| LAS VEGAS--(BUSINESS
WIRE)--Jan. 9, 2003--Sharp Electronics Corporation Global leadership in LCD technology
highlighted in products ranging from AQUOS(TM) Liquid Crystal Televisions to Viewcam
Camcorders with CG Silicon(TM) Displays. Sharp Electronics
Corporation is showing a myriad of new and updated products at this year's Consumer
Electronics Show in the display, video, audio and PDA categories.
Each of the new introductions reflects Sharp's commitment to unique
one-of-a-kind and high-tech, high-style products.
Sharp has designed a new exhibit for CES that will inform, entertain
and inspire show attendees. The exhibit is highlighted by unique presentations of
AQUOS(TM) Liquid Crystal Televisions in the industry's widest assortment of designs,
colors and screen sizes. In total, Sharp will display 286 AQUOS Liquid Crystal
Televisions, ranging in size from 13-inch 4:3 televisions to 37-inch widescreen models.
"Sharp has steadily built a brand identity based on superior
product performance, upscale design and the ability of our electronics products to change
the way consumers utilize technology in their lives," said Toshiaki Urushisako,
chairman and chief executive officer of Sharp Electronics Corporation.
"Products with one-of-a-kind technologies, like AQUOS, 1-Bit
Audio and Zaurus, are at the foundation of the product and marketing program that
continues to create this distinct identity for the Sharp brand in the U.S."
New products from Sharp's consumer electronics group will be
showcased in multiple complete home theater settings, incorporating the best in high-end
audio, video and display products paired together for the ultimate home entertainment
experience. Products on display include: AQUOS Liquid Crystal Televisions in larger sizes,
high-fidelity 1-Bit Audio systems, a new line of digital Viewcam(TM) camcorders featuring
CG Silicon(TM) technology, the highly-anticipated XV-Z10000U high-definition DLP(TM) front
projector, Sharp's first DVD recorder and the Zaurus line of PDAs.
The following key products will be on display at CES. For additional
details, please see individual product press releases.
AQUOS Liquid Crystal Television
Sharp is the global market leader in Liquid Crystal Television(a)
and the company's AQUOS-branded product line offers the broadest selection available.
- New 16:9 widescreen AQUOS Liquid Crystal Televisions in 30- and
37-inch screen sizes (models LC-30HV4U and LC-37HV4U). A new high definition compatible,
widescreen 37-inch AQUOS and an upgraded high definition compatible, widescreen 30-inch
model were added to the AQUOS line. The 37-inch AQUOS features a new, state-of-the-art ASV
(Advanced Super View) panel outfitted with Sharp's proprietary QS (Quick Shoot)
technology, increasing the response time, which effectively reduces the visual lag
inherent in fast-motion scenes. Both models include an upgraded Audio Video Computer
system (AVC system) which houses the component, S-Video and computer (PC) inputs and is
also equipped with a DVI-D input capable of High Definition Content Protection (HDCP)
protocol. The AVC system also includes Sharp's second generation Computer and Video
Integrated Composer (CV-IC II) System which provides state-of-the-art, proprietary video
scaler circuitry that upconverts standard signals to the native HD resolution of the
televisions. Both the LC-37HV4U and LC-30HVU feature an unprecedented 800:1 contrast
ratio, have WXGA resolution and offer high-definition display capability (720p) so viewers
can watch high-definition television (HDTV) broadcasts in 16:9 format. The LC-37HV4U has
an enhanced WXGA resolution of 1366 x 768, while the LC-30HV4U has a WXGA resolution of
1280x768. Speakers and table stands are included with both products. The 37-inch AQUOS
will be available in February 2003 at a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of
$8,999.95, and the new 30-inch AQUOS will be available in February at an MSRP of
$5,499.95. A 22-inch widescreen AQUOS (model LC-22SV2U) is available now at an MSRP of
$2,999.95.
