Planar Expands StereoMirror(TM) Display Line to Offer Advanced Features for Geospatial, Visualization, Simulation and Medical Professionals.

BEAVERTON, Ore. -- New 20- and 23-Inch 3D Stereoscopic LCD Monitors Deliver Highest Quality Stereo Image Available in Desktop Displays

Planar Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ: PLNR), a worldwide leader in flat panel display systems, today announced the latest advancements in 3D stereoscopic LCD displays with the availability of its StereoMirror 20- and 23-inch wide monitors. Planar's SD2020 and SD2320W deliver enhanced stereo image quality by offering greater resolution and enlarged screen-space, beneficial for photogrammetry, image exploitation, complex visualization, 3D simulation and radiographic investigation.

In a tandem response to market demand and Planar's ongoing strategic effort for leadership and growth in digital imaging, the recently announced SD1710 has been evolved into two larger formats to continue the SD line's offering of superior image quality. The new 20- and 23-inch monitors will continue to offer industry-leading flicker-free crisp images and optimal user-comfort for geoscientists, cartographers, engineers, image analysts and environmental planners. The larger formats, intense depth perception and increased stereo contrast will allow users to more accurately extract 3D data and differentiate images to map terrain, identify boundaries, plan missions and investigate habitats.

Last year, Planar partnered with companies such as BAE Systems, Boeing, DAT/EM Systems International and Matrox to demonstrate and validate this advanced 3D stereoscopic monitor design that meets the needs of customers who require an optimum way to visualize complex images and data. BAE customers have purchased Planar's stereo monitors for such applications as disaster relief support, cartography, targeting and analyzing flight paths around airports.

"Planar's StereoMirror monitors enable our customers to obtain clear, bright, high-quality stereo images, which are crucial to the successful execution of their jobs," said Dr. A. Stewart Walker, director of marketing for BAE Systems' Geospatial eXploitation Products business. Users of BAE Systems' SOCET SET(R) geospatial analysis software employ Planar's stereo monitor and aerial or satellite imagery for extracting 3D data of buildings, bridges, mountains or valleys. "By offering the new 20-inch and 23-inch monitors, Planar has increased size and resolution without compromising the stereo image quality or viewing comfort that enable photogrammetrists to work an eight-hour shift on a stereo monitor."

In addition to geospatial applications, Planar's entire SD series offers improved image sensitivity and precision for medical professionals. Mammography, for example, is considered one of the most difficult radiographic exams to interpret and confirm in terms of detection and diagnosis. The complexity of breast x-ray images makes it difficult to discern abnormal features because of over- and underlying normal tissue. Radiologists challenged with discerning intricate x-rays can now improve the early detection of breast cancer by using 3D stereoscopic analysis, which enables the radiologist to view the breast tissue in depth.

"We are currently conducting a study at Emory University in Atlanta, comparing stereo digital mammography to conventionally used non-stereo digital mammography, to determine whether stereo mammography would provide more accurate detection of abnormal lesions and, thus, reduce unnecessary recall of patients. Initial results using Planar's prototype SD2250 indicate a significant reduction in false positives when stereoscopic viewing is used," said Dr. David Getty of BBN Technologies of Cambridge, Massachusetts USA.

Furthermore, Planar recognizes the growing demand for sophisticated stereo 3D medical imaging and has a strategic dedication to being the best company to serve this market. "Demand for 3D LCD monitors able to manipulate images in real-time is growing, particularly in medical, photogrammetry, geospatial intelligence and image exploitation applications," said Rhoda Alexander, director of monitor research at iSuppli. "The combination of flicker-free imaging and high-resolution performance makes LCD solutions ideal for 3D applications. The smaller form factor and lighter weight of LCD displays provide an added bonus in applications such as oil and gas exploration, which require frequent shifts in the display location."

Much like the SD1710, both the SD2020 and SD2320W allow users to view stereo images independent of position, using comfortable, lightweight polarized glasses that are similar to sunglasses. Because both eyes see a continuous, full resolution and flicker-free image, the monitor can be used for an entire workshift without discomfort in normal office lighting. Alternatively, CRT stereoscopic displays can cause eye strain, headaches, or even nausea from alternately blinking right and left images. Autostereo displays, which do not require a user to wear glasses, restrict users, forcing them to position their head in a specific "sweet spot" with no room for movement over extended periods of time while delivering full resolution to each eye.

The SD series uses StereoMirror(TM) technology to provide the highest quality stereoscopic image available in a larger desktop monitor and is composed of two 20- or 23-inch LCD monitors in an up/down configuration separated at a 110-degree angle. A semitransparent mirror is positioned at a bisecting angle between the two monitors that, when combined with polarizing glasses, generates the stereo separation. This unique beam-splitter approach creates a stereoscopic 3D monitor that retains the full resolution, response time and color saturation of the individual monitors, while also offering a dual use as a standard 2D monitor with the flip of a switch or by simply lifting the mirror. The SD series supports a broad platform of OpenGL, DirectX and Windows based applications utilizing dual-DVI output graphics cards right off the shelf.

Beyond the applications for stereo 3D imaging today, Planar is exploring emerging imaging applications, including molecular modeling, CAD/architecture and PC computer gaming.

The SD series includes monitor sizes ranging from 17- to 23-inch, which are available for immediate delivery. All StereoMirror(TM) monitors and accessories are now available through Planar and direct resellers and come with a one year warranty. Extended and advance replacement warranties are available. For additional information please visit www.planar.com/stereomirror.

About Planar

Planar Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ: PLNR) is a leading provider of flat panel display hardware and software solutions for demanding medical, industrial and commercial applications. Hospitals, shopping centers, banks and businesses of all sizes use Planar display technology to help connect people, information and ideas. Founded in 1983, Planar is headquartered in Oregon, USA, with offices, manufacturing partners and customers worldwide. For more information, visit www.planar.com.