Panasonic DIRECTVÆ HDTV Receiver Offers Seamless Access To Multiple Sources

21-Aug-00

Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company (PCEC) has announced plans to market a DIRECTVÆ-enabled HDTV receiver. The new TU-HDS20 is a DTV-certified multiple-format tuner capable receiving all 18 ATSC digital television broadcast formats and current analog (NTSC) signals, plus DIRECTV and DIRECTV HD satellite transmissions. In addition to offering multiple input sources, the Panasonic HD Digital Receiver features the unique Advanced Program Guide (APG). Panasonic has been a technology leader throughout the development of digital television - from the cameras which capture the images, to HD VTRs used for recording and playback, to universal format converters and set-top DTV decoder boxes, to the DTV monitors that bring the digital images to consumersí homes.""The TU-HDS20 enables consumers to enjoy digital and analog television from multiple broadcast sources, including DIRECTV,"" says Bill Mannion, Vice President and General Manager of Panasonicís Television and Network Systems Division. ""This latest component in our extensive DTV product line represents our commitment to providing consumers with the greatest choice and convenience in order to enjoy the full extent of digital television entertainment."" The TU-HDS20 affords consumers several viewing choices, and provides a means of enjoying the high definition digital television experience even where local stations are not yet broadcasting DTV. In addition to being able to receive all analog and DTV terrestrial broadcasts in local service areas via a rooftop antenna, the receiver will provide access to a wide range of DIRECTV and digital DIRECTV HD satellite broadcast selections. The receiver will also accept and integrate must-carry NTSC local cable channels into the program guide.Also available from Panasonic is an optional, 18 x 24-inch oval DIRECTV PLUS antenna, designed to enable users to view programming from multiple DIRECTV satellites. In addition to using two low-noise blocks (LNBs), the antenna can be optionally upgraded to receive additional programming by adding a third LNB. The system will also incorporate a multi-switch with four outputs, enabling the consumer to connect up to four independent HD Digital Receivers in the home.A benefit offered by the TU-HDS20 is its Advanced Programming Guide (APG), which merges and displays program information from all the available sources. For example, a consumer who subscribes to DIRECTV and cable programming, or DIRECTV and terrestrial programming, will be able to view the channel programming in one guide.The TU-HDS20 includes Panasonicís Directorô Home Theater remote control, which operates hundreds of brands of both video and audio components. The remote has illuminated keys for use in darkened rooms. Users will also appreciate the Roller Guide Menu System, a concept shared with Panasonicís DTV-compatible televisions. Other features include auto programmable channel scan for NTSC/ATSC signals, rapid tuning between two channels, programmable on/off timers and V-chip parental guidance system.Outputs include component video, composite video and audio, RGB-HV, S-Video, DolbyÆ Digital audio (optical) and a modem. The TU-HDS20 is available as of July 2000, with a manufacturerís suggested retail price (MSRP) of $1099.00. The elliptical dish has an MSRP of $199.95.Panasonic consumer digital television products are marketed in the United States by Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company (PCEC), a division of Matsushita Electric Corporation of America (MECA). MECA is the principal North American subsidiary of Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd., (NYSE/PCX: MC) of Japan, one of the worldís largest producers of electronic and electric products for consumer, business and industrial use. All prices are in U.S. dollars. Consumers seeking more information on the companyís products can phone Panasonicís Customer Call Center at 800 211 PANA or access Panasonicís home page at www.panasonic.com.

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