- 4:3 AQUOS Liquid Crystal Televisions in 13-, 15- and 20-inch screen
sizes. All of these 4:3 AQUOS models feature ASV panels with high brightness, extremely
wide (170 degree) viewing angles, a high contrast ratio (500:1), Black TFT, low-reflection
coating, and a sleek, stylish design. Color availability differs based on model; please
see the enclosed AQUOS fact sheet for details. PC Card models feature a PCMCIA slot that
enables consumers to view digital photos on the AQUOS via any PCMCIA card. All models are
currently available with MSRPs ranging from $999.95 to $2,199.95.
- LCD Technologies.
- CG Silicon(TM) provides an ultra-high performance LCD that consumes
less power and provides advanced functionality, versatility and durability. CG Silicon is
ideal for high-performance mobile information equipment, including phones, PDAs,
camcorders, portable games, digital still cameras and car navigation systems. Sharp
Corporation and the Semiconducter Energy Laboratory Co. of Japan jointly developed CG
Silicon and share the related patents.
- 3D LCD can display 3D images without using special glasses and
provides a highly realistic sense of depth that conventional displays cannot achieve.
Destined to offer new enjoyment levels and open up new markets, 3D LCD will allow Sharp to
contribute to further development and penetration of LCD products. This technology will
support applications in large formats, such as computer displays, LCD TVs, computer
graphics, CAD/CAM, retail sales displays and medical imaging, as well as small/medium
formats for PDAs, electronic organizers/picture books and amusement such as game machines.
Front Projection New DLP Front Projectors. The new SharpVision
XV-Z10000U DLP front projector provides the ultimate in home theater entertainment.
Utilizing the new Texas Instruments Mustang/HD2 DLP chip set, the XV-Z10000U provides a
16:9 aspect ratio with a native resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels. New features include a
switchable contrast/brightness function that allows a 2600:1 contrast ratio in the high
contrast mode. Sharp's second generation Computer & Video Integrated Composer (CV-IC
II) System delivers state-of-the-art, proprietary video scaler circuitry that upconverts
standard signals to the native HD resolution of the projector. Also added as an upgrade
from the original XV-Z9000U model is a DVI terminal, capable of High Definition Content
Protection (HDCP) protocol, which ensures compatibility with next generation high
definition set-top boxes, making the XV-Z10000U a terrific solution for today as well as
tomorrow. The DVI input is also Home Theater PC (HTPC) compatible. The XV-Z10000U is
available for a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $11,995.95. Sharp also
offers two additional DLP front projectors, the Sharp Theago, model DT-200, and the
SharpVision XV-Z90. Both models are currently available at an MSRP of $3,999.95. For
additional details refer to the front projection line press release.
High End Audio
- SD-AT1000 1-Bit Home Theater Package. Sharp's new home theater audio
system is its first to feature so much output power in such a compact package - an
impressive 100 watts per channel(a) for each of the six channels. The system can reproduce
5.1 channels of surround sound, and incorporate Dolby Digital, DTS and Dolby Prologic II
Decoder surround sound capabilities for a true theater sound experience at home. The
SD-AT1000 will be available in May at an MSRP of $499.95.
- 1-Bit Personal Audio System (model SD-EX200). Sharp's powerful 1-Bit
digital audio technology is now available in a compact audio system for any room in the
home. Utilizing a 1-Bit digital amplifier for faithful and crisp sound reproduction that's
almost indistinguishable from the original source, the SD-EX200 is ideal for those that
appreciate high resolution sound in the home or office. Featuring a 2.8 megahertz high
speed 1-Bit amplifier, CD player and tuner, the unit includes 200 watts(a) of total system
power and two-way bass reflex speakers. The SD-EX200 will be available in June at an MSRP
of $399.95.
