Aurora Systems Debuts Two New Image Processors for LCD Monitors and Projector Devices; ASI 320 and ASI 321 Deliver Superior Images with Advanced Control Features in a Low Cost Solution.

Business/Technology Editors

SAN JOSE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 26, 2000

Aurora Systems, Inc., an international leader in the design and marketing of high-performance LCD display controllers and microLCD chipsets, announced today the availability of two new integrated digital image processor chips for LCD monitors.

ASI 320 and ASI 321 provide a cost-effective, all-in-one solution for manufacturers of LCD monitors, LCD projectors and rear projection monitors, plasma TVs, and projection systems based on AMLCDs, DMDs, and LCOS.

An upgrade from Aurora Systems' debut image processors released last summer, the new ASI 320 and ASI 321 chips deliver the most advanced features available today for interfacing analog, digital and video input devices with high-resolution LCD devices.

"The ASI 320 and ASI 321 meet the highest standard of performance available on the market today," said Dr. Mou Hsin Yang, CEO and President of Aurora Systems. "These two image processors were recently demonstrated to customers in Japan, Taiwan and Korea, and the reaction was very positive. The ASI 320 and ASI 321 provide a very attractive solution to OEMs who want to deliver top-quality LCD imaging while reducing per unit costs."

Designed as a complete solution for all LCD monitor system requirements, the ASI 320 and ASI 321 integrate advanced image components, including a fully programmable up and down scalar, frame rate conversion, frame interlock engine, integrated on screen display, advanced video processor, DVI support and triple input ports (analog, digital, and video).

ASI 320 supports input resolutions up to SXGA and output resolutions to XGA, and ASI 321 supports up to SXGA, SXGA+ and UXGA resolutions. ASI 320/321 features support low-cost micro controllers, an integrated internal phase-locked loop (PLL), and fully automatic configuration in .35um CMOS technology. ASI 320/321 ships in a 256-pin PQFP package.

Aurora: Specialists in Monitor Controller Technology

The ASI 320 and ASI 321 are part of Aurora Systems' well-received Himalayas product line of all-in-one image processor solutions for LCD displays. The ASI 300 and ASI 301, developed and brought to market in record time last year, have established a benchmark of price-performance quality for the industry.

"Because Aurora has an international, highly-skilled engineering team that continues to develop advanced technologies, we are able to provide our customers with an unparalleled level of expertise in monitor controllers," Dr. Mou said. "Aurora is at the forefront of the movement to bring LCD display units down in cost, into the realm of widespread affordability."

ASI 320 and ASI 321 are currently being sampled and will be ready for mass production in 2Q'00. For information about pricing and availability of the ASI 320 and ASI 321 image processors, contact Norman Chan, Senior Director of Worldwide Sales, at [phone].

Aurora Systems will demonstrate their products at SID 2000 in Booth 531.

About Aurora Systems

Since its founding in 1997 by a team of experienced engineering and business professionals, Aurora has achieved recognition as a leader in providing price-performance quality LCD display controllers. In 1999 Aurora added to their product line with ASI 2000, a reflective microLCD line of digital imagers for projection applications, and a proprietary optical engine reference design. More than 24 patents have been granted or are pending approval.

Aurora's mission is to develop and bring new products to the LCD display market within a rapid time frame, enabling the industry to lower the price point of LCDs until they are affordable by every home and business.