Sony debuts high-end SXRD device for LCD projectors

Taipei, Feb. 25, 2003 (CENS)--Sony of Japan recently announced the development of silicon X-tal reflective display (SXRD), devices for use in a liquid crystal display (LCD) projectors.

The new device delivers a panel contrast ratio of over 3,000:1 and full HDTV (1,920 x 1,080) resolution by using a silicon backplane.

Among liquid crystal on silicon (LCOS) displays available today, Sony's device has the highest contrast resolution, and could become an alternative for Taiwan's high-end projector manufacturers. The features and capabilities of the SXRD technology make it ideal for use in front projectors and rear projection TVs of home theater dimensions, capable of delivering the high resolution and high-grade content that is becoming increasingly prevalent.

An official at Sony indicated that the move towards content of this nature is set to continue with the forthcoming launch of terrestrial digital broadcasting in the near future, and Sony aims to introduce front projectors and rear projection products incorporating this technology to the market this year.

In addition to Sony, two other Japanese companies--Hitachi and JVC--are also major suppliers of LCOS displays. Wu Chi-ting, an analyst at Taiwan's semi-official Institute for Information Industry (III), pointed out that Sony's new SXRD device is based on more sophisticated LCOS technology than LCOS products made in Taiwan. Taiwan Semiconductor Mfg. Co. and United Microelectronics Corp. are the two major producers of LCOS panels in Taiwan.

Taiwan-made projectors and TVs with LCOS display panels are mostly exported to mainland China at prices about half that of liquid crystal display (LCD) TVs and plasma TVs.

Wu said that the Taiwan market for LCOS displays is quite competitive. If Sony intends to tap the LCOS market here, he suggested the company should cooperate with local projector makers.