Panasonic unveiled four new models in the PZ600 series VIERA plasma TVs.
The new models, with screen size of 50, 58, 65 and the world’s largest 103 inches, feature 1080p (progressive) high definition (HD) plasma display panels producing pictures at 1,920 × 1,080 pixel resolution. The four models support terrestrial, broadcast satellite and 110-degree CS digital broadcasts in Japan.
The 50-inch TH-50PZ600, 58-inch TH-58PZ600 and 65-inch TH-65PZ600 models will be available on the Japanese market on September 1. The 103-inch TH-103PZ600 will be built to order with sales scheduled to commence on September 1 and delivery to start from late September.
The new models incorporate the newly developed 1080p PEAKS (Picture Enhancement Accelerator with Kinetic System) plasma panel which achieves blacker blacks and a 4,000:1 contrast in dark surroundings. To maximize the performance of the panel, the new 1080p PEAKS driver supports 16-bit image processing. The PEAKS system includes the new 1080p PEAKS Processor system LSI which is based on Panasonic’s integrated architecture for digital consumer electronics. The new LSI incorporates the HD Optimizer that detects and reduces MPEG noise as it receives digital HD broadcast signals, producing crisp and clear images. The LSI also enables various features such as the Wide Intelligent TV Program Guide. Users can now browse, in one view, all the current and upcoming programs available on 19 channels for up to eight days (12 hours/day at a maximum). That makes it easy for them to search and record favorite programs.
The VIERA Link simplifies control of the home theater system. Using just one VIERA remote control, the user can command various HDMI-connected home theater components such as a DIGA DVD recorder or an AV amplifier.
The new TVs have an SD Memory Card slot for networking versatility with other SD-enabled devices. MPEG2 moving pictures shot with SD Video Cameras or JPEG still images (DCF format) stored on the SD Memory Card can be viewed on a large VIERA screen by taking it out from a camera and inserting it into the slot. The new models further support the SDHC (SD High-Capacity) Memory Card.
