Ready to fight the elements

Oct 24, 2007 14:11 GMT  ·  By

It would seem that there are quite a lot of people out there who simply love to watch their favorite movies out in the wild, regardless of the weather or any other factors they might come across. And this is the reason why the Planar company, through its deluxe Runco brand, launched a special device meant to bring high-end imagery to the great outdoors, namely the WP-42HD plasma display.

Thus, Runco's 42-inch weatherproof WP-42HD utilizes advanced LCD technology and glass with special element-proof bonding to deliver a high-definition widescreen flat-panel monitor ready for the elements. Featuring a 1366 x 768 native resolution, combined with Runco's Vivix internal video processing for artifact-free scaling and very good reproduction of both native film and native video formats (480p, 720p, 1080i), the WP-42HD offers a wide range of options for outdoor installation.

Engineered for maximum durability, the WP-42HD's weatherproof enclosure ensures protection from adverse environmental conditions including temperature, exposure to moisture, dust, oils and intermittent direct water spray. The custom aluminum cabinet is sealed to ensure protection from the elements and features a specially-designed internal ventilation system to provide adequate cooling. However, despite being quite rugged, the device has the same elegant look and styling that characterize all Runco flat panel displays, as it features a high-gloss black bezel incorporated into a stylish enclosure design.

Furthermore, Runco has equipped its WP-42HD with a wide array of custom installation-friendly features. Its wide viewing angle (178 degrees) enhances the viewing experience, while an internal setting allows for optimal operation in colder temperatures (-4 degrees Fahrenheit or -20 degrees Celsius in Winter Mode). Also included are an RS-232 automation interface with discrete on/off, input selection and aspect ratio control and the device provides quite a large number of inputs, including here digital DVI with HDCP, as well as a multimedia RGB/computer input for gaming, internet surfing and other computer activities.

"The Runco WP-42HD is the first product that illustrates the synergy between Planar's engineering and display history and Runco's dedication to superior video," said Scott Hix, vice president and general manager, Planar Systems Inc. Home Theater Business Unit. "From the beginning we said that Runco and its dealers would benefit from Planar Systems' unique capabilities in specialty display engineering. Runco's Climate Portfolio affords its dealers a competitive edge and accelerates Planar Systems' vision of becoming the worldwide leader in specialty video displays, including the outdoor display category."

The Runco Climate Portfolio WP-42HD will hit the shelves in November 2007 for around $8,995, which is quite a hefty price tag, but it's worth it, taking into consideration that it can be used just about anywhere and in just about any conditions.

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