Hot off the Word Processor!

Some Interesting new products Hit the Market. Or, "Hype - We've got Hype..." (note: most of these items are taken from company press releases or culled from other, similar sources. They're published for your information only and the claims are those of the manufacturers or their hypemeisters, not TechnoFILE - though we do manage to slip in the occasional snide remark - editor)

Other News Here

New Summer HP Pavilion series leads the charge with DVD recordable technology

MISSISSAUGA, ON., July 4, 2002 -- Hewlett-Packard (Canada) Ltd. today
unveiled its new HP Pavilion PC line.

"The products unveiled today represent the wide array of innovative
solutions the New HP is delivering to consumer desktop customers," said
Mike Larson, senior vice president and general manager at HP. "With the
industry's first DVD+R optical drives, these new products continue to
provide customers with the high level of performance and innovation
expected from HP."

HP Pavilion Home Desktop PC Summer Lineup ? Power to the consumer

HP continues to lead the charge with DVD recordable technology with the
introduction of the HP Pavilion 772N home desktop PC. HP's newest DVD
recordable drive ? the HP dvd200i DVD+RW/+R drive ? with write-once
functionality, will be available in the new PC, priced at $2399. This
product will hit retail shelves in July.

Below includes detailed features for three of the PCs included with HP's
new summer 2002 line:

* The HP Pavilion 792N is powered by an Intel PentiumTM 4 2.4GHz processor
and includes 512MB DDR RAM, a 120GB hard-disk drive, HP DVD+RW/+R drive,
DVD-ROM drive, 64MB SDRAM GeForce4 MX420LC graphics card, USB 2.0, IEEE
1394 and 10/100 Base-T network interface. The estimated Canadian retail
price is $2,999*. Available in July.

* The HP Pavilion 772N is powered by an Intel Pentium 4 2.26GHz processor
and includes 512MB DDR RAM, an 80GB hard-disk drive, HP DVD+RW/+R drive,
CD-ROM drive, 32MB DDR GeForce4 MX420LC graphics card, USB 2.0, IEEE 1394
and 10/100 Base-T network interface. The estimated Canadian retail price
is $2,399*. Available in July.

* The HP Pavilion 752N is powered by an Intel Pentium 4 2.0GHz processor
and includes 512MB DDR RAM, a 60GB hard-disk drive, HP CD-RW drive, DVD-ROM
drive, USB 2.0, IEEE 1394 and 10/100 Base-T network interface. The
estimated Canadian retail price is $1,799*. Available in stores now.

* The HP Pavilion 522N is powered by an Intel CeleronTM 1.8GHz processor
and includes 256MB DDR RAM, a 60GB hard-disk drive, HP CD-RW drive, DVD-ROM
drive, USB 2.0 and 10/100 Base-T network interface. The estimated Canadian
retail price is $1399*. Available in July.

Availability

HP's summer 2002 line of HP Pavilion home PCs will be available in July at consumer electronics and computer superstores nationwide.

Epson Introduces new 24-inch-Wide and 44-inch-wide photographic printers with new seven-colour Ultrachrome ink system

EPSON Stylus Pro 7600 and EPSON Stylus Pro 9600 Offer Faster Print Speeds and Exhibit-Quality Output - Even in Black and White

May 2, 2002 ? They're the most advanced wide-format photographic ink jet printers ever manufactured by Epson, delivering a level of image quality to meet the needs of today's most demanding digital imaging professionals. Epson Canada Ltd. is once again raising the bar on the professional-level imaging market with the introduction of the EPSON Stylus Pro 7600 and EPSON Stylus Pro 9600.

Both new ink jet printers introduce several advanced new features and technologies including EPSON UltraChrome ink - a new archival system that uses seven individual colours to create exhibit-quality output on a wide selection of media in colour and black and white. The EPSON Stylus Pro 7600 replaces the EPSON Stylus Pro 7000 and 7500 for printing images as wide as 24 inches, while the EPSON Stylus Pro 9600 replaces the EPSON Stylus Pro 9000 and 9500 for printing as wide as 44 inches.

"Designed in collaboration with some of the world's best photographers and printmakers, these new print engine technologies will produce some of the world's most exciting photographic prints," said Don Cameron, Marketing Communications Manager, Epson Canada. "With the introduction of these new print engines, Epson has delivered an incredible tool allowing creative professionals to produce their vision without compromise."

Building on the technology of EPSON Archival Ink and EPSON

DuraBright Ink, EPSON UltraChrome Ink retains the advantages of high resistance to water and light, plus the largest colour range ever for pigmented inks. These printers can also print stunning black and white photographs with the addition of a new lower density black ink- -Light Black - which helps produce more neutral grays with no colour casting and crossover.

The EPSON Stylus Pro 7600 and Stylus Pro 9600 are the first Stylus Pro models to use UltraChrome inks and create a level of colour that is now extremely close to that of Epson's popular six-colour, photo dye-based inks. The end-result is more vibrant and saturated reds, oranges and yellows. Furthermore, the EPSON Stylus Pro 7600 and Stylus Pro 9600 offer lightfastness ratings for colour images up to 100 years under glass, and greater than 100 years for black and white prints under glass, on specific Epson papers.

Sonic Introduces MyDVD Video Suite;
Most Comprehensive Solution for Creating DVDs at Home Combines Real-time DVD Recording with ArcSoft ShowBiz Video Editing Software

April 25, 2002--Sonic Solutions (Nasdaq:SNIC) today released MyDVD(TM) Video Suite, the most comprehensive solution available for consumer DVD production and video editing. MyDVD Video Suite makes it possible for home users to record, share and re-edit their personal videos on DVD or CD. Now shipping to Sonic OEM partners, MyDVD Video Suite will be available on Sonic's web store in early May.

