Philips explains 1080p

Regular HDTVUK readers will know of interesting little debate that’s been going on about the merits and availability of the top-end HD format 1080p. Recently Philips released a pair of LCD sets which it claimed were the among the first flat screen models in the world that could replay signals in the format. 1080p combines the highest HD resolution at the moment with progressive scan that ensures a steadier image and counters some of that flat screen flare that appears when the sets deal with fast moving objects. Although no broadcaster has committed to using the format it could potentially be used in Blu-ray and HD DVD as well as by broadcasters delivering high definition signals via the web.

Anyhow it turns out that the sets are not capable of inputting or processing a 1080P signal, but the electronics (EPLD) driving the panels convert the input signal to progressive scan and drive the actual display progressively at 1920 x 1080P.

Philips response in full is on the turn

'Further to answer the question on the Philips 42PF9830 and 37PF9830 and 1080P, we need to give you some background. Firstly the panels in the sets are indeed driven at 1080P – by that we mean they have a native resolution of 1920 by 1080 pixels and that the information is written to the display progressively. It is true that these sets are not capable of inputting or processing a 1080P signal, but then neither can the sets from the other manufacturers currently offering 1080P panels in Europe – however, the electronics (EPLD) driving the panel convert input signal to progressive and drive the actual display progressively at 1920 x 1080P.

To our understanding, no one in the European broadcast or movie world is currently producing material in the 1080P format, although some 1080P material is available in Japan, no one has announced any intentions to broadcast this material in Europe or the U.S.

In addition, the ability to process and display a 1080P signal would have a major impact on the cost and complexity of the architecture of the TV leading to a significant increase in the cost of the set – and as there’s no 1080P material available in Europe and no mass market demand, it's simply not commercially viable.'

Powermat: Revolutionary Gadget Charging

Comments

The comments to this entry are closed.