News

5/9/2003

Texas Instruments DLP Technology to Feature Heavily at CEDIA EXPO 2003

Home Entertainment Products That Are 'Setting the Pace'

CEDIA Expo will once again provide a showcase for the rapidly growing numbers of home entertainment products - home theater systems and large screen TVs - featuring Texas Instruments (TI) DLP technology. As in previous years, TI's customers will take the opportunity to announce exciting new products, many based on the very latest developments in DLP technology.

"At CEDIA last year, it was very apparent that projectors and TVs featuring DLP technology led the market in image quality, attractive styling and affordability," said Dale Zimmerman, Business Manager, DLP(TM) Home Entertainment at TI's DLP(TM) Products division. "This year, we expect that leadership to be even more apparent as our customers continue to leverage the unique advantages of DLP technology to develop products that are setting the pace across the spectrum of home entertainment applications."

Among the companies exhibiting products based on DLP(TM) technology are:

Digital Projection (Booth 1012) will feature the company's growing range of projectors designed specifically for home entertainment applications. New for the show is the Mercury HD, a projector based on 3-chip HD2 16:9 aspect ratio DLP(TM) technology. Based on the smaller, lighter 'Mercury' chassis first introduced by Digital Projection in the form of the Mercury 5000gv at NAB earlier in the year, the Mercury HD delivers 2,400:1 contrast and 1,750 lumens. New also is the Home MediaWall, a multi-million pixel home entertainment and information display. The Home MediaWall utilizes projectors featuring DLP(TM) technology, and it is, says Digital Projection, a flexible, multi-source display tool with the ability to window up to four applications in one visually powerful, large-screen display.

Digital Projection will also demonstrate the iVision HD. Delivering 1,000 lumens of brightness at a contrast ratio of 2,300:1, the iVision HD weighs 6.5lbs and comes standard with a 1.75-2.25:1 zoom lens as well as a soft-shell carrying case and infrared remote control. For an additional price, the iVision HD can be outfitted with a 1.0:1 wide-angle lens. Other optional accessories include a ceiling mount. Also featured in the booth will be the HIGHlite Gold and Platinum HC projectors.

In conjunction with the company's booth presence, Digital Projection will also feature a private screening room located in the Victory Ballroom at the Adam's Mark Hotel. The above products will be showcased as will the HIGHlite DSX 3-chip projector and the iS10 digital cinema projector based on DLP Cinema(TM) technology. The screening room will be open Friday September 5th and Saturday September 6th from 4:00pm until 7:30pm. The company says that free refreshments will be available.

DreamVision (Booth 302) will announce and show for the first time the company's DreamWeaver II projector. Based on 'Matterhorn' 1,024 x 576 resolution 16:9 aspect ratio DLP(TM) technology, DreamWeaver II includes DCDI+(TM) video processing from Faroudja, a Carl Zeiss optical system and 8 video inputs. It delivers 1,100 lumens at a contrast ratio of 1,500:1 and is available in three finishes: Black Titan, Glossy White and Silver Star. DreamWeaver II joins the original DreamWeaver, which is similar in all respects expect that it features HD2 1,280 x 720 resolution 16:9 aspect ratio DLP(TM) technology. Also featured in the DreamVision booth will be the CinemaTenPRO. With a resolution of 1,024 x 768 and delivering 1,100 lumens at a contrast ratio of 1,100:1, the CinemaTenPRO includes an all-glass Carl Zeiss optical system, a video processor designed by DreamVision, 8 video inputs including true RGB through 5 BNC, DVI, digital keystone correction and a learning remote control that can control up to ten other components. An optional long throw lens is available.