MyDVD Video Suite includes Sonic MyDVD, the world's leading application for creating DVDs, and ArcSoft ShowBiz, a comprehensive video application for editing DV and MPEG video. MyDVD Video Suite incorporates many DVD publishing features pioneered by Sonic including Direct-to-DVD(TM) for recording directly from a camcorder to DVD or CD, as well as Sonic's unique Edit-on-DVD(TM), which allows users to re-edit their OpenDVD(TM)-compliant DVDs in the fastest possible manner without having to re-load all of the original material.

MyDVD Video Suite enables users to record videos to DVD, watch them on their TVs, and then, if they wish, put them back into their PCs to edit and update the content. ArcSoft ShowBiz adds expanded video editing functionality, enabling users to perform advanced edits, including transitions, titles and effects. Files can be passed seamlessly between MyDVD and ShowBiz, streamlining the editing process.

"MyDVD Video Suite provides a complete solution for powerful, yet easy-to-use, DVD creation and video editing capabilities that Compaq Presario customers have been asking for," said Brett Faulk, director of Consumer Desktop Marketing for Compaq. "With the explosion of interest in digital video editing and DVD recording, MyDVD Video Suite simplifies and extends Compaq's award-winning MyMovieSTUDIO digital movie-making experience for all customers."

"Sonic is the ideal partner when it comes to DVD, and MyDVD teamed with ArcSoft ShowBiz delivers more functionality and flexibility than any other solution on the market today," said Chris Bethell, director of Marketing at ArcSoft. "MyDVD Video Suite makes it easy for users to rapidly create great looking DVDs and provides consumers with a host of powerful tools to polish their home videos with additional edits, transitions and effects."

"We are very excited to offer this complete solution for consumers and desktop video enthusiasts who want to create their own DVDs," said Dave Habiger, senior vice president and general manager, Desktop Product Group at Sonic. "MyDVD Video Suite provides the ideal solution for users who want fast, easy and great-looking results on DVD, as well as for those who want to devote more time editing their custom videos."

About Sonic MyDVD

Sonic MyDVD is the world's leading solution for creating DVDs at home. MyDVD allows consumers to record, watch, re-edit and share their videos on DVD and CD with speed, quality and ease. With its Direct-to-DVD capability, users can record analog or digital video (DV) directly from their camcorders or VCRs to DVD. The result is a professional-looking DVD with interactive graphical menus that can play in any of the millions of set-top and PC-based DVD players installed worldwide. MyDVD also allows users to incorporate video from a variety of other sources including clips downloaded from the Internet, content from other DVDs, or exported clips from virtually any video editing application.

With Sonic's unique Edit-on-DVD implementation of the OpenDVD specification, Sonic MyDVD is the only consumer application that supports re-editing DVDs directly from the disc, making it possible for users to revise and append a DVD project without re-loading all of the original elements. MyDVD also creates discs that are OpenDVD compliant so that they can be "opened" and re-edited, expanding the possibilities for DVD by making it easy to create video diaries, up-to-the-minute customized sales presentations, family video albums and more.

Sonic Solutions, Sonic, the Sonic logo, Edit-on-DVD, MyDVD, OpenDVD and ReelDVD are trademarks of Sonic Solutions. AuthorScript, DVD Creator, DVDit! and Scenarist are registered trademarks of Sonic Solutions. All other company or product names are trademarks of their respective owners and, in some cases, are used by Sonic under license. Specifications, pricing and delivery schedules are subject to change without notice.

The above paragraphs of this press release may contain forward looking statements that are based upon current expectations. Actual results could differ materially from those projected in the forward looking statements as a result of various risks and uncertainties including, among others, the timely introduction and acceptance of new products, costs associated with new product introductions, the transition of products to new hardware configurations and platforms and other factors, including those discussed in the Company's annual and quarterly reports on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. This press release should be read in conjunction with the Company's most recent annual report on Form 10-K, Form 10-Q and Registration Statement on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which contain a more detailed discussion of the Company's business including risks and uncertainties that may affect future results. The Company does not undertake to update any forward looking statements.

3D TV Makes a Detour -- To the Fireplace; Hot New Concept Brings 3D Technology to the Home

SANTA MONICA, Calif.--April 11, 2002--First there was wood, then there was gas, now there is an added dimension in the fireplace.

DDD Group plc (AIM:DDD) and Hearth Technologies Inc., a subsidiary of HON Industries (NYSE:HNI), will demonstrate a 3D sales presentation tool for fireplace distributors and preview a new 3D fireplace concept at the Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Expo 2002 at the Anaheim Convention Center this week.

The 3D fireplace extends the convenience of gas fireplaces with the prospect of additional features like a 3D photo album, 3D art gallery and even 3D home theater -- all without the need for 3D glasses.

"DDD's TriDef(TM) 3D System is so realistic that it's the ideal foundation for the next innovation in the fireplace market," said Chris Yewdall, president and CEO of DDD. "Hearth Technologies is the market leader and we're excited to be working with them on this new concept."

DDD's TriDef technologies enable any content to be converted from 2D to 3D. So in addition to displaying fire, home owners can have a range of content converted for 3D viewing, including family photos and favorite artworks. As 3D movies become available on DVD, they can also be viewed on the 3D display.

The 3D screen is available now for use by fireplace distributors as a high impact sales presentation tool. It can be used to showcase traditional product line collateral in 3D, at trade shows to increase booth traffic and message recall, and is portable enough to take on builder sales calls.

Hearth Technologies, Inc. is the largest fireplace manufacturer and distributor in the world. It manufactures and sells fireplaces, inserts, stoves, and gas log sets under the Heatilator, Heat-N-Glo, QuadraFire and Dovre brand names. Hearth Technologies is the innovation leader in the fireplace industry, with over 50 patents including the patent for direct-vent gas fireplaces.

DDD is bringing 3D to the mass-market with its TriDef 3D System. Its patented technologies enable 3D viewing without glasses; supply of 3D content through 2D to 3D conversion; and 3D transmission over existing networks. DDD is listed on the London Stock Exchange's Alternative Investment Market (AIM:DDD). More information is available at www.ddd.com.

