subject: Get Ready For 3D HDTVs In Your Home [print this page] The latest buzz in both movie theaters and TVs is 3D. Movies such as Avatar which were shown in 3D have created a demand for 3D at home. The recent CES (consumer electronics show) has seen the introduction this year of 3D HDTVs for the home which will be available this spring. This is the next step in HDTVs which have gone from Black and White, to Color, to High Definition, and now 3D. This will be a dramatic step forward. A 3D TV will require two more elements that are not on 2D TVs. Special 3D Glasses, and a transmitter from the TV that controls the shutter speed of the glasses to keep it in synch.
For 2010, Sony will be introducing 3 models capable of 3D. All of these models are LED backlit LCD 1080p HDTVs with 240hz technology. The top of the line XBR-LX900 Series has local dimming LED backlighting and features integrated 3D functionality (glasses and transmitter). The other two models (XBR-HX900 and KDL-HX800) are 3D ready (the Sony active shutter glasses and transmitter are sold separately). These models use edge lit LED backlighting.
Panasonic is going big in 3D this year with the introduction of several 3D Plasma Tvs ranging from 50 inches to 65 inches. The first will be shipping in the spring. The new VT25 3D series will provide full 1080p in both the left and right eye. They will have 5,000,00 to 1 native contrast, and implement a new type of phosphor in the screen that allows the TV to switch quicker to provide a smoother 3D image. This line also has a 100,000 hour panel life. Panasonic is also introducing a full HD 3D camcorder for professional use (with a price tag of about $21,000).
DIRECTV has announced that they will be adding three dedicated HD 3D channels this year to bring 3D TV into the home. DIRECTV and Panasonic are in a strategic relationship, where Panasonic will be the exclusive presenting sponsor. Panasonic will also provide 3d production tools and Full HD camcorders. New 3D programming will be added in 2010 and 2011.
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has announced that it will Deliver 3D content on Blu-ray discs this summer. Sony will also be introducing 3d compatible Blu-ray players. From what we have read, the new 3D format will require about 50% more storage than the 2D version of the same movie. The PS3 may have a firmware update to make it 3D compatible. (A 3D capable TV set will be required).
ESPN has announced that it will have one of the first dedicated 3D television networks, by broadcasting the first game of the World Cup between Mexico and South Africa in 3D. They also plan to broadcast 85 live sporting events in the first year.
As the year progresses, we expect to see standards made in 3D for TVs and more manufacturers release 3D models and Blu-ray players. To stay competitive, the cable companies will have to meet the challenge that DIRECTV has thrust upon them with this big leap forward for 3D programming. It should be an exciting year for TVs. Time will tell whether 3D becomes the next big thing, or just a gimmick.
