Panasonic expects global demand for Plasma Display Screens to cross 2.3 million in 2004

The new 50-inch TH-50PHD6 and 42-inch TH-42PWD6 feature Panasonic's Real MACH System that combines a plasma display panel and a panel driver, that are integrated to provide levels of gradation, contrast, and sharpness that optimally suit the way the human eye perceives images. Both panel and driver incorporate a wealth of Panasonic's advanced picture-enhancing technologies; and when combined, produce exceptionally high-quality images with remarkable depth.

"We expect the global demand for Plasma Display Screens to cross the 2.3 million mark in 2004, with demand in the Middle East and Africa (except Turkey) region touching 53,000 sets. Our new models, the 50-inch TH-50PHD6 and 42-inch TH-42PWD6 can be used to display information, advertisements, to make presentations and even in security systems, extending their application to industries like hotels, hospitals, banks, educational institutions, broadcast media, amusement centres, malls and small retail outlets and public facilities", said Hitoshi Shigetomi, Manager, System Sales Dept., Panasonic Marketing Middle East FZE.

"The growing popularity of high-quality digital image sources, such as DVD's, PCs or even via network in the Middle East has raised consumer expectations for exceptional viewing performance with the unrestricted layout advantages of a flat panel display. The TH-50PHD6 and TH-42PWD6, are fitted with Panasonic's original Mach Panel and Unique Quality enhancing system that render the industry's highest picture quality, giving them the complete feature for a business solution as required to meet the industry demand. The models are also equipped with Super Real Gamma System that enhances colour gradation even in dark scenes, while the Quasi 100-Hz System minimises flickering and provides easy-on-the-eyes images, lending itself to the growing advantages of digital media devices", added Shigetomi.

The screens are fitted with two other advanced Real MACH system technologies, the MACH Enhancer, for contour-emphasis and Deep Black Filter which contribute to high-contrast and more lifelike images. The Deep Black Filter is incorporated on the front protective glass of the MACH Panel suppressing light transmittance and slashing the amount of external light reflected. This helps the MACH Panel achieve the industry's highest level of contrast when viewed in bright surroundings.

The MACH Panel also uses an asymmetrical cell structure in which the pitch of the red, green and blue cells varies. By improving the light-emitting balance of the three primary colours, this helps deliver extremely pure whites while maintaining superior brightness.

Another convenient feature of the plasma display screens is Multi-Window function that makes it possible to display images from two different sources at the same time. The viewer can select either Picture-and-Picture mode, which shows the two images on separate halves of the screen, Picture-in-Picture mode, or Picture-out-Picture mode. The screens have an energy saving function, making them ideal for business use. The screens are also fitted with three multi-function slots that accept a variety of optional terminal boards for a wide range of input sources, in addition to the fixed input interface.

Panasonic's consumer range of Plasma TV models, the 42-inch TH-42PA20 and 37-inch TH-37PA20 feature a 4000:1 picture contrast ratio and Quasi 100Hz that dramatically reduces flickering. Only 99-mm deep, the television models feature a built-in tuner and speakers making them the world's slimmest plasma TVs.

Aesthetically made in an elegant Aero Silhouette Design, the gently curved rear panel and flat front panel add balance to the design and accentuate the television's sleek appearance.

Panasonic will be participating in Dubai Gitex 2003, along with its UAE sole distributor Panatech Engineering and Oman National Electronics, part of the Al Futtaim Group