JVC REVOLUTIONIZES DIGITAL CINEMATOGRAPHY WITH PHOTON VISION SYSTEMS IMAGE SENSOR, PROVIDING RESOLUTION FOUR TIMES HIGHER THAN HDTV

Photon Vision Systems' CMOS ACS® Imager Technology To Be Integrated Into JVC Camera

April 7, 2002 - Photon Vision Systems, Inc. (PVS®), an industry leader in designing and delivering low cost, high quality imaging sensors, supporting electronics and imaging solutions to customers worldwide, today announced the integration of its CMOS 8.3 million pixel QuadHDTV™ imaging sensor into JVC's Ultra High Definition TV™ (UDTV) color camera. This camera utilizes three of PVS's QuadHDTV™ sensors to deliver 25 million pixels and operates at 30 full frames per second (progressive or interlaced, selectable). The resolution of PVS's QuadHDTV™ sensor is four times that of High Definition Television (HDTV), with a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels.

PVS's QuadHDTV™ sensor brings new levels of resolution and speed, as well as quality, versatility and convenience to applications such as digital cinematography, studio broadcasting, demanding security and biometrics, scientific analysis, industrial quality inspection, and others.

"We chose PVS's CMOS 8.3 million pixel QuadHDTV™ sensor to bring its unique imaging capabilities to our Ultra High Definition TV (UDTV) camera now under development because of PVS's notable technology and quantifiable competitive advantages," said Clark Yoshida, President, JVC Laboratory of America. "Of all the available sensor technologies, PVS's proved superior and helps to ensure that we continue to deliver the latest innovations in presentation, broadcast, and professional equipment."

Within digital cinematography, high-resolution digital technology is replacing film as the medium for motion pictures. Movies can now be shot digitally for the big screen, digitally post-processed, and even screened digitally. Digital movies do not degrade like film, so the 1,000th viewing will be as crisp and clean as the first. Digital moviemaking dramatically lowers production and distribution costs and speeds up post-production work. As an added benefit, digital movie cameras are lighter, more mobile and allow a higher frame rate, eliminating the familiar flicker at the movie theaters.

"The delivery of our QuadHDTV™ sensor was the result of a strong collaborative effort with JVC, a leading global supplier of high end video imaging systems," said Thomas L. Vogelsong, Ph.D., President and CEO of PVS. "We are pleased to report that the sensor has been placed in JVC's camera with outstanding results at full resolution and speed. Credit also goes to our foundry provider, Tower Semiconductor, Ltd. (NASDAQ: TSEM), whose seamless stitching process has made this achievement possible."

Prior to the introduction of QuadHDTV™, moviemakers and studios had to take a step backwards in resolution when choosing to transition from conventional film to the more flexible digital cameras. First generation digital movies are currently being captured with a resolution of only 1280 x 1024 pixels, enough for viewing on a computer monitor, but clearly deficient when displayed on the big screen or home theatre system.

Television is another medium that benefits from QuadHDTV™ technology. In a broadcast of a soccer game, for example, the entire field can be shot digitally in real time with the QuadHDTV™ sensor. Any action, no matter where it occurred on the field, can be recorded and played back in "instant zoom replay." This feature adds tremendous flexibility to the broadcast of the game, and, as an added benefit for producers, the QuadHDTV™ captures all of the action using fewer cameras than traditional filming methods.

Another exciting feature for television spectators is QuadHDTV™'s ability to provide extreme "zoom" close-ups of the players and action on any part of the field. This is possible because the QuadHDTV™ sensor has 32 times the resolution of standard television. From the comfort of their own homes, sports fans can now view the entire field of play, and recall instant replays and "zoom" close-ups in high definition clarity. An improvement over being present at a live game, the viewer can see more of the field, in greater detail than they could see from the stands.

Other applications for the QuadHDTV™ sensor include Security and Biometrics. The QuadHDTV™ sensor is perfectly suited for uses such as passenger identification verification at airports and video surveillance at other security checkpoints. The QuadHDTV™ sensor allows a large, moving crowd to be imaged and can provide the detail needed for computer recognition of individual faces or other features.

The QuadHDTV™ sensor integrates PVS' innovative Active Column Sensor (ACS®) technology for low noise video, its PVS-Bus™ technology for high-speed video data rates, and other proprietary technologies. Use of these advanced PVS technologies in combination with standard foundry processing results in fewer defects and therefore better image quality. These standard processes are also used to make most integrated circuits today, including microprocessors, memory, and other devices.

"The advancements embodied in this achievement prove without a doubt that ACS® image sensors are the technology of choice for demanding applications," declares Vogelsong.

"We're excited at the demonstrated capabilities of PVS's CMOS 8.3 million pixel QuadHDTV™ imaging sensor," said Kai Schleupen, manager, Design and Electronics Advanced Display Technology Laboratory, IBM T.J. Watson Research Center. "Their sensor may prove to be the optimal input device for our recently released 9.2Mpixel 22.2-inch LCD display. We are eager to begin work with PVS in order to deliver the highest quality high-resolution LCD display for graphics, CAD, satellite imagery and other applications, and further IBM's position as a leading global research organization."

JL Audio Evolution™ Loudspeakers For 2002-
New Cosmetics And Improvements

Miramar, Florida- 2002-JL Audio has introduced significant enhancements and improvements to their Evolution component and coaxial loudspeaker systems, specifically for the entry level TR line and the mid level VR systems. These new models will include the "i" suffix in the model number to reflect the changes.

A totally new fresh cosmetic look has been introduced for the entry level Evolution TR range, featuring "ice-blue" injection-molded, metallized polypropylene cones along with a new tweeter bezel design. The efficiency and mid-range presence has also been enhanced to provide sharper sound and improved output.