Viewcam
- Digital Viewcam Camcorders (models VL-Z1U, VL-Z3U, VL-Z5U and
VL-Z7U). Sharp has designed a unique, palm-sized digital Viewcam camcorder line, the new Z
series. These Viewcams are easy to grip, easy to shoot and easy to carry. Combined with
the new design, the Z series models utilize the Viewcam's one-handed styling and
free-angle shooting swivel body, making it simple to get great shots from a comfortable
arm position. All models are equipped with a 500x digital zoom and a 10x optical zoom and
a 2.5-inch CG Silicon view screen, delivering superior resolution enabling users to
instantly assess camera and exposure settings and capture the best pictures and footage
possible. In addition, CG Silicon screens are optimized for use in bright sunlight. The
mega-pixel model VL-Z7U will be available in February for an MSRP of $899, the VL-Z5U will
be available in March at an MSRP of $799, the VL-Z3U will be available in April at an MSRP
of $699 and the VL-Z1U will be available in May at an MSRP of $599.
DVD
- Recordable DVD (model DV-RW2U). Providing unsurpassed picture quality
and functionality for simple DVD recording and viewing, Sharp's DV-RW2 delivers one-touch
digital video recordings onto re-writeable DVDs for storage and long term archiving in a
digital format. As an integrated product, the DV-RW2 offers progressive output and plays
back DVDs, CDs and MP3. The DV-RW2U is ideal for preserving and archiving digital
photographs and home videos. The DV-RW2U's enhanced Disc Navigation System with thumbnail
display provides the user with a Title Menu, allowing the user to instantly choose what he
or she wants to watch from the recorded table of contents. Unlike VHS tapes, DVD-RW allows
for one-touch rewind or return to the main menu to enable easy searching and replay at any
time. The DV-RW2 will be available in March 2003 at an MSRP of $799.95.
- Combination DVD/CD Player (model DV-SL20U). Progressive-scan DVD
player with a built-in CD player, this innovative product plays back CD-R/RW, DVD-R/RW and
even MP3 files. With a slim, sleek look and 3D surround sound, this combination player is
perfect for any home theater area in the house. The DV-SL20U will be available in April at
an MSRP of $179.95.
Zaurus PDA
- New Zaurus Personal Mobile Tool (model SL-5600). Sharp Electronics
Corporation is showcasing its recently announced Zaurus(TM) SL-5600 - the latest addition
to the award-winning Zaurus PDA family - at CES 2003. A powerful and expandable business
PDA with wireless capabilities and multimedia features, including an MP3 player, MPEG4
video player and extended battery life, the Zaurus SL-5600 is perfect for users on the go.
Additionally, Sharp will display cell phones, a new line of X-Flat
flat-tube CRT (cathode ray tube) televisions, high definition plasma televisions and new
mini/micro audio systems. Press materials are available on the full line of Sharp products
that will be displayed at CES.
For more information on Sharp's full line of products, contact Sharp
Electronics Corporation, Sharp Plaza, Mahwah, New Jersey 07430 or call 1-800-BE-SHARP. For
online product information, visit Sharp's Web site at www.sharpusa.com.
Sharp Electronics Corporation is the Mahwah, N.J.-based marketing
and sales subsidiary of Japan's Sharp Corporation, a worldwide developer of the core
technologies that are integral to shaping the next generation of home entertainment
products, appliances, networked, multi-functional office solutions and mobile
communication and information tools. Leading brands include AQUOS(TM) Liquid Crystal
Televisions, 1-Bit(TM) audio products, the SharpVision® line of projection products,
Viewcam® camcorders, Sharp Carousel® microwaves, Imager(TM) digital multi-functional
systems, the Notevision® line of multi-media projectors, and the Zaurus(TM) Personal
Mobile Tool. Sharp Electronics Corporation employs approximately 2,000 people throughout
the U.S. supporting more than 50 product lines.
- (a) In-Stat/MDR Report "DVD Market to Thrive as Players are
Added to More CE Products" 12/17/02
Note to editors: Design and specifications are subject to change
without notice.
All trademarks and registered trademarks are property of their
respective owners.
Contact:
Stanton Crenshaw Communications, New York
Deanna Davis, 212/780-1900 ext. 505
Fax: 212/780-4003
E-mail: ddavis@stantoncrenshaw.com
or
Sharp Electronics Corporation, New Jersey
Karen Mahon, 201/529-9620
Fax: 201/529-8919
E-mail: karen.mahon@sharpusa.com
Source: Sharp Electronics Corporation |