Audio Video News

Improvement wrought by Sony and other manufacturers is bringing flatscreen monitors into territory they weren't originally intended to serve. First developed for commercial signage and public information display, flatscreen monitors---especially the type known as plasma display panels (PDPs)---have seen huge advances in contrast ratio and reduction of motion artifacts, to such an extent that they can be seriously considered by even hard-to-please home theater fans.

On December 12, 2000, Sony Electronics introduced the PFM42B1, a "SuperSlim" monitor with flexible horizontal or vertical viewing. The 42-inch (diagonal) display is said to be ideal for "state-of-the-art home theater environments" as well as for "exhibit spaces, executive conference rooms . . . or television broadcast studios."

With its flexible operating panel, the SuperSlim monitor is "a bold new twist on image display," says Lisa Baldino, marketing manager of display systems for Sony Electronics Broadcast and Professional Company. "The SuperSlim monitor provides a spectacular, high-resolution picture in a slim, lightweight package design.'' The PFM42B1 features a 42-inch screen with a maximum resolution of 1024 x 1024 pixels, and a 160-degree viewing angle. Aspect ratio can be instantly changed from 4:3 to 16:9 for "legacy video" or high-definition images. An advanced scan converter can also "intelligently reproduce a wide range of digital video signals (including SDTV, and HDTV) and UXGA computer signals," according to the company's new product announcement.

The PFM42B1 is 3-1/4`` thick and weighing 65.5 pounds---ideal for situations in which space limitation prevent the use of front or rear projectors. Rotating brackets enable easy orientation in any environment, Baldino says. With full-function remote control, and 20-video memory capacity---allowing the display to be calibrated for near-identical images from many sources---SuperSlim flat panel monitors are available through authorized Sony dealers for a suggested list price of $7,999.