A new 6-1/2-inch component system has been added to the TR lineup: the TR650-CSi. This new system features a compact 1/2-inch woven fabric component dome tweeter with a neodymium magnet and liquid cooling. An in-line high-pass filter makes installation a snap, eliminating the need for a separate outboard crossover network. Its excellent performance and competitive price make it a solid addition to the lineup.

The mid-priced Evolution VR component and coaxial loudspeaker systems designed for performance minded auto sound enthusiasts, have been cosmetically enhanced with injection-molded, dark silver, metallized polypropylene cones.

Evolution XR Designed for the most discriminating listener and auto sound competitor, the new Evolution XR systems (except the XR653-CS), will include programmable crossover networks which permit not only setting the tweeter level, but also provide a revolutionary, three-position mid-range presence adjustment. The 2-Way component systems permit 15 different combinations of tweeter level and mid-range presence allowing for precise tailoring of the sound for a vehicle's acoustics or the listener's tastes.

Finally, a new TrimGrille™ design has been added to all Evolution TR, VR and XR models that include grilles. The new design dresses the woofer mounting flange with or without the grille mesh attached for a cleaner look on the board or in the car.

Availability: First quarter of 2002

Digital images are available for all models by calling Lucette Nicoll, Nicoll Public Relations at 781-762-9300 or by email at lucette@nicollpr.com.

Evolution TR
TR350-CXi: 3.5-inch coaxial, Suggested Retail: $69.95/pr.
TR400-CXi: 4-inch coaxial, Suggested Retail: $109.95/pr.
TR525-CXi: 5.25-inch coaxial, Suggested Retail: $149.95/pr.
TR570-CXi: 5x7/6x8-inch coaxial, Suggested Retail: $159.95/pr.
TR600-CXi: 6-inch coaxial, Suggested Retail: $159.95/pr.
TR650-CXi: 6.5-inch coaxial, Suggested Retail: $169.95/pr.
TR690-TXi: 6x9-inch 3-Way, Suggested Retail: $179.95/pr.
TR650-CSi: 6.5-inch, 2-Way Component System, Suggested Retail: $199.95

Evolution VR
VR525-CXi: 5.25-inch coaxial, Suggested Retail: $179.95/pr.
VR600-CXi: 6-inch coaxial, Suggested Retail: $199.95/pr.
VR650-CXi: 6.5-inch coaxial, Suggested Retail: $209.95/pr.
VR690-CXi: 6x9-inch coaxial, Suggested Retail: $269.95/pr.
VR525-CSi: 5.25-inch, 2-Way Component System, Suggested Retail: $279.95/pr.
VR600-CSi: 6-inch, 2-Way Component System, Suggested Retail: $299.95/pr.
VR650-CSi: 6.5-inch, 2-Way Component System, Suggested Retail: $319.95/pr.

Evolution XR
XR525-CXi: 5.25-inch coaxial, Suggested Retail: $279.95/pr.
XR570-CXi: 5x7/6x8-inch coaxial, Suggested Retail: $319.95/pr.
XR650-CXi: 6.5-inch coaxial, Suggested Retail: $299.95/pr.
XR525-CSi: 5.25-inch, 2-Way Component System, Suggested Retail: $379.95/pr.
XR570-CSi: 5x7/6x8-inch, 2-Way Component System, Suggested Retail: $419.95/pr.
XR650-CSi: 6.5-inch, 2-Way Component System, Suggested Retail: $399.95/pr.
XR653-CS: 6.5-inch 3-Way Component System, Suggested Retail: $569.95/pr.

Advanced Multi-channel Processor Debuts from Rotel

7.1-Channel Design Blends Sophisticated DSP, Audiophile Analog Quality

North Reading, MA--Rotel has been widely acknowledged for four decades as a leader in "affordable high-end" components designed for serious audiophile and home-theater fans. The most recent example is the RSP-1066 Surround Processor/Preamplifier, a sophisticated AV control center that combines the latest in digital-surround technologies for film-sound and music with the kind of "audiophile" analog design for which Rotel is justifiably famous-as well as with simple, intelligent design that delivers outstanding simplicity and convenience.

The RSP-1066 is a flexible, configurable controller engineered to serve as the ideal master component of even the most sophisticated home-theater system. It provides surround decoding and processing with outputs of up to 7.1-channel configurations, via Dolby Digital, dts/ES/ES Discrete, and Dolby Pro Logic II, as well as dts' Neo:6 mode and a range of proprietary surround programs for music and AV programming alike. The RSP-1066 also decodes HDCD stereo recordings, as well as recordings in MP3 encoded audio, making it one of the most versatile home-theater controllers available.

More importantly, Rotel also ensures that the RSP-1066 will be one of the most soncially satisfying multi-channel preamps available by applying the company's extensive expertise in high-end audio circuitry with an exceptionally powerful and precise DSP processor from Crystal Semiconductors. Drawing on four decades of experience designing audiophile CD players (for which they have a well-deserved reputation of excellence) Rotel expended considerable effort on the new preamp/controller's digital filter and D/A converters, recognizing that "getting the digital-to-analog done right" is an absolute prerequisite to high-end multi-channel sound quality. Of course, the Rotel design team understood the equal importance of the RSP-1066's analog-audio circuitry. Consequently, it incorporates a high-current, multi-regulated, ultra-low-noise power supply based around a Rotel-designed power transformer, and meticulously designed analog stages employing selected passive components and wideband, wide-dynamic-range active elements.

Enabling it to optimize virtually any system, the RSP-1066's bass-management system provides for adjustable crossover settings (40-120 Hz, in 20 Hz increments), an invaluable aid in fine-tuning the critical blend between subwoofer and satellite speakers. Its flexible input facilities include positions for five audio-video and three audio-only sources, plus five digital-audio inputs-as well as a 6.1-chanel analog discrete input, for a DVD-Audio/SACD (or future format) player-delivering the flexibility and expandability today's most advanced home theaters will inevitably demand. Eight independent audio outputs similarly contribute to layout flexibility, up to full 7.1-channel status, and the RSP-1066 also provides an independent remote-zone output that can be controlled from the preamp's front panel, as well as via a remote infrared or wall-panel controller.

