With Friends and Family
Are you tired of going all the way to the movie theater when you want to enjoy an exciting, jaw-dropping entertainment experience? Having your own home theater is now a reality for millions of people throughout the country. Sure, it would be cool to be the envy of your friends by owning the latest flat screen entertainment technology. But it used to seem like something only the rich and famous could afford. Until now.
NEC introduces the new Showcase Series(TM) home entertainment projector and plasma display line which offers first-time buyers to discerning enthusiasts a complete range of vivid, adaptable and reliable large screen display choices. The Showcase Series includes two new wide screen HT projectors and four next-generation plasma models (two 42", a 50" and a 61"), along with the award-winning high-contrast HT1100(TM) projector. And, with the new Showcase Series home entertainment line, consumers can now outfit their entire home room-by-room with NEC large screen displays.
According to Ron Gillies, senior vice president and general manager for the Visual Systems Division of NEC Solutions, studies show that Americans are spending more time at home and using display technology to connect with friends and family. "A projector in the family room or basement is ideal for movie night or a neighborhood video game competition, while a plasma display in the living room or loft offers a sleek, decorative look and space-saving functionality for high definition television, computer use and much more."
Vivid, Adaptable and Reliable
The Showcase Series complete line of home entertainment projectors and plasma displays are engineered in NEC's world-renowned design labs and optimized for vivid image quality, high brightness and resolution and real- life color reproduction in almost any environment. The projectors and plasma displays provide an adaptable range of screen sizes (from 42" to 200") for the entire house, HD signal compatibility to future-proof the investment and a full assortment of intuitive accessories that complement the room. NEC rounds out its Showcase offering with professional grade reliability and performance backed by unsurpassed product service and support.
The estimated street price of the new HT projectors starts at $1,495. They are available now and come standard with a two-year limited parts and labor warranty. The estimated street price of the new plasmas starts at $2,995. They are available now and come standard with a three-year limited parts and labor warranty (one year for the panel).
For further information on NEC's Showcase Series line of projectors and plasma displays, please visit http://www.necvisualsystems.com or call 1-800-NEC-INFO.
Screen Size and Features Combine to Create the Ultimate Presidential Suite
Package
When premium guests check into premium accommodations, they expect a premium in-room entertainment experience.
Now they'll have it, thanks to the world's largest commercially available
plasma display panel, headlining in the LG Electronics booth at the 2004
International Hotel/Motel & Restaurant Show.
The dramatic new 71-inch widescreen plasma high-definition television
(HDTV) monitor ideally suited for the most-exclusive Presidential Suites.
The first plasma display panel (PDP) measured in feet, not inches, Model
MW-71PY10 boasts 1920 x 1080p resolution, the highest-definition format
available. Driven by LG's exclusive XD Engine(TM), this 71-inch PDP displays
crisp, brilliant HDTV images.
LG's XD Engine technology takes low-resolution analog signals to near
high-definition levels by minimizing distortion and noise while enhancing
details and colors. The result is a more film-like picture with truer colors
and more realistic images. XD Engine technology also is available in the
company's new 42- and 50-inch PY10 plasma series models, and all of its LCD
(liquid crystal display) and Digital Light Processing (DLP(TM)) HDTVs.
A variety of inputs include DVI+HDCP, HDMI, RS-232C and PC. Flexible PIP,
split-zoom and twin-picture features allows sub-windows to be moved, resized,
swapped, and split into multiple windows (up to nine). Model MW-71PY10
complements LG's extensive line of PDPs, which include models in screen sizes
ranging from 42 to 71 inches.
LG Electronics USA, Inc., (LGEUS) is the North American subsidiary of LG
Electronics, Inc., a $30-billion global leader in consumer electronics,
information technology and communications products. LGEUS is comprised of four business units: Digital Appliance, Consumer Electronics, Information
Technology, and Mobile Phones. In providing cutting-edge, performance-driven
products for the largest digital market in the world, LGEUS's goal is to
enable the intelligent networking of digital products that will make
consumers' lives better than ever and deliver on its marketing promise of "LG:
Life's Good." For more information, please visit http://www.lgcommercial.com
Are you tired of going all the way to the movie theater when you want to enjoy an exciting, jaw-dropping entertainment experience? Having your own home theater is now a reality for more people than ever before. Sure, it would be cool to be the envy of your friends by owning the latest flat screen entertainment technology. But it used to seem like something only the rich and famous could afford. Until now.