Announced at CEDIA Expo 2003 by DWIN (Booth SR5) is the 3rd generation TransVision(TM)3 High Definition Projection System. Featuring HD2+ 1,280 x 720 resolution 16:9 aspect ratio DLP(TM) technology, the TransVision(TM)3 also includes DWIN's Digital Video Processor. This separate component design provides, says the company, the greatest installation flexibility, eliminates double processing of video signals and enables complete digital connectivity from digital video sources to the display. It also employs a Prism Free Optical light path architecture which, according to DWIN, guarantees maximum picture contrast, and uses a precision Carl-Zeiss(TM) zoom lens which allows for single lens throw distances ranging from 1.41 to 2.1 times the screen width. Additionally, the TransVision(TM)3's lens shift mechanism allows a keystone-free image by providing an optical projection offset adjustment. Unlike rival projectors that provide an optical projection offset adjustment up to lens level, DWIN says that the TransVision(TM)3 offers greater optical projection offset, ranging from lens level up to 40% of picture height. The advantage, according to the company, is that the screen can be positioned at a comfortable viewing level while the TransVision(TM)3 projector is flush- mounted to the ceiling.

The TransVision(TM)3's Digital Video Processor, which can be located near all video sources, accepts a total of 10 video inputs: 2 DVI/HDCP, 2 RGB, 2 component, 2 S-video, and 2 composite and delivers 720p DVI signals matching the projector's native resolution. To accommodate installers, DWIN has developed proprietary DVI cables designed to easily run through a 1" conduit and offers DVI cables in lengths of 25 to 50 feet in 5 feet increments.

InFocus(R) Corporation (Booth 1628), the worldwide leader in digital projection technology and services, will showcase its award-winning family of ScreenPlay products and unveil the newest addition to its product line, the ScreenPlay 7205. The ScreenPlay 7205 features the latest HD2+ 16:9 aspect ratio 1,280 x 720 resolution DLP(tm) technology, delivering higher contrast, higher brightness and superior picture quality.

InFocus' ScreenPlay projectors are geared, the company says, to provide a superior home theater solution for every enthusiast at nearly every price point, from the first time buyer who just wants to experience the huge image that a projector can deliver, to the most dedicated videophiles who want to create a movie theater in their own home. The recently launched ScreenPlay 4800 and ScreenPlay 5700 will also feature at CEDIA 2003. The ScreenPlay 4800 delivers native SVGA (800 x 600) resolution, 1,100 ANSI lumens and a 2,000:1 contrast ratio and 16.7-million colors at a price that InFocus claims establishes a new level of affordability for purpose-designed home theater systems. The ScreenPlay 5700 is the first home theater projector to ship with Matterhorn DLP(TM) technology, which provides native 16:9 resolution in the United States as well as in native wide PAL countries.

Loewe (Booth 1500) will introduce Articos 55, a 55 inch diagonal widescreen rear projection HDTV that is part of its Systems family of products. The Articos 55 features the HD2 DLP(TM) chipset, a six-element color wheel and a custom-designed light engine co-developed with Carl Zeiss delivering 1,000:1 contrast. The Articos 55 features Loewe's DMM Plus video processing that includes Digital Motion Detection, with user-selectable reverse 3-2 pull-down correction and newly enhanced de-interlacing, with Diagonal Contour Control to provide smooth edges on diagonal objects. Connectivity includes a DVI/HDCP input, VGA/RGB in, two sets of HD component inputs and three sets of S-Video/composite inputs which are coupled with analog and digital audio inputs as well as a subwoofer and digital audio out, allowing the Articos to be the switching center of a complete A/V system. Also included is RS-232 control as well as 'IR Blaster' and Loewe S-Link, a Loewe plug-and-play bi-directional control link that allows intelligent automated operation of a complete Loewe A/V system. The Articos also features what the company describes as an optically pure, neutral tempered glass contrast filter. It is available in three finishes; Multi-layered Platinum, Basalt and High-Gloss Basalt. A range of Loewe stand and furniture options allow the Articos, says the company, to fit into the home in a variety of ways and includes remote-controlled, automated motorized bases to optimize viewing.

In booth 320, Marantz will announce the VP-12S3 High-Definition Projector, which is among the first to feature HD2+ DLP(TM) technology with improved contrast, brightness and image quality: Marantz says that both brightness and contrast are increased significantly relative to the VP-12S2. The VP-12S3 includes a yellow notch filter for more realistic reproduction of green hues, a color wheel with an additional dark green color segment to reduce green video noise in dark scenes, and a new 200-watt DC lamp designed to eliminate flicker and maintain a more uniform brightness throughout the life of the bulb.