Rotel recognizes that even in an audiophile-targeted home-theater preamp/controller, video performance can prove just as important as audio. Consequently, the RSP-1066 incorporates studio-quality video circuitry, delivering all the convenience of integrated video switching without fear of signal degradation and compromised video quality. The RSP-1066 features 12 volt trigger outputs, composite and S-Video inputs and outputs for every source, and provides selectable, wide-band-compatible component-video switching for two sources. It also includes discrete on/off remote control command codes and multi-source/multi-zone operation even allows volume adjustment of the remote zone from the RSP-1066's front panel. The RSP-1066 is supplied with a programmable total-system remote controller, and also includes an RS-232 serial port by which full control can be given externally, as via a third-party touch-panel or multi-room systems. (The serial port also makes possible potential future software updates for the Rotel's surround-sound and operating-system processors.)

NINTENDO GAMECUBE Product Update (note: prices in CDN$)

What do MTV, Britney Spears and Mario* have in common? They were all born in 1981 and will be celebrating their 21st birthdays this year. Not only will Mario turn 21, but he will also make his NINTENDO GAMECUBE(tm) debut later this year. Other personalities will also be making appearances on NINTENDO GAMECUBE as the library is expected to grow to more than 100 titles by the end of September. Nintendo fans better be ready to get the party started.

* On August 26, the latest title in the blockbuster Mario franchise, Super Mario* Sunshine, a 3-D action-adventure game, will debut exclusively for NINTENDO GAMECUBE.

* NINTENDO GAMECUBE endorsement is considerable, with more than 20 publishers, including such heavyweights as: Activision, Acclaim, Capcom, Electronic Arts, Konami, Midway, Namco, Sega, THQ, and Ubi Soft providing support.

* From its inception, NINTENDO GAMECUBE was built to be the easiest of all video game platforms to develop games for. More than ever before, programmers, artists and designers are joining Nintendo's noteworthy development roster and, to date, nearly 400 teams are currently developing games for NINTENDO GAMECUBE.

* Star Fox® Adventures, a joint development effort by the world-renowned game designers at RARE, Ltd. and Nintendo, will be available this fall only for NINTENDO GAMECUBE, retailing for $79.95.

* The eerily intriguing Eternal Darkness: Sanity's Requiem(tm) will take players on an action-filled, psychological adventure on June 24. Rated "M" for mature, this game will offer spine-tingling thrills for $69.95.

* Beginning June 24, Memory Card 251 will offer consumers more storage capacity for saving NINTENDO GAMECUBE games at a price of $29.95.

* Nintendo will offer a revolutionary wireless controller using RF technology: the innovative Wave Bird(tm) Controller. The Wave Bird Controller will allow people to play NINTENDO GAMECUBE from anywhere in the room, without wires and without having to be directly in front of an infrared receiver. The Wave Bird Controller, priced at $64.95, arrives June 24.

Volkswagen Signs Agreement With XM and Sirius to Offer Car Buyers Satellite Radio

NEW YORK and WASHINGTON, March 25 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Volkswagen of America, Inc., which also encompasses Audi of America, today announced it has signed distribution agreements with Sirius Satellite Radio (Nasdaq: SIRI) and XM Satellite Radio (Nasdaq: XMSR), to offer Volkswagen and Audi customers in the United States a choice of satellite radio services in the coming years. XM and Sirius are each broadcasting a satellite radio service, offering 100 channels of digital audio entertainment coast to coast for a low monthly fee. Specific vehicle installation plans and timing will be announced separately by Volkswagen and Audi in the future.

"We are thrilled to add Volkswagen and Audi to the list of automakers that have embraced satellite radio," said Joseph P. Clayton, President and CEO of Sirius and Hugh Panero, President and CEO of XM, in a joint statement.

About XM: XM is transforming radio, an industry that has seen little technological change since FM, almost 40 years ago. XM's programming lineup features 100 coast-to-coast digital channels: 71 music channels, more than 30 of them commercial-free, from hip hop to opera, classical to country, bluegrass to blues; and 29 channels of sports, talk, children's and entertainment. XM also brings to the car, for the first time on radio, the same diverse selection of 24-hour news sources available in the home on cable and DIRECTV. General Motors in November rolled out factory-installed Delphi-Delco XM radios in Cadillac DeVille and Seville models, and will expand to a total of 23 Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, Olds and Pontiac models this year. Isuzu dealers will begin to offer XM radios to customers in April. XM radios are available at major electronics retailers nationwide including Best Buy, Circuit City, Tweeter, Ultimate Electronics, participating RadioShack Dealers and Franchisees, Crutchfield, Good Guys, CarToys, Audio Express and Sound Advice; and at independent retailers. Leading manufacturers such as Sony, Alpine and Pioneer offer a broad array of XM radios that easily enable any existing car stereo system. XM's strategic investors include America's leading car, radio and satellite TV companies -- General Motors, American Honda Motor Co. Inc., Clear Channel Communications and DIRECTV. For more information, please visit XM's web site.

About Sirius: From its three satellites orbiting directly over the U.S., Sirius broadcasts 100 channels of digital quality radio to motorists throughout the continental United States for a monthly subscription fee of $12.95. Sirius delivers 60 original channels of completely commercial- free music in virtually every genre, and 40 world-class sports, news and entertainment channels. Sirius has agreements to install AM/FM/SAT radios in Ford, Chrysler, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Jaguar, Volvo, Mazda, Dodge and Jeep(R) vehicles. Kenwood, Panasonic, Clarion and Jensen satellite receivers, including models that can adapt any car stereo to receive Sirius, as well as home and portable products, will be available at retailers such as Circuit City, Best Buy, Good Guys, Tweeter, Ultimate Electronics and Crutchfield.

