Gateway Enters Rear Projection TV Category With a 56-Inch DLP(TM) Model

[Gregg Lengling]

Excellent Value in DLP(TM) Category Is One Third the Size of
                       Traditional Rear Projection TVs

    POWAY, Calif., Oct. 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Undergoing a sweeping
transformation from a traditional PC company into a branded integrator of
personalized technology solutions -- a maker of digital gear that works
together -- Gateway, Inc. today entered the rear projection TV market.  It's
now offering a 56-inch DLP(TM) rear projection TV that's less than 19 inches
deep and available for just $3,799.
With the top-selling plasma TV line in America, Gateway is moving quickly
to offer consumers a wider selection of cutting-edge TVs that break new ground
on value and features.  Overcoming two common objections to rear-projection
TVs -- bulk and price -- the new Gateway 56-inch DLP(TM) or Digital Light
Processing(TM) TV packs the benefits of rear projection into a package that's
one-third the size of traditional rear projection TVs.  Generating stunning
HDTV pictures, it's perfect for consumers who want a big HDTV monitor
without the limited viewing angle and bulky design of standard rear-projection
TVs.
    Unlike competitive companies, Gateway's three-channel strategy includes
the ability to showcase thin TVs, home theater systems and other CE devices in
its nationwide network of 190 stores.  This model enables consumers to
evaluate how the products perform and work together before making a purchase
decision.  According to Gateway's customer satisfaction study, 94 percent of
its TV customers during the past quarter reported making the purchase through
a store, demonstrating the company's distinct advantage with its multi-channel
direct model.
    Gateway has become a leader in home entertainment in less than a year.
After launching its first thin television in November 2002, Gateway became the
top U.S. seller of plasma screen TVs.  The company offers a full line of
thin TVs -- ten LCD, plasma and rear-projection models ranging from 13-inches
to 56-inches.
    "Gateway's digital TV offering is unparalleled in terms of value, size and
style," said Matt Milne, Gateway's senior vice president and general manager
of consumer solutions.  "The addition of a rear projection model opens an
entirely new market for Gateway and presents another opportunity for the
company to bring more homes the benefits of digital technology at a great
value."
    The rear projection TV is a comprehensive offering with built-in speakers
and dual NTSC tuners.  It also extends the ability to connect external devices
including DVI-based DVD players, HDTV tuners, gaming modules and VCRs.  Plus,
it's the perfect visual medium for Gateway(TM) home theater systems, which
enhance the entertainment experience with dynamic surround sound.
    Ideal for big living rooms, the striking size makes viewing favorite
programs a superb home theater experience. Its 1280 x 720 (720p) native
resolution and 1000:1 contrast ratio create exceptional image clarity.  The
HDTV monitor can receive a wide range of high-definition programming
available now and coming soon.

    Best-in-Class Picture-in-Picture Performance
    An easy to use, "picture-in-picture" (PIP) function allows viewers to
watch two shows at the same time -- one family member can enjoy baseball
playoffs, while keeping an eye on the action in a football game.  DCDi by
Faroudja(TM) provides advanced picture management with the highest quality
Faroudja(TM) video processing for cinema-quality video from multiple sources
including DVD, VCR and cable.  Leveraging a unique dual DCDi video processing
system, the rear projection TV yields brilliant picture quality in both
windows, which are compatible with different settings and formats, completely
independent of each other.  The benefit is maximum variability of PIP
transparency, sizing and positioning options as well as multiple scanning
modes including main+3, main+7 and main+11 for viewing several channels
simultaneously.
    The new rear projection TV comes with a Gateway OFR-1 Universal Remote
Control that can manage up to 8 devices and a separate remote for controlling
the picture-in-picture function and side-by-side viewing options.  Dual
headphone outputs include one for the main display and another for the
picture-in-picture window.  The TV also offers multiple HDTV component, DVI
with HDCP, VGA/RGB, composite and s-video AV inputs.

    DLP(TM) Technology Provides a Picture-Perfect Image
    Gateway's new rear projection TV is based on Texas Instrument's Digital
Light Processing(TM) or DLP(TM) technology.  DLP(TM) technology reproduces
source images more closely than other display solutions, resulting in a
clearer projection.  At the heart of DLP(TM) technology is the unique Digital
Micromirror Device, which comprises an array of microscopic mirrors that
reflect light more efficiently, thereby projecting a brighter picture.  It's
also more reliable than alternative technologies, since it's not susceptible
to heat, humidity or vibration.

    Availability, Warranty, Service and Financing
    Gateway's 56-inch DLP(TM) rear projection TV (SHD-5610) will ship on
Nov. 13.  Customers interested in rear projection technology can get the
advice they need from highly trained sales professionals at Gateway stores
nationwide.  Gateway supports its rear projection TVs with a one-year limited
warranty and offers custom installation services and a wide range of
extended support plans.