Hitachi Introduces New ALiS Plasma Televisions.

New Sets Feature 1080p Digital Video Processing and Learning AV NET

The Home Electronics Division of Hitachi America, Ltd., a subsidiary of Hitachi, Ltd., today announced its new 2003 plasma television line including 42- and 32-inch models. The 42HDT50 and the 32HDT50 utilize Hitachi's highly acclaimed ALiS (Alternate Lighting of Surfaces) high definition plasma technology and build on the first generation's success with Hitachi's new VirtualHD(TM) 1080 progressive digital video processor.

"Featuring the ALiS technology, Hitachi's new plasma televisions deliver a stunning high definition picture," said Bill Whalen, senior product and marketing manager for Hitachi America, Ltd., Home Electronics Division. "ALiS combined with Hitachi's new VirtualHD 1080p video processor elevates the performance of plasma television to a level where the picture quality is as impressive as the form factor."

Hitachi's significant investments in the Fujitsu Hitachi Plasma (FHP) production facility lead to the development of the heart of Hitachi's plasma television -- the innovative ALiS technology. ALiS forms a seamless, grid-free panel with continuous vertical channels of phosphor material, replacing the grid of contained phosphor cells found in earlier plasma designs. The innovative design creates pixel boundaries electronically which creates a larger aperture, allowing more light to pass through and create a brighter picture.

Hitachi's VirtualHD 1080p digital video processor works in concert with AliS, taking image quality to new levels by improving all incoming non-1080i signal sources up to 1,080 progressive. The processor also adds new automatic 3:2 film correction, new 26-point advanced video processing, six new aspect modes plus HD zoom, new pure digital color management, 1080i/720p/540p/480i input processing, advanced HD Digital Window(TM) split screen and Hitachi's new Learning AV NET.

Other enhanced video features found in the new models include new adjustable color decoder, four-color temperature memory, black and white film color temperature, 4-step black enhancement and digital 4MB 3D Y/C combo filter.
The new sets feature a re-designed silver and black frame with swivel stand and slim Audio Video Control Center box. The AV Center houses dual 181 channel tuners and numerous inputs and outputs including a DVI-HDTV input, RGB D-Sub analog input with audio, two wideband component video inputs, three S-video inputs, four A/V inputs, an A/V output, a variable audio output and a sub-woofer output. Other features include Hitachi's new Day and Night Memory by Input, illuminated preprogrammed remote control, front panel menu controls (AV Center), three-language on-screen display, parental locks, close caption decoder, silent operation (no cooling fans), screen saver and sleep timer.