PS Audio Ship Innovative Power Director

Unique Power Management Device Sets New Performance Standards for Switching and Network Command Functions in Custom A/V Systems

BOULDER, CO, March, 2002-PS Audio, an innovator for the last 30 years in developing superb high-performance audio and power management products at reasonable prices, has begun to ship the Power Director, the latest in its growing family of innovative power delivery systems.

The Power Director is a power management device designed to perform all the necessary switching and network command functions that are needed for a custom home audio/video system or rack-mount environment. Equipped with 12 outlets [six receptacles] and four dedicated 20-amp Ultimate circuits, the Power Director performs AC conditioning, surge and spike protection, non-current limiting, and communication and switching interfaces.

The Power Director is conditioned by PS Audio's exclusive Ultimate Outlet circuitry, which completely eliminates common and differential mode noise, protects equipment from surges and spikes, and reduces the output impedance of AC power from the wall outlet by a factor of three. No power conditioner can make the same claim.

The Power Director is designed to work independently or with PS Audio's Power Producer, the first A/V-ready Uninterruptable Power Supply (UPS) device designed exclusively for the high-end A/V market. The Power Producer, available later in 2002, regenerates AC power into a clean, pure energy stream that helps connected equipment achieve peak performance. It delivers up to 1500 watts of pure sine wave power in the event of a power loss, and provides a series of key power services that include high- and low-level voltage regulation and protection against blackouts, brownouts, power surges and all other types of power interruption.

The Power Director, as the ultimate device for powering a custom system with interconnectivity, performs the switching and network command functions required by today's sophisticated, highly demanding custom home A/V environments. The Power Director is especially unique in enabling installers to preset the input voltage before any protection circuitry is activated, and adjust the delay time before the unit resets itself and powers back up.

The Power Director features four 20-amp precision-wound baluns-highly efficient transformer cores with identical, balanced windings wrapped around each half of a donut-shaped toroid. Wound with extremely heavy gauge pure copper wire and terminated in a network of Class X2 and Class Y2 film capacitors, the baluns lower overall output impedance by a factor of three. Each 20-amp Power Director circuit can be dedicated to a particular class of products, such as digital, video, amplifiers, and the like.

The Power Director is completely modular and upgradeable, and includes one input module and three output module slots on the rear panel. The simple, interchangeable modules allow installers to change the type of AC plug and the voltage received by that plug. The plugs can be PS Audio Power Ports, standard-grade US 110/220 outputs, UK outlets, or a Shuko sockets. Smart circuitry automatically switches internal voltage to accommodate the specific plug or plugs being used.

The board for the Power Director's main input module includes three CATV inputs and CATV outputs for cable and antenna protection, one phone input and two outputs for telephone protection, four slide switches to control the output delay, a 15-amp resettable circuit breaker, a 15-amp IEC input, a 12-volt external trigger input, a PS buss that serves as a communication link for all PS Audio components, and a Panja Crestron interface slot for an off-the-shelf Panja card that allows customers to interface with CE-buss equipped products.

A four-digit LED readout on the front panel displays settings for voltage, wattage and power factor correction. It can be turned off completely in media-room applications. Infrared receivers and transmitters enable the Power Director to be used with highly sophisticated handheld learning remotes as well as hard-wired touch panel systems, such as those by AMX and Crestron.

The Power Director's internal input power supply can accept 90-300 volts with no user switching necessary. The Power Director employs triply redundant AC protection using a microprocessor control as the first line of defense. When the input AC voltage exceeds a pre-set limit, the outputs simply switch off and connected equipment is protected. When the voltage returns to normal, the outputs turn back on, again according to their sequenced instructions.

If the first line of defense fails, a second line of defense kicks in, using PS Audio's proprietary Tranzorber circuitry. In the unlikely event the Tranzorbers are asked to absorb too much power, an internal fuse opens, completely shutting off the outputs protecting connected equipment.

The Power Director can be mounted on a rack, with optional and removable rack mounting ears, and includes a detachable power cord on the front panel for simple rack and cabinet accessibility.

The Power Director is available now at a suggested price of $1,495.

SONY ANNOUNCES ALL HI-SCAN 1080i 2002 PROJECTION TELEVISION LINE-UP

Enhanced Performance Technology, DVI-HDTV Interface and Memory Stick Media Slot Offer Picture Perfect Solution for Home Theater Enthusiasts

PARK RIDGE, N.J.,ony Electronics today unveiled its new collection of all Hi-Scan 1080i™ widescreen, HDTV-monitor rear projection televisions for 2002.

Celebrating its 20th anniversary in the rear-projection TV category, Sony's expanded large screen television line-up includes seven 16:9 widescreen rear-projection sets. Each set features Sony's Hi-Scan 1080i chassis and incorporates a Digital Visual Interface (DVI-HDTV) connection that enables copy-protected, high-definition video content to be delivered to the TV from a DVI/HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection) compatible set-top box.

Several new models also include Sony's latest Digital Reality Creation™ MultiFunction V1 circuitry, which allows the viewer to customize the DRC™ feature. Additionally, these models incorporate a Memory Stick® media slot for fast, easy access to JPEG images taken with compatible digital still cameras and camcorders.

"The breadth of our all digital projection TV line-up with seven new widescreen models clearly demonstrates Sony's leadership in the industry," said Tim Alessi, director of marketing for Sony Electronics' Visual Network Products Company. "These advanced televisions are loaded with innovative performance enhancing features that result in fantastic images. Whether you're watching a sit-com, a DVD-Video, an HD broadcast or even vacation pictures, these new sets will amaze and delight you."

