Micronas introduces truD®HD for HDTV and eliminates motion blur for Flat Panel TVs with 120 images per second (0607)
Freiburg, Germany – April 3, 2006 - The latest generation FRC 94xyH high-definition frame rate converter IC from Micronas (SWX Swiss Exchange: MASN) eliminates unpleasant motion blur and film judder on HDTVs. Driven by the need to eliminate the motion blur that limits today’s LCD performance, the new truD®HD technology is a breakthrough in video processing – it offers an advanced processing technology to generate 120 individual frames per second (fps) from 50/60Hz broadcast content and even from 24 fps film source. Surpassing other products that are limited to 720p processing resolution, the FRC 94xyH has a cutting edge film de-judder solution for Full HD 1920x1080p digital TV sets.
Display manufacturers are working on various approaches to overcome the motion blur effect of LCD TVs. The best method is to increase the image rate – more images give a more realistic portrayal of motion. Leaping ahead of existing technologies, the FRC 94xyH generates 120 images per second, using Micronas’ patented truD®HD technology. The result is a bright, clear moving image without motion blur on LCD TVs.
De-juddering is the process of converting film, originally shot at 24 fps, to the typical TV display frame rates of 50 or 60 Hz, using motion vector estimation and compensation. Micronas’ proprietary truD®HD motion compensation technology increases the frame rate by generating additional frames. To achieve the best possible result, Micronas deploys a unique Full HD processing technology: the FRC 94xyH processes images at full resolution. Consequently, the display delivers an image that is a perfect match to the source image. This is relevant for all FP Displays, including Plasma and Rear Projection TVs.
Judder and motion blur are very visible on large screens, such as 32-inch and bigger. The larger and higher quality the screen, the more important it is to have the most realistic picture possible. With its two unique features based on truD®HD technology, 120 fps motion-blur elimination for HDTVs and Full HD de-juddering, the FRC 94xyH delivers the best picture performance possible from any video input format. The FRC 94xyH enables TV manufacturers to offer a visible advantage to the consumer.
“truD® is a well-proven technology for standard-definition motion compensation and is already in production at several leading television manufacturers,” says Patrik Lind, Product Marketing Manager for the truD product line at Micronas. “The new FRC 94xyH matches perfectly to our VGC 5969B Video Graphics Controller with its 120Hz OSD output. This system is the perfect answer for 120Hz LCD HDTVs and 1080p Plasma HDTVs.”
The FRC 94xyH works with all types of video source material – PAL signals are converted to 100 fps and NTSC signals are converted to 120 fps. Intermediate rates of 75 fps and 90 fps are also supported.
The FRC 94xyH comes in a BGA-260 package and is sampling to qualified OEMs now. Production is planned for Q3/2006. Prices for high quantities range from approximately USD 24 to 30, depending on the product version and volume.