The VP-12S3 utilizes Minolta lenses specially built for Marantz, and features progressive scan output with 3:2 pulldown: it also utilizes Faroudja DCDi(TM) technology, and can operate in either native progressive scan mode or upconvert video sources, depending on the signal source.

The Marantz VP-12S3 provides an expanded range of installer and user adjustments, including an additional iris setting for greater control of brightness and contrast, and a wider range of color temperature and gamma adjustments. These improvements, along with the projector's auto-calibration system, result in a picture that the company says must be seen to be believed. The VP-12S3 also offers a full complement of video connections including two component video inputs, plus DVI, HD component video, S-video and composite video connections, and analog RGB computer inputs.

For integrated operation in a custom installation, the VP-12S3 includes RC-5 remote in/out connections, an RS-232C control port and two DC trigger connections that can trigger two different operations. All functions are accessible via the VP-12S3's new illuminated remote control and on-screen menu.

New for CEDIA from NEC Solutions America (Sound Room #18 and Booth 9) will be the WT600. The WT600 is, says the company, the first projector to incorporate an aspherical mirror, lensless architecture that allows it to achieve the shortest throw distances of any projector currently available. The WT600 can be positioned at a distance of only 2.5" from the screen and deliver a 40" image: at 26", it can deliver a 100" image. It features XGA resolution, brightness of 1,500 lumens and a contrast ratio of 3,000:1. In NEC's Eco-Mode(TM), lamp life is 3,000 hours and operating noise is 32dBA. The WT600 also incorporates NEC's ImageExpress(TM) wired and wireless networking technologies for the ability to communicate from a PC to the projector through a wired LAN system using a 10 base or a wireless system via Wi-Fi 802.11b.

Also on display at the NEC booth will be the HT1000(TM) home theater projector, part of the ShowCase Series(TM) product line with the Optimorph anamorphic lens. The HT1000 utilizes an XGA resolution DLP(TM) subsystem with 6-segment color wheel and achieves a 3,000:1 contrast ratio through a variable iris that stops down the lens and NEC's chip-based SweetVision Technology(TM). This is a proprietary chip developed by NEC which the company claims adds additional digital contrast enhancement resulting in images that are more vibrant, colors more realistic and blacks richer in detail. The projector is characterized by a choice of aspect ratio display modes and can vertically shift the image to the top of the screen to eliminate black bars. Weighing 7.1lbs, it delivers 1,000 ANSI lumens of brightness at a contrast ratio in excess of 2,000:1 in normal operation. Brightness can be adjusted to 800 lumens in Eco-Mode(TM), delivering extended lamp life and lower fan operating noise (29dBa). The lens is manual zoom, focus and iris. NEC says that theHT1000 is compatible with 1080p, 1080i, 720p, 576p, 576i, 480p, and 480i. Supported inputs include one DVI-D, one RGB, one set of 3 RCAs for component, one S-video, one composite jack, a PC card reader, optional networkability and four mini-audio jacks. Outputs include a screen trigger and one PC control.

In booth 1516, Optoma Technology, Inc. will demonstrate the award-winning H76(TM) home theater projector, which Optoma claims establishes a new price point for projectors based on HD2 DLP(TM) technology, and which will be available in the third quarter of 2003. The H76 delivers true 720p resolution, 1,000 lumens, and a 2,000:1 contrast ratio. It features a 16:9 native aspect ratio, lens shift, electronic zoom and focus, four-way digital keystone correction, dual +12 volt relay, a Pixelworks 465 scaler, and what the company claims is a state-of-the-art deinterlacer offering the most advanced adjustability available. Additionally, the H76 offers a short throw ratio to provide more options for projector placement in home theaters with limited space. It has NTSC/PAL/SECAM video compatibility for worldwide operation with inputs including S-Video, DVI-I, Composite, Component, BNC, and HDTV (480i/p, 576p, 720p, and 1080i). The H76 is one of the quietest projectors available with audible noise of 28dBA (25dBA in economy mode).