New WV-series with Next Generation Proprietary Feature Package

Reinforcing Sony's leadership in television technology, the 2002 Hi-Scan widescreen projection sets incorporate several technical and design advancements. Featuring a striking, new "floating screen" design with a metallic silver wraparound speaker base, the new WV-series include these proprietary innovations:

Digital Reality Creation MultiFunction V1, which gives viewers complete control over the level of DRC circuitry depending on quality of input signal, thereby displaying clear, stable images, no matter what the video source;

HD MicroFocus™ CRT with its increased beam strength and 30-percent smaller spot size than conventional CRTs, resulting in a brighter and sharper image;

HD Archromatic MicroFocus lens system, which provides clearer focus, resulting in breathtaking picture quality, and;

Exclusive to the WV700 series, the new Uniform Brightness Screen™ technology, which provides a wider vertical viewing angle and consistent horizontal brightness from top to bottom, resulting in brilliant picture images that can be seen from any angle.

These new widescreen models also include such outstanding performance features as CineMotion™ reverse 3:2 pulldown circuitry for optimum film-based video source display, Multi-Image Driver-X with Scrolling Channel Index™ system, Flexible Twin- View™ 2-tuner picture-and-picture, and powerful SRS TruSurround™ sound.

In addition, with two HD component video inputs (Y/PB/PR), the new Hi-Scan televisions offer the highest quality connections to DVD players, as well as outstanding performance with HD receiver/decoders.

Industry's First Memory Stick Media Compatible Televisions

Sony's new WV-series features a Memory Stick media slot for viewing favorite JPEG images converted to dynamic 1080i high-definition quality. With choice of full screen, index, or slide show, this new feature provides a fast, easy way to showcase images taken with Memory Stick media enabled digital still cameras and camcorders.

"It's the best thing to happen to a television since the remote control," Alessi said. "A recent report by Info Trends Research Group indicated that consumers are discovering the TV is a friendly, easy alternative for viewing and sharing photos. The report was also very bullish on the TV becoming the center of consumer photography applications in some homes over the next five years."

"Equipping our new projection sets with Memory Stick feature advances this trend by connecting two different medium into one easy solution."

Memory Stick media is a widely adopted removable digital storage format. There are currently more than 300 different Memory Stick media compatible products available with format support from 214 companies.

Sony's new KP-57WV600 and KP-65WV600 rear-projection televisions will be available in August for about $3,700 and $4,200, respectively.

Also available in August, the step-up models KP-57WV700 and KP-65WV700 models incorporating the double Anti-Reflective contrast screen and Uniform Brightness Screen technology will sell for about $4,200 and $4,700, respectively.

New Entry Level Hi-Scan Models Broaden Widescreen Lineup

The WS-series, available in 51-, 57-, and 65-inch widescreen models, will incorporate many of the high-performance step-up features found on the WV-series. Each set will include the DRC MultiFunction circuitry, a DVI-HDTV interface, HD Microfocus CRT, HD Microfocus lens system, HD Detailer™ wide band video amp, MID™-X circuitry and TruSurround sound.

The KP-51WS500, KP-57WS500 and KP-65WS500 models will be available in October for around $2,700, $3,200 and $3,700, respectively.

Sony will continue to market 4:3 Hi-Scan rear-projection sets, including the KP-43HT20, KP-53HS30 and KP-61HS30 models, adding up to a 10-unit all Hi-Scan 1080i line for 2002.

2003 TOYOTA COROLLA: THE NEW VALUE STANDARD IN COMPACT SEDANS

(MONTREAL) - Completely redesigned for 2003, the Toyota Corolla provides more room, more power, more comfort and more safety on an all-new platform. This unbeatable combination brings a whole new standard of excellence to what is already the best-selling passenger car in the world. Along with a remarkable decrease in price, the 2003 Toyota Corolla sets a new benchmark for value in the competitive compact sedan segment.

With the all-new Toyota Matrix, which uses the same basic platform to create a dramatically different vehicle, the Corolla is part of a double play to re-establish Toyota dominance in a class crowded with stylish and well-equipped vehicles at surprisingly low prices. Consistent with engineering and manufacturing improvements, the starting price of the 2003 Corolla CE model is $475 less than the 2002 model, $15,290 versus $15,765.

"Since its introduction in 1966, Corolla has represented the quality, reliability, durability and value that defines Toyota engineering", said Toyota Motor Corporation Chief Engineer of Corolla Takeshi Yoshida. "What became clear as we began the process of redesigning, however, was that the goalposts have moved considerably. To reclaim class leadership, the new Corolla sedan meets an exacting new set of criteria in both style and substance. The result is an affordable car to satisfy the highest standards of current owners as well as a whole new generation of demanding drivers."

The changes to Corolla began with the development strategy itself. The process, which Yoshida calls oobeya, or "big, open office," is comparable to open engineering, but even more comprehensive. Every element of the design process was pulled forward so that all aspects of vehicle development could be discussed and analyzed at once. Incorporating the knowledge and experience of the entire development team early in the process created a more accurate blueprint of the final vehicle. The results included zero design changes from the final blueprints, fewer pre-production prototypes and reduced development costs - a saving that was passed along to customers in the form of added value.

"For North Americans, creation of the all new Corolla has added significance because this car has been designed specifically with the North American market in mind," said Tony Wearing, Group Vice President in charge of Vehicle Sales and Marketing of Toyota Canada Inc. (TCI). "This continent now accounts for the largest percentage of Toyota's total sales volume. Therefore the decision was made to strongly bias Corolla development to North American needs and tastes. This is a true world platform, with minor changes made to reflect regional tastes for the European and Asian markets. But the starting point in each case is a vehicle developed expressly for Corolla's biggest fans - the drivers of North America."

That this is a very different Corolla is apparent at first glance. The new style is more upscale and more muscular than its predecessor. Longer, wider and taller, the designers also moved the A-pillars forward and the C-pillars rearward to create more interior space. Outside, this emphasizes the substantial presence of the silhouette.

