Panasonic Announces New Lumix Cameras; Way More Interesting Than CES 2011 Announcement [Archive]

Lee Yuan Sheng

01-26-2011, 08:30 PM

<img src="http://images.thoughtsmedia.com/resizer/thumbs/size/600/dht/auto/1296060173.usr15670.jpg" />Panasonic has more cameras up it sleeves, and it makes me wonder why they bothered with <a href="http://www.digitalhomethoughts.com/news/show/101949/panasonic-announces-updated-fh-and-fp-series-cameras-and-new-s-series-budget-shooters.html" target="_blank">CES 2011</a> in the first place: These are way more interesting. First up we have the ZS10 (TZ20 in Europe/Asia, and pictured above) and ZS8 (TZ18 in Europe/Asia). These continue the compact superzoom lineup Panasonic started with the TZ1. Both cameras have the same stabilised 16x 24-384mm equivalent f/3.8-5.8 zoom lens, but are quite different in other areas. The ZS8 uses a 14 megapixel CCD, capable of 720p videos in MJPEG mode, a 3" QVGA screen, and the same tagging feature for Facebook and YouTube that came with the CES 2011 cameras. The ZS10 has a 14 megapixel CMOS sensor with 1080p videos in AVCHD, GPS, a 3" touchscreen, and a 10 FPS high-speed mode.The TS3 (aka FT3 in Europe/Asia) is a refresh in Panasonic's rugged line. It features a stabilised 4.6x 28-128mm equivalent f/3.3-5.9 zoom lens, 12 megapixel CCD, 2.7" QVGA LCD, 1080i video mode, waterproof and shockproof capability, and GPS with a compass, altimeter and a barometer. Truly for the more adventure-minded. I'm curious to know how well the barometer and altimeter works.Finally there's the slim FX78, which replaces the FX75 (and maybe the FX700, both cameras are so similar). This is basically a premium compact, with a stabilised 5x 24-120mm f/2.5-5.9 zoom lens, 3.5" QVGA (time to step it up Panasonic) touchscreen, 1080i video mode, and claimed better AF compared to its predecessor. Oh, and there are some fancy retouching options to make one look better. It is nice to know that with these more advanced models, Panasonic has not jumped onto the 16 megapixel bandwagon yet. Hopefully a consumer electronics giant like them can help stem the crazy megapixel race. Cameras are expected to be available in March; no word on pricing. More photos and full press release after the break.<MORE /><img src="http://images.thoughtsmedia.com/resizer/thumbs/size/600/dht/auto/1296062935.usr15670.jpg" />Lumix DMC-ZS8<img src="http://images.thoughtsmedia.com/resizer/thumbs/size/600/dht/auto/1296063454.usr15670.jpg" />Lumix DMC-TS3<img src="http://images.thoughtsmedia.com/resizer/thumbs/size/600/dht/auto/1296063464.usr15670.jpg" />Lumix DMC-FX78 PANASONIC’S NEWEST RUGGED LUMIX DIGITAL CAMERA, COMPLETE WITH GPS & COMPASS IS PERFECT FOR CAPTURING STUNNING PHOTOS AND HD VIDEOS DURING OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES New LUMIX TS3 is Waterproof*1, Shockproof*2, Freezeproof, Dustproof*1, and Adds Full-HD Video Recording, a New 3D Photo Mode & Easy Facebook and YouTube Uploads SECAUCUS, NJ (January 25, 2011) – Panasonic today introduces the LUMIX DMC-TS3, specifically designed for active users who want to capture high-quality photos and 1920 x 1080 full-High Definition videos, incorporating a powerful rugged design and new outdoor-friendly features, such as a built-in GPS function, a compass, altimeter and barometer.  The new 12.1-megapixel LUMIX TS3 further strengthens its toughness, when compared to its LUMIX TS2 predecessor,  and is now waterproof to approximately 40 feet (12m)*1; shockproof to approximately 6.6 feet (2m) *2; freezeproof to 14ºF (-10 degrees C); and dustproof*1. The Panasonic LUMIX TS3 also features the new Panasonic 3D Photo mode, which produces a realistic 3D photo by taking 20 consecutive photos and overlays the two best to create a 3D image that can then be played on a Panasonic VIERA 3D HDTV. The format of 3D images is compatible with MPO, and can also be played back on other MPO-compatible equipment such as a televisions, digital photo frames and printers.  Panasonic also adds the LUMIX Image Uploader, for seamless and instant sharing via Facebook (for digital photos) or YouTube (for videos). Users can checkmark the photo or video files they want to share, connect it to a PC with the included USB cable or by inserting the SD Memory Card directly into the PC’s SD Card slot, and then the uploading automatically launches with an easy-to-follow menu option. “The LUMIX TS3 is Panasonic’s ‘take anywhere’ digital camera – whether it is for carefree, everyday shooting with its easy-to-use features, high-quality lens and video capabilities, or for the active user who will appreciate the rugged design in any season – for activities such as hiking, skiing, camping, diving, snorkeling,” said