Optoma will also demonstrate its award-winning line of HDTVs. The 50-inch OptomaTV RD-50(TM) and 65-inch RD-65(TM) HDTVs both use HD2 DLP(TM) technology, and feature a native 16:9 aspect ratio, a 1,500:1 contrast ratio, and true HDTV compatibility (up to 720p). These models feature 1,280 x 720 resolution and include non-reflective, fine-grade screens. OptomaTVs support a variety of computer and video inputs in addition to PIP and POP functions for videoconferencing and other applications. The RD-50 measures 14.8-inches deep -- which Optoma says is the slimmest TV of this screen size available -- and weighs 90 pounds. The RD-65 measures 22-inches deep and weighs 215 pounds.

Also appearing at CEDIA is the award winning Optoma H56(TM) home theater projector, which, according to Optoma, establishes a new level of pricing for a DLP(TM) technology-enabled home theater product with XGA resolution. The H56 delivers 1,000 lumens, a contrast ratio of 2,000:1 and features Optoma's proprietary color tuning and picture adjustment memory function for each input signal. Inputs include Video, S-Video, VGA, DVI, and Component/HDTV.

Runco (Booth 106) will showcase a broad range of the company's products designed for home theater and home cinema. First shown in June, the Reflection CL-510 and the CL-510LT feature 'Matterhorn' 1,024 x 576 resolution 16:9 aspect ratio DLP(TM) technology. Both projectors feature what RUNCO calls 'GEN 3' technology which the company claims delivers deeper blacks, greater contrast, rich color saturation and higher brightness. Also featured is what Runco says is a sophisticated color balancing system resulting in the industry's best gray scale tracking with performance far surpassing the capabilities of CRT projectors. Both projectors deliver 900 lumens with a contrast ratio of 1,700:1. Integrated video processing/scaling incorporates 3:2 pulldown compensation. The CL-510 offers a variable throw distance of 1.75:1 to 2.0:1, while the CL-510LT provides a longer variable throw distance of 2.3:1 to 3.0:1. Both models include electronic keystone correction for installation flexibility. Also featured are the Reflection CL-710 and CL-710LT, based on HD2 1,280 x 720 resolution 16:9 aspect ratio DLP(TM) technology. Featuring similar color and video processing capabilities to the CL-510 and CL-510LT projectors, the CL-710 and CL-710LT deliver 1,000 lumens at a contrast ratio of 1,800:1. The CL-710 offers a variable throw distance of 1.4:1 to 1.6:1, while the CL-710LT provides a longer variable throw distance of 1.85:1 to 2.4:1.

To be demonstrated in the Vidikron booth (Booth 106) are four products which, the company says, mark the rebirth of the Vidikron brand. These are the Vision(TM) Series Model 40/Model 40ET and the Model 20/Model 20ET. The Vision Model 20 and Model 20ET feature 'Matterhorn' 1024 x 576 16:9 aspect ratio DLP(TM) technology and deliver 850 lumens at a contrast ratio of 1,500:1. The Vision Model 20 offers a variable throw distance of 1.71:1 to 2.06:1, while the Model 20ET provides a longer variable throw distance of 2.2:1 to 3.1:1. The Vision Model 40 and Model 40ET are based on HD2 1,280 x 720 resolution 16:9 aspect ratio DLP(TM) technology, feature brightness of 950 lumens and a contrast ratio of 1,600:1 and are available with, respectively, variable throw distance of 1.38:1 to 1.63:1 and 1.80:1 to 2.40:1. All of these models ship with what Vidikron describes as professional grade lenses and feature a unique 'cat's eye' optical system that enhances contrast, says the company, and optimizes black level performance.

Samsung Electronics America (Booth 324) will introduce a new home entertainment projector based on DLP(TM) technology. Designed and developed in collaboration with Joe Kane, Samsung's SP-H700A incorporates HD2 DLP(TM) technology. New for this projector is Samsung's CCR(TM) auto-calibration corrector that, says the company, facilitates a more accurate and faster calibration using the new Digital Video Essentials(TM) software package. Preliminary specifications for the SP-H700A indicate a choice of operating modes. In 'normal mode', brightness is 800 lumens with a contrast ratio of 1,500:1 and audible noise of 32dBA: in 'theater mode', brightness is 650 lumens with a contrast ratio of 1,800:1 and audible noise of 28dBA. The SP-H700A includes a manual zoom lens and user-adjustable color temperature. Inputs include HDCP-compliant DVI, composite, s-video, 2 x component, PC and RS232C.

