CEA Introduces New Online Guide To Help Consumers In Buying CE Products

6-Nov-00

Digital cameras, DVD players, CD recorders and wireless phones are at the top of many wish lists this holiday season. To help shoppers make the right purchase, then figure out how to work a specific feature and add on the proper accessories, the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is offering an objective, comprehensive source of information - ""Switched On, The Complete Guide To Buying And Connecting Consumer Electronics."" Located at www.ce.org/switchedon, ""Switched On"" offers help in buying, connecting and maintaining the devices that make our lives more productive and more entertaining.""The incredible variety of new consumer electronics products has given shoppers more choices than ever,"" said Gary Shapiro, President and CEO of CEA. ""íSwitched Oní helps consumers sort those choices out in a logical, practical way."" ""Switched On"" tapped industry experts, audiophiles and technology gurus for its information, organizing the specifics by product category. Visit www.ce.org/switchedon, then choose from the product categories (below) to find out how to connect a TV and VCR, buy the right digital camera for your needs or get the best sound from your audio system. AudioCD (compact disc) recorders top the audio shopping list. Consumers recognize the value in being able to ""burn"" customized content onto CDs. Even more impressive is the attention gained by portable MP3 players. The audio category in ""Switched On"" covers loudspeakers, receivers/amplifiers, radio tuners, (CD) players, recording decks, turntables, headphones and karaoke.AutosoundThe latest autosound technologies - in-dash CD players and autosound amplifiers - help consumers get great sound for their cars. The growth of MP3 technology, multichannel music formats like DVD-Audio and Super Audio CD, and digital audio radio services also are increasing consumer interest. The autosound category in ""Switched On"" covers these technologies including amplifiers, head-units, speakers and CD players.ComputersConsumers still look to computers for convenience, entertainment, research and communication. The category in ""Switched On"" includes desktop and portable computers, monitors, printers, modems, speakers and other PC peripherals, Internet access, software, input devices and storage.Home TheatreHome theatre is the replication of the cinematic experience in the home. It combines audio and video products into one comprehensive system that places you in the middle of the action of a film, TV show, sporting event or concert. The category in ""Switched On"" includes loudspeakers, THXÆ, purchase considerations and connections. MobileTelematics products that combine navigation technology such as GPS (global positioning system) with real-time wireless communications services are gaining the attention of consumers concerned with safety and security. Meanwhile, DVD technology is invigorating mobile entertainment. The mobile category in ""Switched On"" covers automotive electronic systems, citizens band (CB) radio, radar, speed detectors, car security systems and car navigation systems. TelecomIn communications products, wireless phones continue their domination of the product line, topping consumers' wish lists. The telecom category in ""Switched On"" includes wireless phones, answering machines, pagers, Caller ID, and corded and cordless phones. VideoThe DVD player reigns supreme, claiming the number one spot on consumer electronics shopper wish lists, according to CEA research. CEA has forecast that 6.6 million DVD players will be sold during 2000. Offering the convenience of efficiently capturing and sharing experiences, digital cameras also have garnered attention, especially given their improved resolution. Consumer television equipment continues its refinements, including plasma (flat) displays. The video category in ""Switched On"" includes television, antennas, satellite TV, videocassette recorders (VCRs), camcorders, DVD, LaserDiscs and video games.Source: CEA

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http://www.ce.org/switchedon