Thomson Previews New RCA DTC210 HDTV Set-Top Receiver

[Gregg Lengling]

Thomson (Euronext Paris: 18453, NYSE: TMS) demonstrated a new RCA HDTV receiver, model DTC210, that will deliver the growing array of HDTV programming available from DIRECTV® as well as over-the-air ATSC (digital) and NTSC (analog) broadcasts to consumers.

"The HDTV transition continues to pick up momentum reflected by the strong sales of HDTV sets and monitors that are being spurred on by the expanded HDTV offerings now available on both DIRECTV and broadcast television," commented Doug Lankford, General Manager, Direct Broadcast Satellite Americas. "The new RCA DTC 210 offers consumers the ideal combination of features and connectivity for the utmost in high-definition enjoyment. The multi-format receiver delivers a stunning high-definition picture from both DIRECTV and over-the-air broadcasts, includes both conventional and secure digital connections, and offers many of the features that DIRECTV customers are accustomed to such as advanced program guide and one-button record."

The DTC210 offers numerous convenience features including the DIRECTV Advanced Program Guide with seven-day listings of both terrestrial and DIRECTV satellite programming, allowing a seamless transition when switching between satellite and over-the-air broadcasts. A new high-speed guide-surfing function allows for searches by names of actors, movies, and other one-step search fields. A video window in the guide will enable viewers to continue watching a program while surfing through the listings, or consumers may choose to utilize the Quick Guide which will allow them to scan to see what is on while still viewing a program in full-screen.

The DTC210 incorporates a secure DVI output with HDCP copy protection technology. It will also offer multiple output formats for display of all digital TV formats - 1080i, 720p, 480p, and 480i. The DTC210's output scan rate can be matched to any digital TV monitor's native resolution - LCD, plasma, DLP™, CRT, etc. Additionally, the DTC210 will simultaneously output 480i signals.

The new satellite receiver will feature both coaxial and optical Dolby® Digital audio outputs, and standard RGBHV (15-pin D-sub) and YPrPb component video outputs.

The DTC210 will be available in early 2004.

Thomson also showcased two RCA DIRECTV Digital Video Recorders with TiVo® service that provide consumers the ability to personalize how they watch television. The RCA DVR40 features a 40 GB hard disk drive for recording and storing up to 35 hours of DIRECTV programming, while the RCA DVR120 has a 120 GB hard drive and will store up to 100 hours of programming.

With the dual tuners, viewers can record two shows simultaneously or watch one show while recording another.

Key features include pausing live TV for up to 30 minutes, as well as rewind, instant replay, and slow motion of live TV or a recorded program. Viewers can create a Season Pass® to automatically record every episode of favorite shows and can use the WishList® feature to instruct the DVR to find and record shows with favorite actors, directors, sports teams, or interests.

The RCA DVR40 has a suggested retail price of $299. The RCA DVR120 has a suggested retail price of $449. The DIRECTV with TiVo service monthly subscription fee is currently $4.95 and will be free for customers who subscribe to the DIRECTV Total Choice® Premier programming package.

For more information, visit //www.rca.com.