3-Jan-00

Faroudja Unveils The Ultimate Digital Video Processor/Scaler

Leading-Edge DVP5000 Is The First Video Processor On The Market That Automatically Upconverts HDTV Signals To 1080p Resolution

Faroudja, Inc. (Nasdaq: FDJA), the Silicon Valley firm widely considered a leader in video-enhancing technologies for professional and home environments, will introduce its new flagship DVP5000 Digital Video Processor/Scaler at the 2000 International Consumer Electronics Show, beginning Thursday, January 6 in Las Vegas. This extraordinary processor is the first 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 unaltered. All of this processing is automatic and completely transparent to viewers, who can simply surf the DTV channels, regardless of the formats used by different broadcasters, just as they would on a conventional TV. Also, standard 480i sources can be upconverted to 1080p, creating a startlingly film-like image from any source. Obviously, displaying a 1080p image requires a sophisticated display device. The DVP5000 optimizes the performance of high-end 9-inch and 12-inch CRT projectors as well as fixed-panel displays (LCD, DLP, D-ILA, plasma, etc.) with resolutions of 1280 x 1024 and above. These fixed-panel displays require a progressive input, which the DVP5000 delivers with aplomb, ensuring the highest possible picture quality from these devices. As with the rest of the companyís fine video processor/scalers, the DVP5000 deinterlaces incoming video signals and eliminates any visible artifacts as only Faroudja technology can. This technology now includes a new motion 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, this results in unrivaled performance. Another important new technology found in the DVP5000 is the unique Scan-Lock 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 (1.33:1) signals, which means users only need to set up one memory in the display device. In addition, 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. Among the extensive complement of rear-panel connections are 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 IR remote commands or from a computer via the RS-232 serial port. The DVP5000 will be available late in the first quarter of 2000 at a retail price under $30,000, and orders will be accepted at CES. A program will be available to owners of the DVP3000 Processor/Scaler who wish to upgrade to a DVP5000. Details will be announced soon. Faroudjaís video processors and other outstanding products can be seen in Booth 8409 in the Las Vegas Hilton during CES. About Faroudja Faroudja, Inc. (Nasdaq: FDJA) 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 theatre, industrial, digital television and PC/TV convergence markets. Faroudja's technologies are protected by more than 60 patents. Faroudja has received numerous awards, including an Emmy award for Engineering Development and a Lifetime Achievement Emmy presented in June, 1998 to its founder, Yves Faroudja.

For more information, contact Tom Harvey, Vice President Sales and Marketing at 408 735 1492.