Hitachi Software in the News

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Hitachi Software Interactive Communications Group Launches New Interactive Plasma Display

StarBoard® P-50X System Targets Pro-A/V Market for Video Conference Rooms and High-End Meeting Environments, Sports Teams and Broadcasting

ALAMEDA, CALIFORNIA, October 1, 2003 — Reaffirming its commitment to the highest standards of innovation and design Hitachi Software's Interactive Communications Group today introduced the StarBoard P-50X, interactive 50" plasma display device that provides presenters and educators with new levels of responsiveness, flexibility and space optimization using plasma technologies. The StarBoard P-50X interactive 50" plasma device is the newest member of the category-leading Hitachi Software StarBoard family of interactive communication devices. It consists of a sleek bezel frame with integrated sensors and fits tightly over the new Panasonic Model TH-50PHD6UY, 50" display monitor.

The Panasonic Model TH-50PHD6UY monitor is a full 16:9 HDTV quality monitor with split screen and picture-in-picture modes, supports two different inputs and is ideal for viewing videoconferences along with computer-based data.

The StarBoard P-50X and the StarBoard Software enable presenters to run and annotate computer applications or digital video right on the plasma screen using a supplied pen or any form of non-electronic stylus — even the presenter's finger. Annotated data can be saved in several file formats including .html files for easy viewing with any web browser software.

StarBoard interactive plasma panels are ideal for boardroom, customer meeting rooms, training, distance learning and videoconference settings. They are also excellent tools for weather broadcasting by providing an environment for annotating weather maps, and for annotating diagrams and maps in news broadcasting. Coaches of athletic teams can use the systems to review game and practice film and commentators in sports broadcasting can annotate on digital footage or chalktalk right on the sports field and court backgrounds supplied with the software.

"By combining Hitachi's cutting-edge presentation technology with Panasonic's plasma monitor, we can deliver a compelling package for every high-end conference room, video conference center and sports training facility," explained Ralph Zak, Director, Hitachi Software Engineering Interactive Communications Group. "Together, we are uniquely positioned to provide professional communicators with tools that are intuitive, high performing and set a lower cost of ownership than any competitive system."

The StarBoard P-50X is powered by StarBoard Software's intuitive icon-driven user-interface. The software enables presenters to easily operate and annotate right over Windows applications or digital video on the plasma display. Inherent networking software enables the P-50X to easily communicate with other StarBoard systems and allows for simultaneous viewing and annotation by multiple systems connected either locally or across the Internet. Five different electronic ink types provide a large palette of attractive and eye-catching colors to make annotations standout on the display and add life to the presentation.

The new systems are available in an attractive ergonomic display with an optional stand with a keyboard tray and a lower shelf for a computer. Software support for the StarBoard P-50X is provided with the new StarBoard Software, Release 5.1.2. The StarBoard P-50X is available for shipments today. MSRP is $12,000. The StarBoard P-50X bezel frame with sensors, is available as a standalone device for upgrading the installed base of Panasonic TH-50PHD5UY 50" monitors.

About Hitachi Software
Founded in 1971, Hitachi Software Engineering is a major global supplier of solutions-oriented IT services, employing over 8,000 people worldwide with current sales of over $1.6 billion annually. Hitachi Software provides services using technology to enhance its customers' businesses through value-added professional services, consulting and support; and state-of-the-art multi-media presentation & conferencing systems.

For specifications and more information about the Interactive Communications Group for Hitachi Software's StarBoard products, visit www.hitachi-soft.com, or call 888-615-9600.

All trademarks, trade names, service marks, and logos referenced herein belong to their respective companies.

 

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