David Briganti, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “Last year’s LUMIX TS2 was a highly-regarded rugged camera and with the TS3, we just built on its success with new features, like GPS, a compass, altimeter and barometer, making this the ultimate camera for the outdoor user.” The Panasonic LUMIX TS3 features a 28mm wide-angle LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lens, complete with a folded optics design. With an optical zoom up to 4.6x, the LUMIX TS3 works even while shooting video – giving the user the flexibility for a variety of different scenes – especially underwater, where movement is often restricted and the angle of view becomes important for composing shots.  Thanks to the newly incorporated Intelligent Resolution technology, the Intelligent Zoom is available and extends the zoom to 6x equivalent. Empowered by a newly developed 12.1-megapixel Hi-Speed CCD sensor, the LUMIX TS3 is compatible with high-speed, large-capacity signal processing required for 1920 x 1080 full-HD AVCHD video recording and high speed continuous shooting. The advanced image processor, the Venus Engine FHD, powers Panasonic’s Intelligent Resolution and the Sonic Speed AF, allows for a shutter release time lag as short as approximately 0.005 second.Beyond full-HD video recording capabilities, LUMIX TS3 excels in shooting videos with a Dolby® Digital Creator so audio quality is also high.  The built-in LED light greatly supports shooting in dark situations. The LUMIX TS3 also features a 2.7-inch, 230,000-dot Intelligent LCD screen with wide-viewing angle and Anti-Reflection coating. Panasonic’s iA Mode, a suite of technologies that engage automatically, has evolved for more powerful image stabilization while video recording and taking still photos with Active Mode which boosts POWER OIS to excel in suppressing blur when recording videos at wide angle while walking. Other features of iA include: POWER OIS, Face Recognition, Face Detection, AF Tracking, Intelligent ISO Control, Intelligent Scene Selector and Intelligent Exposure. With iA, taking beautiful photos is possible for users at any skill level. In addition, the Intelligent Resolution technology is always activated in the iA mode, which helps produce even clearer photos by precisely performing signal processing pixel by pixel to help ensure clear and sharp images. The newly-integrated GPS function, shows the name of the Country/Region, State/Prov./County, County/Township, City/Town/Village and Landmark by using the internal data to give users details on where the photos or videos were taken.  The area information covers 203 countries or regions for global users. Plus, more than 1,000,000 landmarks over 78 countries or regions are in the database. Using the included software PHOTOfunSTUDIO 6.1 HD Lite Edition, photos and videos can be searched by location and names. The LUMIX TS3 also features an internal clock that automatically adjusts to the local time when GPS is enabled – a handy feature for travelers. The LUMIX TS3 will be available in March 2011 and pricing will be announced approximately 30 days prior to shipping date. The LUMIX TS3 will be available in red, orange, silver, and blue. For more on these Panasonic LUMIX models, please visit <a href="http://www.panasonic.com/lumix" target="_blank">www.panasonic.com/lumix</a>. *1 Waterproof/dustproof performance complies with the “IPX8” and “IP6X” ratings. Provided the care and maintenance guidelines described in this document are strictly followed, this camera can operate underwater, to a depth not exceeding 12 m for a time not exceeding 60 minutes. This does not guarantee no destruction, no malfunction, or waterproofing in all conditions.*2 Anti-shock performance complies with “MIL-STD 810F Method 516.5-Shock” of the U.S. Defense Department, which specifies performing drop tests from a height of 122 cm, at 26 orientations (8 corners, 12 ridges, 6 faces) using 5 sets of devices, and passing the 26 orientation drops within 5 devices. (If failure occurs during the test, a new set is used to pass the drop orientation test within a total of 5 devices). The camera has cleared a drop test from a height of 2 m onto 3 cm thick plywood. In most cases this camera should not sustain any damage if dropped from a height not exceeding 2 m. This drop test was passed. (Disregarding appearance change such as loss of paint or distortion of the part where drop impact is applied). This does not guarantee no destruction, no malfunction, or waterproofing in all conditions. Facebook and the Facebook logo are registered trademarks or trademarks of Facebook, Inc.YouTube is a trademark of Google Inc.Leica is a registered trademark of Leica Microsystems IR GmbH.The LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lenses are manufactured using measurement instruments and quality assurance systems that have been certified by Leica Camera AG based on the company's quality standards.The "AVCHD" is a high definition digital video recording / playback format jointly established by Panasonic Corporation and Sony Corporation and "AVCHD" logos are trademarks of the companies.Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.GPS may not work in China or in the border regions of countries neighboring China.Design and specifications are subject to change without notice. About Panasonic Consumer Electronics CompanyBased in Secaucus, N.J., Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company, is a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation (NYSE: PC) and the hub of Panasonic's U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations.  Panasonic is pledged to practice prudent, sustainable use of the earth's natural resources and protect our environment through the company’s <a href="http://www.panasonic.com/environmental/ecoideas.asp" target="_blank">Eco Ideas</a> programs. Company information for journalists is available at <a href="http://www.panasonic.com/pressroom" target="_blank">www.panasonic.com/pressroom</a>. # # # PANASONIC INTRODUCES STYLISH AND ULTRA-COMPACT LUMIX FX78 DIGITAL CAMERA WITH FULL-HD VIDEO CAPABILITIES The LUMIX FX78 Features a F2.5 Super-Bright 24mm Ultra-Wide-Angle Leica Lens for Superb Photo and Video Quality and a Large 3.5-inch Smart Touch LCD for Intuitive Operation SECAUCUS, NJ (January 25, 2011) – Panasonic today expands its LUMIX FX-Series of stylish and compact digital cameras, with the LUMIX FX78, which features a new Smart Touch operation on the large 3.5-inch 16:9 aspect LCD, allowing for intuitive touch operation, including Touch AF, Touch Zoom, Touch Shutter, and Touch Playback. The LUMIX FX78 also incorporates a new LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMARIT, 24mm ultra-wide angle lens that has a 5x optical zoom with F2.5 aperture.  The 24mm wide-angle lens offers approximately 213% larger viewing space when compared to a traditional 35mm camera.  This high-performing lens has been designed to fit the slim body while still offering exceptional photo and video quality. With its wide and bright lens, the LUMIX FX78 excels when shooting dynamic landscapes and in low-lit situations. The LUMIX FX78’s Smart Touch Screen allows for the Auto Focus (AF) to be set by simply touching the subject on the LCD and a touch can even release the shutter. Once locked on the subject, the LUMIX FX78 tracks the subject with the AF tracking function even if it moves. With the Intelligent Scene Selector in the iA mode, the FX78 automatically switches to the appropriate mode according to the subject touched. For example, a touch on a human face switches to the portrait mode, and a touch on the background or a landscape changes to the Scenery mode, while a touch on the subject close in the foreground changes to Macro mode. All menu settings are now available with touch control. The touch-screen operation excels not only for shooting, but also in playback, allowing the user to drag the images across the screen with a finger and browse the collection of photos as though flipping the pages of the book. “With its super-bright and wide-angle lens, the LUMIX FX78 is a high-performing digital camera that excels in image quality, producing exceptional full-HD videos and still photos,” said David Briganti, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “With the new touch-screen operation, the FX78 is intuitive to use and allows the user to take a photo, track a subject and even touch-up a face with just the touch of the finger.” The LUMIX FX78 also features the Panasonic 3D Photo mode, which produces a realistic 3D photo by taking 20 consecutive photos and overlaying the two best to create a 3D  image that can then be played on a Panasonic VIERA 3D HDTV. The format of 3D images is compatible with MPO, and can also be played back on other MPO-compatible equipment such as a televisions, digital photo frames and printers.  