Inside, these design changes create a new quality of roominess as well as ease of access. Passengers sit farther apart with more hip and headroom. The hip-point is higher, making entries and exits easier, and there is unhindered visibility in all directions. (more)

Meridian Unveils World's Most Sophisticated Optical Disc Playback System
DVD - Audio, Digital Multi Channel Smart Link, DSP Power Boost, DVD Movies in 96/24 resolution, 800 series Reference Components' Technology Enhancements

Meridian Audio, Ltd., the British audio manufacturer that leads the world in refining digital audio technologies for music and home- theater systems, have long been recognized for their industry's "reference standard" 800 Series CD/DVD playback system. Now the U.K. manufacturer has annou nced important upgrades to Version 3 of the 800 Player and 861 Reference Surround Controller .

These V ersion 3 models usher in a new era of surround performance for music and film reproduction alike.

A major enhancement is the addition of MHR Smart Link , a digital multichannel connection which directly couples the 800 Player to the 861 Reference Surround Controller and to Meridian 's family of DSP loudspeakers.

The MHR Smart Link uses proprietary encryption and signaling technology and is the first system to be officially sanctioned for DVD - Audio content protection. For the first time, the full resolution of multichannel audio from DVD - Audio recordings (as well as those from CD and DVD - Video) can be losslessly transferred in the digital domain from player, to surround controller, to loudspeaker.

The MHR Smart Link has profound ramifications for the system. By passing digitally the full bandwidth and resolution of the original recording to the 861 Reference Surround Controller, it is able to offer the highest possible sound quality on both its exquisite studio - grade analogue outputs (for conventional, analog - domain amplifiers and speakers), or on individual MHR - capable digital outputs (for the multiple DSP speakers of a Meridian Digital Theater).

Importantly, by passing the signals at full resolution between 800 and 861, the system can provide perfect bass management for all sources.

The MHR Smart Link does much more than provide perfect information transfer; i t also carries important
additional information from the 800 Player Surround Controller . By informing the Controller the 861 can automatically select optimum DSP modes and settings for movies for stereo sources and for multichannel sources. This means that, with no intervention from the user, the 861 can provide optimum Dolby Digital or DTS on a movie, PCM from a music video and of course multichannel or stereo from DVD - Audio.

The comprehensive setup options so that important benefits: First by lifting the Dolby Digital decoding task from the 861, it is free to apply its considerable signal processing power to optimize resolution. Second, the extensive DSP power in 800 can be used to provide upsampling and esolution enhancement for all sources including CD and DVD - Video.

Until you have experienced it, it is hard to anticipate just how very substantial ly Meridian's proprietary upsampling can improve movie sound! The resolution - enhancement offered by the 800 Player can upscale the audio from any disc ( including DVD - Audio ) and send it, via Meridian's proprietary link, to the
861 for further processing upsampling, bass management and upscaling for playback and ten speakers.

More Choice and Control Over TV Programs with Bell ExpressVu's New Personal Video Recorder

TORONTO, ON - August 8, 2001 -- Bell ExpressVu, the leader in digital home entertainment, today announced the launch of Canada's first Personal Video Recorder (PVR). The PVR's capabilities will fundamentally change the way Canadians enjoy television by giving viewers the ultimate choice, control and power to select what they want to watch, when they want to watch it.

Bell ExpressVu's Model 5100 PVR is the first integrated digital satellite receiver that features an easy-to-use on-screen programming guide capable of pausing real-time television programs and tapelessly records up to 30 hours of content on a 40-gigabyte hard drive. Bell ExpressVu's customers can now manage their valuable leisure time by using the PVR's convenient and flexible options for their program viewing.

"Imagine never missing a touch down, season finale or an episode of your favourite program," said David McLennan, President and COO, Bell ExpressVu."For the first time, our PVR makes this a reality. It is great news for consumers who will now have the convenience of selecting and customizing their personal television viewing schedule."

The Bell ExpressVu PVR takes television viewing to the next level. By using the auto-recording feature Canadian viewers have the power to pause real-time programming when they want. With auto-recording, viewers never have to miss another television moment. Once the live program is paused, it is recorded to a soft buffer on the PVR. When the viewer returns, he or she can simply play the program from the point of interruption or choose to return to the "live" program.

For busy individuals, catching their favourite television program is often a challenge. The Bell ExpressVu PVR enables on-the-go consumers to maximize their quality television viewing time. Through the easy-to-use PVR remote control and interactive program guide, users can search and select programs using on-demand recording to automatically record on the PVR's hard drive. Playing back recorded programs is simple and allows viewers to watch their favourite shows when it is convenient, fast-forwarding and rewinding programs as they wish.

Other enhanced features of the Bell ExpressVu Model 5100 PVR include: an advanced programming guide that allows consumers to browse available programs by themes such as movies, sports, news/business, family/children, education, series/specials, music/arts and religious; favourite channel lists that can be customized for easy program selection; and an easy access info button on the remote that instantly shows program information, such as start time, end time and a brief description about the program. The Model 5100 PVR also features an advanced lock system that allows application of parental and system locks by program rating, channel or adult content.

The Bell ExpressVu PVR broadcasts from Nimiq 1, Canada's first high-powered Direct Broadcast Satellite. The signal is customized, based on the programming or information services chosen by Bell ExpressVu's customers. They will receive the signal on the Bell ExpressVu 18-inch (45 cm) dish antenna, the smallest dish size available in Canada. The Bell ExpressVu PVR uses tested and proprietary technology adapted from EchoStar Communications Corporation, a global leader in Direct Broadcast Satellite (DBS) television products and services.

The PVR from Bell ExpressVu will be available nationally from authorized Bell ExpressVu dealers and Bell World stores in September 2001. The Bell ExpressVu Model 5100 PVR complete system with receiver, remote and dish will retail for only $699.00 and the package is eligible for a $100.00 programming credit making the net cost of the system $599.00.

Bell ExpressVu is also introducing a new entry-level receiver, the Model 3100 receiver that includes many of the features available on the Model 5100. The Model 3100 is a digital satellite receiver with advanced features that include interactive television programming such as Instant Weather, an enhanced on-screen programming guide with a Picture-in-Guide display option, and enhanced parental security features.