Micronas' Solution Enables Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America, Inc. to Deliver Superior Home-Theater Sound and Picture Quality

FREIBURG, Germany, Aug. 26 /PRNewswire/ -- Micronas (SWX Swiss Exchange: MASN), a leading supplier of innovative application-specific IC system solutions for consumer electronics, announces that Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America, Inc. (MDEA), selected Micronas' MAP-M audio processor and FRC-M 120Hz frame-rate converter to power MDEA's 149 Series of Premium Flat Panel TVs. The 16-speaker Digital Sound Projector(TM) technology delivers surround-sound quality without any additional speakers or wires. Micronas' frame rate converter FRC-M generates smooth, judder-free motion for both film and live content at 120Hz frame rates.

MDEA's 149 Series of Premium Flat Panel TVs are the first TVs worldwide to feature Micronas' Digital Sound Projector solution based on its widely deployed MAP-M audio processor. With technology licensed from 1Ltd, Micronas' Digital Sound Projector sends five separate sound beams via the integrated 16-speaker array. Reflecting off walls and other surfaces, these beams arrive at the listener from all sides of the room, creating a truly immersive surround-sound experience.

"Micronas' product was key in the development of our new concept -- an immersive audio experience with innovative sound technology that exceeds products currently offered on the market," said David Naranjo, Director of Product Development at MDEA. "The integrated Sound Projector eliminates the need for separate audio components and allows a clutter-free home theater system."

Optimum picture quality is assured by using Micronas' industry-leading FRC-M frame-rate converter featuring truD(R)Full HD technology. truD Full HD creates the ultimate TV experience on 1080p LCD TVs by converting low frame-rate video and film content to motion-interpolated 120Hz video. This is especially critical for 24 frames-per-second (fps) film and movie content, which can cause unwanted film judder on conventional TVs. With the integrated Micronas' FRC-M frame-rate converter, the TVs feature crisp and clear sports and movies without LCD-inherent motion blur and film judder.

"Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America, Inc. has a well-deserved reputation for top-quality design and performance and we are extremely pleased to have been selected for their products. FRC-M and truD Full HD technology provide MDEA with superior 120Hz picture quality for HDTVs," says Johann Weierer, Product Marketing Manager at Micronas.

Micronas will showcase MDEA's 46" model in hall 8.1, booth 105, at IFA, the world's largest consumer electronics show in Berlin, Germany, from August 29 - September 3, 2008. MDEA's 149 Series of Premium Flat Panel TVs are sold and distributed in the United States only, and are not available in Europe or other countries of the world.

     Readers contact:
     For Micronas, please contact:
     Christina Sousa
     E-mail: christina.sousa@micronas.com

     For Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America, please contact:
     Nick Norton
     E-mail: nnorton@mdea.com

    Disclaimer:
    Digital Sound Projector is a trademark of 1 Ltd.
    truD HD is a trademark of Micronas.
    truD Full HD is a trademark of Micronas.

About Micronas

Micronas (SWX Swiss Exchange: MASN), a semiconductor designer and manufacturer with worldwide operations, is a leading supplier of cutting-edge IC and sensor system solutions for consumer and automotive electronics. As a market leader in innovative global TV system solutions, Micronas leverages its expertise into new markets emerging through the digitization of audio and video content. Micronas also offers a variety of microcontrollers and Hall-sensors for automotive and industrial applications, such as car dashboard, body control, as well as motor management and comfort functions.

Micronas serves all major consumer and automotive electronics customers worldwide, many of them in continuous partnerships seeking joint success. While the holding company is headquartered in Zurich (Switzerland), operational headquarters are based in Freiburg (Germany). Currently, the Micronas Group employs around 2000 people. In 2007 it generated CHF 713/USD 596/EUR 433 million in sales. For more information on Micronas and its products, please visit http://www.micronas.com.

SOURCE Micronas