Panasonic also adds the LUMIX Image Uploader, for seamless and instant sharing via Facebook (for digital photos) or YouTube (for videos). Users can checkmark the photo or video files they want to share, connect the camera to a PC with the included USB cable or by inserting the SD Memory Card directly into the PC’s SD Card slot, and then the uploading automatically launches with an easy-to-follow menu option. Incorporating a newly developed 12.1-megapixel Hi-Speed CCD sensor, the DMC-LUMIX FX78 is compatible with high-speed, large-capacity signal processing required for 1920 x 1080 full-HD video recording in AVCHD and high speed continuous shooting. The AVCHD format almost doubles the recording time in HD quality, when compared with the conventional Motion JPEG. The LUMIX FX78 also boasts Dolby Dolby® Digital Creator to record high quality audio. The advanced image processing LSI, the Venus Engine FHD, assures high picture quality in both photo and movie recording. It also incorporates the Intelligent Resolution technology to perform the optimum signal processing to give the entire image outstandingly natural clearness with fine details. The LUMIX FX78’s 5x optical zoom is available when shooting video.  Thanks to the Intelligent Resolution technology, the Intelligent Zoom is available with the LUMIX FX78 which extends the zoom ratio by approximately 1.3x maintaining the picture quality and extending it to a 6.5x zoom equivalent. The Sonic Speed AF, which gains approximately 33% higher speed compared with its predecessor DMC-FX75, has a quick shutter release time lag as short as approximately 0.005 second. The LUMIX FX78 is not only a high-performing digital camera when it concerns image quality, but it also includes a host of entertaining features that brings photography to a new level of fun with features such as Art Retouch and Beauty Retouch. The Art Retouch function lets the user change the original photo in brightness and color saturation. The Beauty Retouch mode allows users to digitally touch-up faces by applying different effects, such as skin texture, lifting up the face and whitening of teeth. In addition, the Make-up mode gives the user the option to change the face’s complexion, lips, cheeks or eye-shadow coloring. Panasonic’s iA Mode, a suite of technologies that engage automatically, has evolved for more powerful image stabilization while video recording and taking still photos with Active Mode which boosts MEGA OIS to excel in suppressing blur when recording videos at wide angle while walking. Other features of iA include: Motion Deblur, MEGA OIS, Face Recognition, Face Detection, AF Tracking, Intelligent ISO Control, Intelligent Scene Selector and Intelligent Exposure. With iA, taking beautiful photos is possible for users at any level. In addition, the Intelligent Resolution technology is always activated in the iA mode, which helps produce even clearer photos by precisely performing signal processing pixel by pixel to help ensure clear and sharp images. The LUMIX FX78 will be available in March 2011 in black, gold and white models and pricing will be announced approximately 30 days prior to shipping date. For more on these Panasonic LUMIX models, please visit <a href="http://www.panasonic.com/lumix" target="_blank">www.panasonic.com/lumix</a>. Facebook and the Facebook logo are registered trademarks or trademarks of Facebook, Inc.YouTube is a trademark of Google Inc.Leica is a registered trademark of Leica Microsystems IR GmbH.The LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lenses are manufactured using measurement instruments and quality assurance systems that have been certified by Leica Camera AG based on the company's quality standards.The "AVCHD" is a high definition digital video recording / playback format jointly established by Panasonic Corporation and Sony Corporation and "AVCHD" logos are trademarks of the companies.Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.Design and specifications are subject to change without notice. About Panasonic Consumer Electronics CompanyBased in Secaucus, N.J., Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company, is a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation (NYSE: PC) and the hub of Panasonic's U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations.  Panasonic is pledged to practice prudent, sustainable use of the earth's natural resources and protect our environment through the company’s <a href="http://www.panasonic.com/environmental/ecoideas.asp" target="_blank">Eco Ideas</a> programs. Company information for journalists is available at <a href="http://www.panasonic.com/pressroom" target="_blank">www.panasonic.com/pressroom</a>. # # # PANASONIC EXPANDS ITS POPULAR ZS-SERIES OF DIGITAL CAMERAS WITH ADDITIONAL ADVANCED FEATURES INCLUDING INTUITIVE TOUCH SCREEN CONTROL AND FULL HD VIDEO Panasonic LUMIX ZS10 Features a 24mm Ultra-Wide-Angle Leica Lens and a Powerful 16x Optical Zoom, 3D Photo Mode and Built-In GPS Functions SECAUCUS, NJ (January 25, 2011) – Panasonic today introduced the LUMIX DMC-ZS10 as the newest member of its acclaimed LUMIX ZS-Series of digital cameras that has won worldwide popularity for its versatile lens from ultra wide-angle to long zoom.  