15-Jun-99

Faroudja Introduces Powerful New DVP3000 And DVP3000U Video Processor/Scalers Versatile Digital Scalers Use Technology And Features To Improve Performance, Flexibility And Ease Of Use

Faroudja, Inc. (Nasdaq: FDJA), the Silicon Valley firm widely considered a leader in video-enhancing technologies for professional and home environments, introduced two powerful new processors, the DVP3000 and DVP3000U Digital Video Processor/Scalers, at the INFOCOMM International Exhibition 1999 last week in Orlando, Florida. In addition to the DVP3000 and DVP3000U, the company is also showcased the DVP2200 Digital Video Processor/Scaler, introduced last month. Faroudja's family of new digital video processors incorporates numerous new refinements designed to optimize CRT projectors as well as the growing market of other projector technologies, including DLP, LCD and Plasma. These projectors are primarily designed for computer graphics and have poor video processing capabilities. Faroudja's processors can produce dramatic improvements when video sources are used. ""We are very excited about our new line of processor/scalers,"" said Pete Halenbeck, Faroudja's Product Manager. ""Their flexibility and performance mean they can optimize any projector, including DLP, LCD, CRT and Plasma based displays. Our new technologies - Scan-lockô Bandwidth Expansion and DCDiô motion logic - take our image processing capabilities to a new level that will continue Faroudja's position as the image quality leader."" DVP3000 And DVP3000U Digital Video Processors Both models come packed with capabilities and features. The DVP3000 is designed for NTSC sources and the DVP3000U for both PAL and NTSC. Both units offer scan rate scaling to computer rates of VGA, SVGA, XGA and SXGA, plus DTV/HDTV video rates of 720p, 1080i, 960p (quadrupling) and even 1080p. This means the output can match the native resolution of fixed-panel projectors or maximize the resolution of a CRT projector. The progressive output from future DVD players can also be connected to the units and upconverted to any higher scan rate. Inputs for HDTV or computer signals are provided as a pass-through feature, with adjustments available for Contrast, Brightness and Color. Additional video inputs include composite, S-video and component connections. Full aspect ratio control is provided for anamorphic widescreen, letterbox and 4:3 (1.33:1) sources for additional flexibility and performance, which requires only one memory to be stored in the projector. Faroudja has designed a new motion algorithm called Directional Correlation Deinterlacingô (DCDi), which eliminates motion artifacts from video originated material, such as sporting events. This, combined with Faroudja's patented 3/2 pull-down detection for film-originated material, yields unparalleled deinterlacing technology, preventing the introduction of motion artifacts from any source. Another important new technology found in the processors is the unique Scan-Lock Bandwidth Expansion circuit. Faroudja's patented Bandwidth Expansion circuit is optimized for each output scan rate, producing superb edge detail without harsh ringing artifacts. Additional features include a two-line Time Base Corrector to help stabilize lower quality video sources, such as VHS tapes and video games; a l0-bit broadcast quality chroma decoder for improved color reproduction; and enhanced noise reduction control for more accurate adjustments. A new component YPrPb output allows the DVP3000 and DVP3000U to connect to the growing number of entry-level HDTV-ready sets in which an RGB output may not be compatible. New direct access infrared control software optimizes the models for use in theater or A/V installations employing IR-based control systems. RS232 serial computer control is also included. A non-volatile memory stores the settings of all user-adjustable functions, including those for contrast, brightness, color, tint, noise reduction and detail. Both models include Faroudja's patented Picture plusô Digital Video Processing, which transforms conventional signals to produce a film-like image. It incorporates the firm's proprietary Adaptive Comb-filter technology for superior color reproduction and reduced video artifacts, and a patented Bandwidth Expansion detail circuit that further boosts resolution without the undesirable side-effect of ""over-baked"" contrast. The DVP3000U is designed for European countries requiring PAL and NTSC compatibility. In addition to the scaling capability of the unit, it will also provide Frame Doubling, converting the 50H2 signal to 100H2. Progressive PAL DVD signals can also be frame doubled. DVP2200 Digital Video Processor The DVP2200 incorporates several new refinements designed to increase performance and versatility. Scan rate scaling to 480p and 600p allows the processor to properly match the display device. Internal Aspect Ratio Control has been added to allow any connected display system to be set to a single memory for maximum performance and minimal adjusting. Combining both scaling and aspect ratio control provides a very powerful tool for fine tuning the signal to optimum performance. Additional features include a two-line Time Base Corrector to help stabilize lower quality video sources such as VHS tapes and video games, a l0-bit broadcast quality chroma decoder for improved color reproduction, and enhanced noise reduction control for more accurate adjustments. In addition to NTSC signals, the DVP2200 handles PAL B, M and N decoding, expanding the number of countries in which it can operate. True 75-ohm video inputs are provided to accept component, S-video and composite, plus HDTV or computer signals. A component YPrPb output allows the DVP2200 to connect to the growing number of entry-level HDTV-ready sets in which an RGB output may not be compatible. New direct access infrared control software optimizes the DVP2200 for use in theater or A/V installations employing IR-based control systems. The model includes a smart remote that can control up to seven additional pieces of equipment. RS232 serial computer control is also included. Twenty-four custom presets are available for storing all picture settings, including those for contrast, brightness, color, tint, noise reduction, detail and aspect ratio. The DVP2200 also includes Faroudja's patented Picture Plus Digital Video Processing, which transforms conventional signals to produce a film-like image. It incorporates the firm's proprietary Adaptive Comb-filter technology for superior color reproduction and reduced video artifacts, a patented Bandwidth Expansion detail circuit that further boosts resolution without the undesirable side-effect of ""over-baked"" contrast, and patented film/video motion-tracking / motion-compensation circuitry for deinterlacing, that prevents motion artifacts. TheDVP3000 and DVP3000U will be available at the end of June at suggested retail prices of $19,995 and $21,995, respectively. The DVP2200 is available now at a suggested price of $7,995. 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 theater, 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 Faroudja, Inc., Tom Harvey, Vice President Sales And Marketing, 408 735 1492.