Sharp Adds Portrait Mode Model to 65-Inch Professional High-Definition Liquid Crystal Display Lineup.

MAHWAH, N.J. -- Expanding on its recently upgraded line of professional LCD monitors, Sharp today introduced the PN-655RU, the first 65-inch LCD display specifically designed to operate in portrait mode. To ensure reliable operation and backlight life for use in portrait mode, Sharp optimized the internal cooling, air flow and backlight system. This model joins the current 65-inch PN-655U, which is designed for landscape mode applications. Also joining the 65-inch lineup is the PN-655RUP (portrait mode version of the PN-655UP, which incorporates an integrated protective acrylic overlay).

"There are many important portrait-mode applications for high-end, large screen displays in diverse market settings such as medical imaging, digital signage, design and flight information display," said John Becconsall, Director, Professional Display Products, Sharp Commercial Markets Sales and Solutions Group. "With the introduction of this monitor, Sharp's professional display line can now fulfill the traditional landscape as well as portrait application needs, and offers superior image quality and improved compatibility, for reliability in a wider range of commercial applications."

The robust 65-inch monitor has a full 1920 x 1080 two-megapixel high-definition (HD) resolution for accurate and precise image reproduction. With commercial design and components, the PN-655RU offers superior reliability for extended use applications, complementing Sharp's line of professional LCD video/data monitors.

To serve the discriminating image-quality needs of the commercial market better, the PN-655RU has a four-wavelength spectrum, cold-cathode fluorescent backlight that provides an enhanced color spectrum including deeper, more vibrant and vivid reds. Sharp's proprietary Advanced Super View (ASV) panel provides stellar picture quality for fast-moving video through its fast pixel response time of less than 6 ms.

Thanks to its long-life backlight and lower power consumption rate than comparable models, the PN-655RU monitor provides customers with a lower total cost of ownership.

Sharp's LCD monitors incorporate several proprietary technologies and features that ensure unparalleled image quality for a professional presentation of information, data and images. The line has anti-glare and low-reflection properties, enabling Sharp monitors to be placed in brighter areas where other screens might appear washed out. Higher contrast lets viewers discern details they might otherwise miss, particularly when viewing darker content. The 170-degree viewing angles help the monitors display a crisp picture that can be seen from virtually anywhere in a room. A Black TFT/Bright Pixel Elimination ensures that if a pixel fails, it is effectively invisible to the viewer.

The PN-655RU and PN-655RUP are supported with a three-year on-site parts and labor limited warranty, including three-year warranty on the backlight when used in portrait mode.

Pricing and Availability

* The PN-655RU will be available in January through Sharp authorized dealers and value-added resellers for a Manufacturer's Suggested List Price (MSLP) of $29,995

* The PN-655RUP will be available on special order through Sharp authorized dealers and value-added resellers for an MSLP of $32,995

* The PN-655U is available now for an MSLP of $22,995

* The PN-655UP is available now for an MSLP of $25,995

For more information, please contact Sharp Electronics Corporation, Professional Display Division, Sharp Plaza, Mahwah, N.J. 07430, or call 866-4-VISUAL (866-484-7825). For online product information, visit the Sharp Professional Display Division Web site at SharpLCD.com or e-mail: [e-mail].

Sharp Electronics Corporation is the U.S. subsidiary of Japan's Sharp Corporation, a worldwide developer of one-of-a-kind home entertainment products, appliances, networked multifunctional office solutions, solar energy solutions and mobile communication and information tools. Leading brands include AQUOS[R] Liquid Crystal Televisions, 1-Bit[TM] digital audio products, SharpVision[R] projection products, Insight[TM] Microwave Drawers, IMAGER[TM] digital multifunctional systems, and Notevision[R] multimedia projectors. For more information visit Sharp Electronics Corporation at www.sharpusa.com