Runco Stays On Top As It Introduces Two New Plasma Displays That Will Perform At Altitudes Of 9,000 Feet And Higher!

UNION CITY, CALIFORNIA — May 18, 2004 — Runco International, the world leader in high-end home theater video display technology, announced the introduction of two new plasma display monitors that are going places plasma is only starting to venture—high altitudes.

“We are excited to offer people living at altitudes of up to 9,000 feet above sea level the state-of-the-art home theater experience they ought to have,” said Bob Hana, president of Runco. “Our plasmas produce lifelike, high definition images that make watching movies truly immersive—and they’re beautiful to look at in and of themselves. Our high-altitude models offer unparalleled signal processing power, broad source connectivity options, and refined designs that simplify the challenges of custom installation. The Runco team is proud to put those benefits in the high up homes of theater enthusiasts who don’t want to compromise the quality of their viewing experience.”

Runco’s two newest plasma displays will enhance the existing line of available models that address the needs of high altitude applications. Joining Runco’s CinemaWall™ CW-42i and CW-61, and the PlasmaWall™ PL-61cx, the new high altitude models are among the few plasma display products capable of high altitude performance.

The PlasmaWall PL-50XA and CinemaWall CW-50XA, have been specifically designed for use in high altitudes and mountainous regions that have traditionally been off-limits to plasma technology. With 50-inch widescreen viewing areas and depths of less than 4 inches thin, these plasmas offer the engineering benchmarks found in every Runco plasma display. Perfect for wall mounting or used with stylish tabletop stands, each model makes an ideal centerpiece for an elegant custom home theater.

Both the PL-50XA and CW-50XA boast a high definition resolution of 1365 x 786, and a comprehensive selection of inputs including a DVI digital input with HDCP, which enables a pure digital signal path for optimum image quality from a variety of sources. These plasmas employ Runco’s VirtualWide™ mode for converting 4:3 images to fill the 16:9 screen without losing any image integrity. The PL-50XA also takes advantage of Runco’s advanced Vivix™ video processing technology and the signature PFP™ controller. Simplified installation is attained with all inputs connecting to the rack-mountable controller and only one basic connection between the controller and display. The CW-50XA uses internal Runco video processing including 3:2 film detection circuitry to reproduce real cinema quality. Additionally, each plasma provides an IR and RS-232 interface for simple integration with home automation control systems.

Founded in 1987 and currently headquartered in Union City, California, Runco International is a market leader in state-of-the-art projection systems, flat-panel plasma monitors, video processors and other components for the consumer market. Runco’s innovations have won numerous awards and citations from the world press. Runco was the first company to introduce and market a line doubler with a multi-frequency projector in 1990 and also introduced the first multiple-aspect-ratio controller, the ARC-IV, to the Home Theater market. Recently, both of these features have become essential for the new digital high definition capable televisions.

CinemaWall, PlasmaWall, VirtualWide, Vivix PFP are registered trademarks of Runco International.