Faroudja Unveils The Ultimate Digital Video Processor/Scaler.

Business & Technology Editors

CES 2000

LAS VEGAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 7, 2000

Leading-Edge DVP5000 is the First Video Processor on the Market That

Automatically Upconverts HDTV Signals to 1080p Resolution

Faroudja, Inc. (Nasdaq:FDJA), the Silicon Valley firm widely considered a leader in video-enhancing technologies for professional and home environments, is proud to introduce its new flagship DVP5000 Digital Video Processor/Scaler at the 2000 International Consumer Electronics Show, beginning today in Las Vegas.

This extraordinary processor is the first to automatically upconvert 1080i (interlaced) high-definition signals to 1080p (progressive) resolution, improving on the best that HDTV currently offers by removing the interlace stairstepping and motion artifacts found in the 1080i signal. In addition, it automatically upconverts 480p signals to 960p, while 720p signals pass through the device unaltered. All of this processing is automatic and completely transparent to viewers, who can simply surf the DTV channels, regardless of the formats used by different broadcasters, just as they would on a conventional TV. Also, standard 480i sources can be upconverted to 1080p, creating a startlingly film-like image from any source.

Obviously, displaying a 1080p image requires a sophisticated display device.

The DVP5000 optimizes the performance of high-end 9-inch and 12-inch CRT projectors as well as fixed-panel displays (LCD, DLP, D-ILA, plasma, etc.) with resolutions of 1280 x 1024 and above. These fixed-panel displays require a progressive input, which the DVP5000 delivers with aplomb, ensuring the highest possible picture quality from these devices.

As with the rest of the company's fine video processor/scalers, the DVP5000 deinterlaces incoming video signals and eliminates any visible artifacts as only Faroudja technology can. This technology now includes a new motion algorithm called Directional Correlation Deinterlacing(a) (DCDi), which eliminates motion artifacts from video-originated material. Combined with Faroudja's patented 3/2 pull-down detection for film-originated material, this results in unrivaled performance. Another important new technology found in the DVP5000 is the unique Scan-Lock Bandwidth Expansion technology, which is optimized for each output scan rate, producing superb edge detail without harsh ringing artifacts.

The DVP5000 is also a full-featured scaler that provides complete aspect-ratio control for anamorphic, letterbox, and 4:3 signals, which means users only need to set up one memory in the display device. In addition, the DVP5000 can convert standard NTSC signals (15.75kHz) to any computer rate up to SXGA resolution as well as HDTV rates of 1080i, 720p, and 1080p.

Among the extensive complement of rear-panel connections are a special HDTV input and 480p component inputs to accommodate the new progressive DVD players. Other inputs include standard component, S-video, and composite. RGB and component outputs maximize flexibility, and the unit can be controlled with IR remote commands or from a computer via the RS-232 serial port.

The DVP5000 will be available late in the first quarter of 2000 and orders will be accepted at CES. A program will be available to owners of the DVP3000 Processor/Scaler who wish to upgrade to a DVP5000.

Details will be announced soon. Faroudja's video processors and other outstanding products can be seen in Booth 8409 in the Las Vegas Hilton during CES.

Faroudja, Inc. (Nasdaq:FDJA) is a world leader in high-performance video processing technologies for markets requiring superior image quality solutions. The Company provides innovative products for the HDTV broadcast, home theater, industrial, digital television and PC/TV convergence markets. Faroudja's technologies are protected by more than 60 patents. Faroudja has received numerous awards, including an Emmy award for Engineering Development and a Lifetime Achievement Emmy presented in June, 1998 to its founder, Yves Faroudja.

Except for historical information contained herein, this press release contains forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties, including the timely development and acceptance of new products, product availability from suppliers, the impact of competitive products and pricing, changing TV standards and other risks set forth under the caption "Factors Affecting Future Operating Results" in Faroudja's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1998, in its quarterly reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, June 30 and September 30, 1999, and other filings with the SEC.