Thomson Multimedia Expands Offerings To Include Home Networking And Advanced Universal Accessories

8-Jan-01

Determined to expand its leadership position in the profitable accessories category, Thomson Multimedia (NYSE: TMS) will increase its presence in several categories in 2001 and offer its most extensive product line to date. While continuing to market a wide range of universal accessories products such as television antennas and remote control units, Thomson will also launch new home networking products and computer peripherals.""Developing products that transmit wireless data and multiple computer compatibility are key focal points for our business in 2001,"" said Jack Nick, Vice President, Accessories and Components Business. ""Thomson will rely on the strength of the RCAÆ brand to make a big splash in the emerging home networking category. We will give consumers a selection of product solutions designed to meet their home/SOHO computing needs.""Already available is the WMJ900 wireless modem, Thomsonís first product designed to achieve true portability for the multiple PC owner. The colorful and uniquely designed WMJ900 consists of two transceiver units, a base and an extension, and provides Internet access from anywhere in the home. ""Like the wireless modem, RCA home networking products will be focused on providing portability, convenience and speed to consumers,"" Nick said. ""In addition, Thomson will expand its line of RCA digital and USB cables, allowing consumers to perform high-speed data transfers, and make the installation of additional computer peripherals easy.""Thomson continues to lead the industry in market share of universal remote controls, and will introduce several new models, ranging from advanced learning remotes to those with unique designs. Thomson introduced its first ""learning"" remote control in 2000, targeted toward consumers with a variety of home theatre equipment.  The RCA RCU810 ""learning remote"" operates eight devices, and includes an LCD display and ""macro"" keys that can be programmed to execute a series of keystrokes with the touch of one button. For example, the user can ""teach"" the remote to turn on several home theatre components with the touch of a button.Thomson will expand its offerings in the ""learning"" remote arena in 2001, by incorporating the feature into its new Platinum Series of remotes. A four and an eight-device universal remote control are planned, designed with a high-impact platinum finish, preprogrammed with universal remote control codes and featuring four dedicated learning keys.""We expect the universal remote control category to continue to be a source of strength for the RCA brand,"" Nick said. ""As additional consumers discover digital products, we have the challenge of designing new devices that incorporate advanced features while still being remarkably easy to use."" For more information about Thomson Multimedia, visit www.thomson-multimedia.com. 

Read More:
http://www.thomson-multimedia.com