Monster And Tzero To Develop Advanced Wireless Video Products To Simplify Flat-Panel TV Installation

Monster, the world's leading manufacturer of high-end cables, accessories, and power conditioning products, and Tzero Technologies, the leader in ultra wideband (UWB) for video distribution, announced a strategic partnership to develop innovative solutions aimed at the rapidly expanding wireless HDTV market. Hitting retail shelves this fall, these products will dramatically simplify the installation of flat-panel TVs, connecting them wirelessly to virtually any audio/video component, including DVD players, set-top boxes, and digital video recorders. "HDTV prices are coming down, but hidden installation costs and hassles continue to shock consumers. With Tzero, we will deliver standards-based solutions that will make it much easier to have a professional-looking installation for flat-panel TVs anywhere in the home," said Noel Lee, The Head Monster. "Tzero's expertise in UWB technology combined with Monster's own ability to design and deliver complete consumer solutions makes this a winning combination to address this growing global market. We'll attack this market through our Monsterous dealer network of more than 20,000 store fronts in over 70 countries." As part of the collaboration, Tzero and Monster will jointly develop unique solutions for the consumer electronics market and "do-it-yourself" customer. The first jointly developed product will integrate a wall-mounting bracket, conditioned power, and Tzero's Wireless for HDMI˙ product into a single, consumer-installable solution. The rugged wall-mounting bracket will allow easy placement of flat-panel TVs of up to 60 inches anywhere in the home. And with integrated Wireless for HDMI, consumers will be able to wirelessly connect audio/video components to the display, eliminating long and unattractive cable runs, and minimizing the hassles associated with typical HDTV installation. As part of the strategic partnership, Tzero will provide Monster with the exclusive right to sell and integrate Tzero's ultra wideband products in mounting brackets, while Monster will use only Tzero components in all its wireless high-definition video products and accessories. Since these solutions utilize WiMedia industry-standard technology for wireless video, they will be interoperable with other WiMedia-compliant products including DVD players, set-top boxes, and HDTVs sold under a variety of brands. "Clearly, there is a growing need for products to help consumers simplify the HDTV installation process," said Mike Gulett, president and CEO of Tzero. "By teaming our technology expertise with Monster's innovative approach to advanced technology development and marketing, we will bring best-of-breed solutions to market that benefit from the strengths of both our companies."