NEC introduces the new Showcase Series home entertainment projector and plasma display line which offers first-time buyers to discerning enthusiasts a complete range of vivid, adaptable and reliable large screen display choices. The Showcase Series includes two new wide screen HT projectors and four next-generation plasma models (two 42", a 50" and a 61"), along with the award-winning high-contrast HT1100 projector. And, with the new Showcase Series home entertainment line, consumers can now outfit their entire home room-by-room with NEC large screen displays.
The Showcase Series complete line of home entertainment projectors and plasma displays are engineered in NEC's world-renowned design labs and optimized for vivid image quality, high brightness and resolution and real- life color reproduction in almost any environment. The projectors and plasma displays provide an adaptable range of screen sizes (from 42" to 200") for the entire house, HD signal compatibility to future-proof the investment and a full assortment of intuitive accessories that complement the room. NEC rounds out its Showcase offering with professional grade reliability and performance backed by unsurpassed product service and support.
The estimated street price of the new HT projectors starts at $1,495. They are available now and come standard with a two-year limited parts and labor warranty. The estimated street price of the new plasmas starts at $2,995. They are available now and come standard with a three-year limited parts and labor warranty (one year for the panel).
For further information on NEC's Showcase Series line of projectors and plasma displays, visit www.necvisualsystems.com
#1-Rated Plasma!
Panasonic's TH-42PWD7UY EDTV
UGXA Resolution And 10% Brighter Image!
This is the top-rated plasma image quality winner! The TH-42PWD7UY, Panasonic's newest and most advanced 42" plasma display panel, offers the industry’s highest contrast and exceptional gradation and colorimetry, giving you the sharpest, most exciting images for your home theater or business display. New Features like an Advanced Real Black Drive System, flexible Picture-in-Picture Modes, and Super Real Gamma System combine to deliver the absolute cutting edge of plasma display innovation.
The TH-42PWD7UY is a 42" 16:9 aspect ratio Plasma TV. Delivers extremely vivid high resolution images. The images are so bright they can be viewed in environments with bright ambient light. The Flat 16:9 aspect ratio screen offers absolutely no distortion from edge to edge, and is also switchable to a 4:3 aspect. The TH-42PWD7UY incorporates advanced digital processing technology including a Real Black Drive System, Adaptive Brightness Intensifier, False-Edge Predictor circuit, and UXGA resolution.
Note: Stand shown sold seperately!| Specifications | ||
| 42" | ||
| 16:9 | ||
| 4000:1 | ||
| 0.897 x 0.657 mm | ||
| 852 x 480 | ||
| 40.2" x 24" x 3.5" | ||
A Closer Look
Features
Control: Remote controller, Built-in Keys ( Menu, Volume, select,
power)
Input /Output
Environmental Considerations
A Closer Look
Features
PDP, LCD Fight Price War Over Future of Digital TV
As Plasma Display Panel (PDP) televisions and Liquefied Crystal Display (LCD) televisions compete fiercely for leadership of the digital TV era, LCD TV appears to have taken a lead recently due to sweeping price cuts.
Though LCD TV leads PDP TV in picture resolution and longevity, it couldn't avoid a tough game in the market due to its high price. However, the price of LCD panels, which accounts for one-third of the LCD TV’s prime cost, has recently been plunging US$50 monthly, and the LCD side launched its price offensive. more...
NEW YORK — Sony Style retail stores will offer customers the chance to share a holiday wish with family and friends around the country via interactive store window displays. Passers-by can enter the store and create a holiday wish at a dedicated Web site available via kiosks in the 13 Sony Style stores, according to a news release.
The messages will be sent to a Sony Style store of the sender's choice and displayed on a variety of Sony plasma displays and televisions in the store windows for long-distance friends and relatives to enjoy. An e-mail is then sent to recipients to alert them of the time and date their message will be displayed.
"The Holiday Wishes window displays demonstrate Sony's innovation and will encourage consumers to venture inside, test-drive our products and inspire them to create their own festive messages," said Christine Belich, executive creative director of Sony Style retail stores.