Samsung -- the first company to bring to market 'second generation' large screen, table top TVs based on Mustang/HD2 DLPT technology -- will also feature the 61" HLN617W, 50" HLN507W and the 43" HLN4365W. All the company's large screen TVs based on DLPT technology feature DVI connectivity, 1,280 x 720 progressive display resolution for all inputs, a dual tuner picture-in- picture feature, and a DVD (480i/480p) auto sensing component video input. In addition all these models include Faroudja's DCDi(TM) (Directional Correlational Deinterlacing), Faroudja's patented auto-sensing 3:2 pull down system, and Samsung's proprietary DNIe(TM) (Digital Natural Image engine) which the company says delivers enhanced contrast, detail, white tone and noise reduction.

Sharp Electronics Corporation (Booth 508) will showcase updated versions of two of the company's flagship DLP(TM) technology-based home entertainment projectors. The XV-Z12000U is based on the company's XV-Z10000U and features HD2+ DLP(TM) technology, enabling it to deliver contrast ratios between 3,000:1 and 5,000:1 in high contrast mode and 900 lumens in high brightness mode. HD2+ DLP(TM) technology allows the XV-Z12000U to feature improved (10 bit) processing of the green channel, reducing the 'dithering' artifact that was previously perceptible in dark scenes. The XV-Z12000U also features a 'Film Tone' mode that allows the projector, says Sharp, to reproduce a 'film-like' atmosphere.

The XV-Z200 updates the XV-Z90U, and features Matterhorn DLP(TM) technology for a 16:9 aspect ratio resolution of 1,024 x 576. Contrast ratio is 2,000:1, and brightness is 800 lumens. The XV-Z200U incorporates a 5,000 hour lamp and, in eco-mode, audible noise is 30dBA. Also featured is a manual optical lens shift, and DVI-I (Component Digital and Analog RGB).

New for the show from SIM2 Multimedia (Booth 101) is the Domino 20 projector. Based on Matterhorn DLP(TM) technology, the Domino 20 features a motorized zoom lens and focus adjustment with lens shift of +/- 10 degrees and digital keystone adjustment of +/-38 degrees vertical and +/-14 degrees horizontal. Contrast ratio of the Domino 20 is 2,000:1, which includes Faroudja DCDi(TM) technology and a range of inputs/outputs including composite video via RCA connectors, S-VHS via mini DIN 4 pin, RGBHV via Dsub 15, RGBS/YcrCbS via 4 RCA connectors and RS232 via Dsub 9 pin connector. It is available in 'Black Shadow' or 'White Evolution' finishes.

SIM2 will also show the HT300 LINK projector, which comprises two physically separate units -- a projector, and an image processor. The projector, which uses HD2 DLP(TM) technology in a sealed housing and features a contrast ratio of 2,800:1 and an 8,000 hour lamp is attached to SIM2's DigiOptical Image Processor via a fiber optic cable. The DigiOptical Image Processor features a broad range of inputs/outputs, including: 2 composite video via RCA connectors; 2 S-VHS via mini Din 4 pin connectors; 2 RGB via DB 15 HD connectors; 3 RGBH/V / YCrCbH/V via RCA connectors; 1 RGBH/V / YCrCbH/V via 5 BNC connectors; 1 RS232 via DB 9 pins connector; 1 DVI on DVI-D connector (1394 Firewire is optionally available as an alternative to DVI); 3 fiber optics links via RJ-45 type LC connectors; 1 x jack 12V power output, active when the product is switched on.

Also on show will be the SIM2 Grand Cinema RTX, a large screen display available in both 45" and 55" screen sizes. Featuring Mustang/HD2 16:9 native aspect ratio and 1,280 x 720 resolution DLP(TM) technology, the Grand Cinema RTX is built around a proprietary, sealed optical engine to minimize the impact of dust.

