NEWS: MSFT & CPQ Synchronize HDTV Position With Leading Broadcasters
[Time for FDJA to get into the act.]
biz.yahoo.com
Wednesday April 22, 1:55 pm Eastern Time
Company Press Release
SOURCE: Microsoft Corp.
Microsoft and Compaq Extend DTV Support to Include All 720 Progressive HDTV Formats
REDMOND, Wash., April 22 /PRNewswire/ -- Microsoft Corp. (Nasdaq: MSFT - news) and Compaq Computer Corp. (NYSE: CPQ - news) today announced they plan to add direct support for the 720 progressive scan formats at all frame rates (including 720/60P), based on both the positive momentum for progressive transmission formats and recent technology
advances.
In response to recent decisions by broadcasters, local television stations and the U.S. Department of Defense to adopt progressive scan formats for digital television transmissions, Microsoft and Compaq are extending their support for DTV transmission formats to include the Advanced Television Standards Committee (ATSC) 720/60P format. This format allows broadcasters to transmit high-definition video programming along with interactive services cost-effectively for consumers. This move helps align the companies' viewpoint with leading progressive scan broadcasters, including ABC and Fox.
''The computer industry continues to be interested in making digital television a reality for the consumer in the next few years,'' said Craig Mundie, senior vice president, consumer platforms division at Microsoft. ''Since progressive transmission formats help keep the cost of the receivers low and allow for interactive services and pogramming, we believe this step brings the PC and TV industries into alignment.''
Advances in technology highlighted at this year's National Association of Broadcasters Convention demonstrate the positive momentum for progressive scan equipment across all facets of broadcasting. This includes increased support for the PC technologies required for digital television. Based on these advances, consumers will likely be able to purchase PC add-in cards from third-party companies that support all 480 and 720 progressive formats as early as late 1998.
''We are extremely pleased with the growing momentum of progressive scan technology for the PC and set-top box products,'' said Bob Stearns, senior vice president, technology and corporate development at Compaq. ''As a result, progressive scan will provide a foundation for a range of products in a variety of form factors and price points.''
SOURCE: Microsoft Corp. |
