Sony Builds On Superlite LCD Projector Success With New Compact Unit With XGA Resolution, 550 Ansi Lumens

ANAHEIM, Calif., June 15 - Sony Electronics is expanding its best-selling line of SuperLite(tm) three-panel LCD projectors with the introduction of the two new models, the VPL-CX1 and VPL-CS2.

These new units share the same most popular features of the "CS1" including a very compact design. With weights of only 6.4 pounds and small footprints (11" x 3 1/8" x 81/2"), the new ultra-portable projectors are Sony's smallest and lightest models. The SuperLite VPL-CS1 became the best-selling projector in the professional audio/video market after its first four months of sales, according to the February 2000 Reseller Tracking Service, a monthly service of 50 leading professional audio video dealers in North America published by Pacific Media Associates.

The SuperLite VPL-CX1 is the first Sony micro-portable projector to offer XGA (1024 x 768) resolution via 0.7" LCD panels, while the VPL-CS2 offers SVGA (800 x 600) resolution. The VPL-CS2 has high brightness output of 600 ANSI(a) lumens, and the VPL-CX1 delivers 550 ANSI lumens.

Both projectors feature Sony's 0.7-inch TFT three-panel LCD display technology, which has panels smaller than a quarter, enabling Sony to design a small, compact chassis.

The three-panel LCD design reproduces exceptional image quality with colors that are rich, flicker-free and sharply defined -- regardless of image brightness.

"The SuperLite VPL-CX1 and VPL-CS2 add to the growing family of lightweight, ultra-compact, three-panel LCD projectors that Sony makes available for today's road warrior," said Jonathan Holmes, manager for projector marketing, Sony Broadcast and Professional Company. "Small businesses, marketing and sales executives and schools are clearly responding to the improved color display and sharp image quality of Sony's three-panel LCD micro-portable projector technology, as well as Sony's competitive pricing. The VPL-CX1 and VPL-CS2 will round out our offerings to customers."

The VPL-CX1 and VPL-CS2 are equipped with a USB hub function, 4 times digital zoom capability, and the newly designed RM-PJM10 programmable remote control, enabling users to launch graphic presentations with the touch of a single button on the remote. The RM-PJM10 remote also allows the user to take advantage of on-screen menu controls.

Both projectors feature Projector Station(tm) version 2.0 software that enables users to control most projectors' functions, connect up to 127 projectors and control them from a single PC.

The projectors also come equipped with Auto-Pixel Alignment, a one-button feature that automatically matches pixel settings in the projector to pixel settings in the PC, minimizing image ghosting or artifacts.

Both of the units provide flexible set-up with a height adjuster and retractable carrying handle, as well as a Digital Keystone function. Both SuperLite models also have quiet operation due to low fan noise. In addition, the units deliver impressive stereo sound with built-in stereo speakers.

The SuperLite VPL-CX1 and VPL-CS2 LCD projectors will be available in October at an anticipated manufacturer's suggested list price of $4,200 and $3,299, respectively. For more information on Sony's full line of LCD projectors, visit the Internet at: www.sony.com/superlite.

(a) ANSI lumens is a measuring method for the American National Standards Institute. Since there is no uniform method of brightness, specifications will vary among manufacturers.

Sony Electronics Broadcast and Professional Company (BPC) provides advanced products and systems for a variety of professional and broadcast markets, including production, corporate, industrial, government, security, medical and education. BPC designs products and applications that will facilitate its customers' transition to digital technologies and enter the emerging broadband network era, while managing their current assets. Sony BPC products and services include those for broadcast acquisition, production, storage, data management, system integration, digital imaging, digital printing, large and small venue display and projection needs. Sony Electronics Inc. recorded annual sales exceeding $12 billion. For more information, visit www.sony.com/professional.

For information regarding the nearest Sony authorized dealer or service location, call 1-800-686-SONY. Press releases are available online at www.sony.com/news.

CONTACT:
Sony Electronics, Inc.
Scott Gardiner
201/930-7436
scott.gardiner@am.sony.com