Sony Introduces First HDTV-Capable DIRECTV Receiver, Plus New Set-Top Boxes With Interactive Television and Caller ID; New Lineup Includes SAT-HD100, SAT-A60 and SAT-B60

Business Wire, July 19, 2000

Business Editors/High-Tech Writers

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LAS VEGAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 19, 2000

To enhance the home entertainment experience, Sony Electronics today announced its next generation of digital satellite receivers including its first HDTV-capable receiver in the U.S.

Sony is debuting several new multi-satellite tuner models here in Las Vegas at the Satellite Broadcasting & Communications Association's National Satellite Convention and Exposition, highlighted by the introduction of the HDTV-capable SAT-HD100.

The new product lineup also includes the SAT-A60 and SAT-B60, which feature Sony's exclusive Media Window(TM) guide to preview programs while channel surfing, interactive television features with Wink Enhanced Broadcasting(TM) to shop and receive all kinds of information from shows and advertisements instantly, and Caller ID service to view incoming calls right on your TV screen.

All three models deliver the spectacular digital-quality pictures and sound of DIRECTV(R), with access to hundreds of channels of entertainment including sports, news, music, movies and special events. Also, consumers can subscribe to local broadcast channels in select markets.

Also, Sony-manufactured DIRECTV(R) receivers all feature an integrated programming guide to organize and customize programming choices. The Sony Media Window electronic programming guide allows you to watch a TV program while scrolling through other programming choices - all on the same screen.

HDTV-Capable SAT-HD100 With Built-In DIRECTV PLUS(TM) Receiver

The Sony SAT-HD100 delivers over-the-air digital television, over-the-air analog TV, DIRECTV HD and DIRECTV standard definition.

The SAT-HD100 is one of the first digital satellite receivers flexible enough to accommodate a high-definition source in standard definition resolution for display on today's analog televisions. It is also ideally suited for virtually all 1080i-capable televisions such as the Sony KP-53HS10 and KP-61HS10 rear-projection TVs. The SAT-HD100 DIRECTV PLUS receiver includes an output select button that allows you to toggle and select from the following video outputs available - 480i composite and VHF/UHF, 480i component, 1080i component, 1080i VGA.

The SAT-HD100 features an integrated program guide which seamlessly displays all standard digital-quality and high definition DIRECTV programming, as well as digital terrestrial signals and programming received via off-air antenna.

Unique to the SAT-HD100 is the fluorescent front-panel display that includes a clock and readout of the channel name and number, and output terminal designation (1080i or 480i resolution). Also, when any of more than 30 DIRECTV audio channels are selected, the panel display on the front of the receiver shows the name of the artist and song that is playing.

The SAT-HD100 measures 17 inches by 2 7/8 inches, is 11 inches high and weighs six pounds.

Scheduled for availability in November, the SAT-HD100 is expected to sell for about $700.

SAT-A60, SAT-B60 Receivers Include New Lineup of Features With

DIRECTV Interactive Television Powered by Wink and Caller ID

For a gateway to interactive programming options, the SAT-A60 and SAT-B60 digital satellite receivers incorporate Wink Enhanced Broadcasting. This feature is a standard component in the set-top and provides a fast and convenient way to interact with television programs and commercials as you continue to watch TV.

When the Wink service is available, a small symbol appears on the TV screen, indicating a given show or commercial is Wink Enhanced (1). You can interact with the show or commercial using your remote control. You can obtain video offers, product coupons, and even make purchases directly on TV.

Sony's multi-satellite tuners will take advantage of all DIRECTV programming available across their entire system of 101(degree), 110(degree) and 119(degree) satellite orbits to bring new and future programming options to consumers.

Additionally, these models feature access to Spanish-language DIRECTV PARA TODOS(TM) programming (2).

The new tuners feature an intuitive antenna selection via the on-screen menu guide for expanding the channels to include the additional programming from these satellites.

Other features include an "Option Palette" screen, to access new user-friendly features such as "Speed Search" to find a program simply by typing the title using the on-screen keyboard, and "On Time" which allows you to see what's on the programming schedule up to two days in advance. On the advanced SAT-A60, you can also designate up to 24 frequently watched channels using the "Channel Mark" function.

For the home theater enthusiast, the SAT-A60 also introduces a simplified remote whereby access to advanced features is available through on-screen menus. The stylish, ergonomically designed remote control also features luminescent keys making it glow in the dark. Also, with the RF Joystick Remote Commander(R) unit you can control the receiver from anywhere in the home.