BIOS: Technology Means Business

Sharp Electronics has announced the addition of three new models to its P-Series range of LCD TVs, which have been specifically optimised for the UK PAL broadcast signal.

Following in the footsteps of the very special Aquos P50 Series, and incorporating Sharp’s unique PAL Perfect Picture (PPP) technology, the Aquos LC-26P70E, LC-32P70E and LC-37P70E (26-, 32- and 37-inch respectively) should be able to reproduce the UK PAL broadcast signal perfectly, with their 960x540 panel resolution.

Key features of the screens include built-in Freeview Digital Terrestrial Tuner (DVB-T), PPP (PAL Perfect Picture) technology, displays 1080i and 720p HD signals (HD compatible), Advanced Super View and Black TFT LCD panel, HDMI interface, DCE (Dynamic Contrast Enhancement), Clear Voice Function, Auto Volume Control, and PC input (analogue RGB).

In addition to their suitability for the PAL signal, the P70 Series models are future-proofed for forthcoming High Definition (HDTV) broadcasts, featuring an HDMI interface with HDCP copy protection. HD performance should also be impressive, with a straightforward half or three quarter downscale conversion from 1080i or 720p signal to 540 lines. Each model also incorporates an integral DVB-T tuner for receiving Freeview channels.

The Aquos LC-26P70E, LC-32P70E and LC-37P70E offer inputs for connection to a wide variety of sources: two SCART, AV/S-Video In, Audio Out, HDMI In, CI Slot (Top Up TV) and PC In. An adapter cable for a VGA component input is also included. Moreover, they can be controlled from a PC via the RS-232C interface or used as a monitor via the analogue PC input (RGB analogue). Two 10-Watt speakers are also integrated into the design.

The P70 Series panels incorporate Sharp’s unique Advanced Super View (ASV) technology to enhance picture quality further, with brightness at 450cd/m2. A viewing angle of 170 degrees, both horizontally and vertically, should help to ensure a perfect picture on screen - wherever the viewer is sitting. In addition, Advanced Optical Picture Control (OPC) automatically adjusts the brightness of the picture to take account of the ambient light in the room.

Sharp’s new models are also kinder to the environment, thanks to their low energy usage. The Aquos LC-26P70E, LC-32P70E and LC-37P70E have been awarded the Energy Saving Trust’s ‘energy saving recommended endorsement’ for their low energy consumption and contribution to reducing carbon dioxide emissions (CO2). Sharp is one of the first LCD TV manufacturers to receive this certification in the UK.

Finally, viewers are assured great sound thanks to and surround sound. Functions such as Clear Voice and Auto Volume Control (AVC) help to refine the sound quality, so that voices sound even clearer and any increase in volume, for example during advertisements, is reduced to the level of the programme being watched.
The Sharp Aquos P70 Series will be available in the UK from electrical retailers from April 2006.

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