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World's 1st High-Definition Network LCD TVs With Windows Media Connect Technology Big Hit at CES

Posted on: Thursday, 12 January 2006, 09:00 CST

Consumer electronics and home theater equipment supplier ED Digital has unveiled its flagship line of Digitrex(R) HD Network LCD TVs, the world's first high-definition (HD) network LCD TVs featuring Microsoft (Nasdaq:MSFT) Windows Media Connect capabilities. Three new Digitrex models were on display, for the first time, last week at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas.

Digitrex network LCD TVs deliver on the promise of a "connected home," bringing music, movies, home videos and digital pictures from any Windows XP-based PC on the home network together for viewing on one simple-to-use device for enjoyment in any room in the house. Native support for Windows Media Connect allows Digitrex TVs to retrieve content stored on a Windows XP-based PC, including subscription and download content available from PlaysForSure-verified music and video services.

Kick Back, Relax & Enjoy Digital Content on the Living Room TV, Hassle-Free

With wireless 802.11 b/g capability built-in, just a few simple clicks of the included TV remote control allows users sitting in the living room to access and view content from their Windows XP-based PC(s), located in any room. Users can even stream high-definition content that they've downloaded from popular movie sites, such as CinemaNow.

Digitrex network TVs feature a built-in mini-computer running Microsoft Windows Media Connect software. Together with Microsoft Windows Media Connect capabilities, users are assured their digital content, including content from PlaysForSure services, will play back, seamlessly, every time. The TV display is easily controlled through a user-friendly interface, embedded into the TV and connected to core Windows Media Connect capabilities. Graphical icons and on-screen drop-down menus make navigation simple.

"ED Digital is breaking the mold of the traditional TV experience by providing network capabilities in their new line of LCD TVs," Chad Hodge, group product manager of Windows Digital Media, Microsoft Corp., said. "Through support of Windows Media Connect, the Digitrex line of TVs will allow consumers to enjoy all the great digital content on their Windows XP PCs, including content offered through PlaysForSure subscription and download stores."

Loaded with High-Performance Components, Technology for Top Picture Quality

Digitrex network LCD TVs feature high-definition flat-panel displays with resolution of 1366x768 and contrast ratios in excess of 800:1. An extremely wide viewing angle allows even people sitting at more than 80 degrees off-axis to enjoy the action on the screen.

A 6-speaker, 10-watt RMS audio system with Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound completes the overall entertainment experience.

Digitrex network TVs equipped with Windows Media Connect technology are compatible with Windows XP-based PCs, including PCs running Windows XP Media Center Edition (MCE).

"With just a single product to buy and all the assurances of compatibility through integration of Microsoft's technology right into our product, Digitrex HD Network LCD TVs overcome the barriers and concerns that have traditionally kept consumers from taking the plunge to set up a connected home," Steve Jean, vice president, marketing and product development, ED Digital, said. "It's never been easier for consumers to enjoy all the music files, digital pictures and videos they've stored over time, and share them with family and friends, while relaxing in the comfort and convenience of their living or family entertainment room."

Pricing & Availability

32- and 40-inch Digitrex Network LCD TV models will be available by the end of Q1 at MSRPs of $1,999 and $3,499, respectively. A 46-inch unit will be available in Q2; MSRP to be determined.

About ED Digital:

ED Digital is a leading supplier of consumer electronics and home theater products that allow people to enjoy state-of-the-art entertainment systems and finally realize the promise of the "connected home." The company's broad-based product line is sold under the Digitrex brand and includes LCD TVs, rack and portable DVD players, personal media players, set-top boxes, and the world's first HD Network LCD TVs with Microsoft Windows Media Connect technology.

Looking to the future, the company plans to add products and enter new strategic alliances that will continuously enhance the connected home experience for consumers. Digitrex products are available in the United States and throughout Europe, Australia and Asia. For more information, please visit http://www.digitrexusa.com.

The names of actual companies and products mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.

Source: Business Wire

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