Dlp Tv

Thomson's RCA division today announced an ultra-thin DLP rear projection HDTV. The Profiles line will ship in 50-inch diagonal and 61-inch diagonal sizes in 2004, with a 70-inch diagonal unit being previewed for 2005. The DLP engine, developed by projector manufacturer InFocus of Wilsonville, OR, enables the Scenium Profiles HDTVs to be just 6.85 inches thin. Weighing less than 130 lbs., RCA suggests that these rear projection TVs are thin and light enough to be wall-mounted.

The new Profiles TVs incorporate an integrated, digital cable-ready high-definition tuner which supports the new CableCard format for content protection. Similar to the smart cards used in satellite TV systems, the CableCard enables secure display of HD content. The new Thomson TVs will also incorporate HDMI connectors, which will enable fully digital connections to outboard devices, such as HDMI-equipped DVD players. Additional digital links include two 1394a (FireWire) ports. Profiles will also support the usual array of analog inputs, including S-Video and component video connections. Also included will be an Ethernet port for connecting to a home network or the Internet.

The Infocus-designed engine uses Texas Instruments' latest "Mustang" HD-2 chip, with a native resolution of 1280x720. The Mustang chip is supposed to offer better contrast and deeper black levels than past light engines.

Initial pricing is pretty stiff, though, with the 50-inch model debuting at $8,999 while the 61-inch version weighs in at $9,999. Those prices rival HD-capable plasma displays. It will be interesting to see how these high-priced rear projection units are received in the market, but the technology is certainly impressive. Initial shipments will likely occur by summer.

For more, check out PCMag.com's 2004 CES Special Report

Copyright © 2004 Ziff Davis Media Inc. All Rights Reserved. Originally appearing in PC Magazine.

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