Thomson (Booth 408) is represented by two high-definition television products -- the RCA Scenium HDLP61W151 61-inch and RCA Scenium HDLP50W151 50-inch widescreen HDTVs featuring Texas Instruments HD2 Mustang DLP(TM) technology for improved brightness. The company claims these new sets deliver twice the contrast and pitch of a CRT projection TV. Both RCA Scenium sets feature integrated ATSC tuner with QAM cable demodulation capability, enabling the TVs to receive local broadcasts over digital cable channels without a separate set-top box. Also featured are a built-in web browser, and multiple copy protection interfaces.

The HDLP61W151 and HDLP50W151 incorporate the exclusive Thomson Hi-Pix picture system. Hi-Pix combines two proprietary signal processing technologies that intelligently recognize incoming signals and convert them for what Thomson describes as optimum rendering on the DLP(TM) engine. Both RCA Scenium HDTVs include a 30-watt, four-speaker package incorporating two passive radiators to deliver exceptional fidelity in the thin design, according to the company. The sets offer SRS TruSurround XT(TM) and two outputs for external speakers. For true Dolby Digital(R) surround, an optical audio out is provided for hook-up to an external audio receiver and speaker system while the TVs' internal speakers can be used as a 60-watt center channel.

Yamaha Electronics Corporation (Booth 218) will feature the DPX-1000 projector, based on HD2 DLP(TM) technology with its native 16:9 aspect ratio and 1,280 x 720 resolution. The DPX-1000 features a precision-ground Fujinon 1:1.6 motorized zoom lens together with motorized lens shift and digital keystone correction. The projector also includes a fine-tuning capability that allows user adjustment of black/white/fleshtone levels and color balance. Incorporating a Sirocco fan, together with a tri silencer duct, allows the DPX-1000 to operate at a noise level below 30dBa. The airflow is also designed to keep heat waves away from the image path to prevent shimmering. The DPX-1000 uses a six segment color wheel and features Faroudja DCDi(TM) (Directional Correlational De-interlacing) video processing for NTSC signals and Yamaha's original area adaptive scaling for 1080i HD signals. Video inputs provided include a DVI-D input which provides a direct digital connection for an uncompressed High Definition video signal with HDCP compatibility: this is complemented by component video with BNC terminals, RGB, composite and S-video inputs. In addition, the DPX-1000 features a PC standard RS-232 serial port which enables control of the projector via a computer or system controller. For additional system integration, a +12V trigger can activate a motorized screen when the projector is powered on or off.

In booth 206, Zenith will feature two products based on DLP(TM) technology. The Model RD-JT30 projector weighs 3.6 pounds, and features XGA native resolution that supports both 1080i and 720p HD formats. A proprietary color drum, in place of the conventional color wheel, allows it to achieve a small size while still yielding what the company says is top-level performance in brightness and contrast. The RD-JT30 delivers 1,400 lumens of brightness at a contrast ratio of 1,100:1. Faroudja DCDi(R) deinterlacing circuitry and Zenith's Intelligent Image Scaling are also features of the projector.

Zenith's 44-inch widescreen rear-projection TV will also be at CEDIA 2003. Based on HD2 Mustang DLP(TM) technology, it has a resolution of 1,280 x 720. Features include dual-tuner Picture-in-Picture (PIP), split-screen and Picture-outside-Picture (POP) capabilities, a Digital Visual Interface with High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (DVI + HDCP), an extensive connection panel, and multi aspect ratio correction. The unit is expected to be available in March 2004.

TI's DLP(TM) Products division supplies subsystems to virtually all the world's top projection and display manufacturers, who then design, manufacture and market products based on DLP(TM) technology. Since early 1996, over 2,000,000 DLP(TM) subsystems have been shipped. DLP(TM) technology delivers clear, bright, and sharp pictures in a broad range of projection applications including business data projectors, home theater projectors, large screen tabletop TVs, commercial rental and staging systems and digital cinema.

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