Faroudja Showcases Electronic Cinema Solution - Innovative Digital Video Processor/Scaler

E-Cinema Ready DVP5000 - Now Shipping - Is First Video Processor To Automatically Upconvert HD Signals To 1080p Resolution Feature-Packed DVP3000 Also Exhibited

12-Apr-00

Faroudja, Inc. (NASDAQ: FDJA), the Silicon Valley firm widely considered a leader in video-enhancing technologies for professional and home environments, introduced its new flagship DVP5000 Digital Video Processor/Scaler to the presentation and broadcast markets, and also showcased the feature-packed DVP3000 Digital Video Processor/Scaler at the annual convention of the National Association of Broadcasters in Las Vegas, Nevada. The extraordinary DVP5000 is the first video processor on the market to automatically upconvert 1080i (interlaced) high-definition signals to 1080p (progressive) resolution, improving on the best that HDTV currently offers by removing the interlace stairstepping and motion artifacts found in the 1080i signal. In addition, it automatically upconverts 480p signals to 960p, while 720p signals pass through the device. Standard 480i sources can be upconverted to 1080p, creating a startlingly film-like image from any source.The DVP5000ís powerful combination of multiformat conversion, color and detail enhancement, artifact reduction technology and aspect ratio control makes it ideally suited to the growing market for electronic cinema projectors and products. The stunning picture quality produced by the DVP5000 was voted the best image of Januaryís Winter Consumer Electronics Show, where it was launched.The DVP5000ís processing is automatic and completely transparent. HDTV viewers can simply surf the DTV channels, regardless of the formats used by different broadcasters, just as they would on a conventional TV.For standard 480i sources, the DVP5000, like Faroudjaís other fine video processor/scalers, deinterlaces incoming video signals and eliminates visible artifacts as only Faroudja technology can. The technology includes a new algorithm called Directional Correlation Deinterlacingô (DCDi), which eliminates motion artifacts from video-originated material. Combined with Faroudjaís patented 3/2 pull-down detection for film-originated material, the DVP5000 demonstrates unparalleled deinterlacing capability, preventing the introduction of motion artifacts from any source, and unrivaled performance.Another important feature in the DVP5000 is Faroudjaís unique Scan-Lockô Bandwidth Expansion technology, which is optimized for each output scan rate, producing superb edge detail without harsh ringing artifacts.The DVP5000 is also a full-featured scaler that provides complete aspect-ratio control for anamorphic, letterbox, and 4:3 sources for additional flexibility and performance, a refinement that requires only one memory to be stored in the projector. With scan-rate scaling, the DVP5000 can convert standard NTSC signals (15.75kHz) to any computer rate up to SXGA resolution as well as HDTV rates of 1080i, 720p, and 1080p. This means the DVP5000ís output can match the native resolution of fixed-panel projectors or maximize the resolution of a CRT projector. The processorís extensive complement of rear-panel connections includes a special HDTV input and 480p component inputs to accommodate the new progressive DVD players. Other inputs include standard component, S-video, and composite. RGB and component outputs maximize flexibility, and the unit can be controlled with the included multi-component IR remote or from a computer via the RS-232 serial port.A Y/Pr/Pb output option allows the DVP5000 to connect to the growing number of entry-level HDTV-ready sets in which an RGB output may not be compatible. New direct access infrared control software optimizes the DVP5000 for use in theater or A/V installations employing IR-based control systems. Faroudja's patented Picture Plusô Digital Video Processing transforms conventional signals to produce a film-like image. Additional features include two-line Time Base Correction to help stabilize lower quality video sources, such as VHS tapes and video games; a 10-bit broadcast quality chroma decoder for improved color reproduction; and enhanced noise reduction control for more accurate adjustments.The firm's proprietary Adaptive Comb Filter technology delivers superior color reproduction and reduced video artifacts. A non-volatile memory stores the settings of all user-adjustable functions, including those for contrast, brightness, color, tint, noise reduction and detail. The DVP3000 Digital Video Processor/Scaler comes packed with the same powerful combination of capabilities and features as the DVP5000, with one exception. Only the DVP5000 features automatic HDTV line doubling, from 1080i to 1080p.The DVP5000 and DVP3000 Digital Video Processor/Scalers are available now at suggested retail prices of $25,995 and $19,995, respectively. The DVP2200 Digital Video Processor/Scaler offers a lower cost option at $7,995. A program is available to upgrade any DVP3000 to a DVP5000. Faroudja, Inc. is a world leader in high-performance video processing technologies for markets requiring superior image quality solutions. The company provides innovative products for the HDTV broadcast, home theater, industrial, digital television and PC/TV convergence markets. Faroudja's technologies are protected by 60 patents. Faroudja has received numerous awards, including an EmmyÆ award for Engineering Development and a Lifetime Achievement Emmy presented to its founder, Yves Faroudja.