Panasonic Announces New Wide Screen 1-Chip DLP Based Projectors
For Viewing Of Movie Pre-Shows

LAS VEGAS, NV (March 14, 2006) – Here at ShoWest, Panasonic introduced the new PT-DW5000 and its selectable lens (without lens) version PT-DW5000L, two widescreen one-chip mid-to-large venue DLP™ projectors ideal for projection interstitial materials including movie trailers and commercials. The PT-DW5000 and PT-DW5000L will be available in June 2006.

With a high brightness of 4,500 lumens and a WXGA (1280 x 768) resolution, these compact projectors are highly suited for mid-to-large size venues including the confines of the movie theater booth. The benefits of long-life DLPTM, a Texas Instruments' technology, make these projectors ideal for demanding non-stop 24/7 applications.

The PT-DW5000 and PT-DW5000L are equipped with new Texas Instruments' high-contrast, one-chip DLPTM subsystem and Panasonic completely-sealed, dust-proof, liquid-cooled optics. New Panasonic-exclusive optical technologies deliver an impressive contrast ratio of over 1600:1 and high uniformity in color and brightness.

The PT-DW5000 and PT-DW5000L are equipped with high-speed digital signal processing with 16-bit color depth for wider dynamic range and more film-like images, dynamic sharpness control, and progressive cinema scan (3/2 pull down) capabilities that combine to produce rich, detailed blacks and to masterfully reproduce 24 frames-per-second film-based video.

The unit's lens-centered design provides flexibility in system design, which eliminates the need for any special considerations when planning their installations. The projectors incorporate Panasonic's BriteOptic™ multi-lamp system that delivers the reliability and power of two, new high-intensity 300W UHM lamps through a high-precision prism. The lamp auto-changer alternates lamp operation to permit extended 24/7 use, and allows operation to continue without interruption even if one lamp burns out.

Setup of the PT-DW5000 and DW5000L is easy with one-touch auto-setup, motorized vertical and manual horizontal lens shift and Digital Keystone Correction.

For exceptional connection flexibility, the projectors offer a full array of inputs, including DVI, two computer (RGB) and three video (component, composite and S-Video). In addition, the PT-DW5000s have a wired LAN connector, RS-232C and external remote terminals.

When connected to a wired LAN, a user can operate a PT-DW5000 or PT-DW5000L remotely, check their status using a web browser on a networked PC. The projectors can send e-mail messages to notify a user when the units' operating condition changes or a lamp needs replacing. The wired LAN connection drives down support costs and minimizes downtime.

Designed for quiet operation as low as 29dB (low power mode), the units are HDTV-ready, and can automatically synchronize to display 1080i, 720p, 480p and 480/576i video in 16:9 wide aspect ratio. The Direct Power Off function utilizes a built-in capacitor to keep the projectors' fan running to cool down the unit even when the power is turned off. The PT-DW5000/L offer a host of security features to prevent unauthorized use, including password protection, operation key lock function, Kensington lock and a security chain opening.

The PT-DW5000 series uses a bayonet-type lens system, so lenses can be attached and detached with one-touch ease. The units can project on screens from 50" to 600", and are less than 7 inches(178mm) high and weigh only 32 pounds(14.5kg). The projectors' top panel is removable, which makes it easy to change color or add a logo or graphic. Other standard benefits include: multiple terminals including DVI-D (HDCP compliant) selectable nine-language on-screen menu; easy lens and dust filter replacement.

For more information on Panasonic's projector line-up, visit www.panasonic.com/projectors.

About Panasonic Projector Systems
Panasonic Projector Systems Company is a prominent supplier of projectors and presentation systems in the United States. It is a unit of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American subsidiary of Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. (NYSE:MC) of Japan, and the hub of its U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations. For more information on Panasonic Projector Systems products, visit the company's Web site at www.panasonic.com/projectors.

* DLPTM is a trademark of Texas Instruments Incorporated