The LUMIX ZS10 continues its versatility with a 24mm ultra-wide-angle and powerful 16x optical zoom LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lens – and it features full-High Definition 1920x1080 video recording capability, a newly-adopted large 3.0-inch, 460,000-dot Smart Touch Intelligent LCD – which allows for Touch Zoom, Touch Auto Focus (AF), Touch Shutter, and Touch Playback.  The LUMIX ZS10 also features a built-in GPS (Global Positioning System) function allowing geotagged images to be pinpointed via online maps and easily shared with friends and families. “With the introduction of the LUMIX ZS10, Panasonic expects to continue to lead the market in long zoom digital cameras, as this very advanced digital camera not only offers a 16x optical zoom, but with an even wider 24mm Leica lens, this is a truly robust digital camera for both still photos and full HD 1080 videos,” said David Briganti, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “With new features such as touch-screen operation and even a 3D photo mode, Panasonic continues to pack the ZS10 with innovative features for capturing high-quality photos and videos, which can be easily shared with family and friends using the new LUMIX Image Uploader feature.” The Panasonic LUMIX ZS10 also features the new Panasonic 3D Photo mode, which produces a realistic 3D photo by taking 20 consecutive photos and overlaying the two best images which provide a 3D image that can then be played on a Panasonic VIERA 3D HDTV. The format of the 3D image is compatible with MPO, and can also be played back on other MPO-compatible equipment such as a televisions, digital photo frame and printers.  Panasonic also adds the LUMIX Image Uploader for seamless and instant sharing via Facebook (for digital photos) or YouTube (for videos). Users can checkmark the photo or video files they want to share, connect it to a PC with the included USB cable or by inserting the SD Memory Card directly into the PC’s SD Card slot, and then the uploading automatically launches with an easy-to-follow menu option. Using the touch-screen, once locked on the subject, the LUMIX ZS10 tracks the subject with the AF tracking function even if it moves. With the Intelligent Scene Selector in the iA mode, the LUMIX ZS10 automatically switches to the appropriate mode according to the subject touched. For example, a touch on a human face switches to the portrait mode and a touch on the background or a landscape changes to the Scenery mode, while a touch on the subject close in the foreground changes to Macro mode. All menu settings are now available with touch control. The touch-screen operation excels not only for shooting, but also in playback, allowing the user to drag the images across the screen with a finger and browse the collection of photos as though flipping the pages of a book. Newly adopted 14.1-megapixel MOS sensor and the advanced image processor Venus Engine FHD feature high speed, high sensitivity image recording to realize 1920x1080 full-HD movie recording and high speed burst shooting in high picture quality. It also compiles the Intelligent Resolution technology to perform optimum signal processing to give the entire image outstandingly natural clearness with fine details. The powerful 16x optical zoom – available while shooting videos – increases its power to 21x equivalent with the Intelligent Zoom function, taking advantage of Intelligent Resolution technology. The Sonic Speed AF also boasts approximately 49% higher speed compared to its LUMIX ZS7 predecessor. The LUMIX ZS10 shoots 10 fps in 14-megapixel full resolution with mechanical shutter and 5 fps with continuous AF. Even higher speed burst shooting is available with LUMIX ZS10 if the electronic shutter is used - 60 fps in 3.5-megapixel*1. The LUMIX ZS10 is an advanced photographic tool for recording not only great photos but also beautiful full-HD movies. In addition to Motion JPEG images, the LUMIX ZS10 can record high-resolution full-HD 1920x1080 60i videos in AVCHD (MPEG-4 / H.264)* format. The high frame rate of 60i excels in recording moving subjects with outstanding smoothness. The videos also come with the high-quality stereo sound of Dolby® Digital Stereo Creator, to offer highly realistic sound. Panasonic’s iA Mode, a suite of technologies that engage automatically, has evolved for more powerful image stabilization while video recording and taking still photos with Active Mode which boosts POWER OIS to excel in suppressing blur when recording videos at wide angle while walking. New iA features include the Intelligent Handheld Nightshot, which creates a beautiful night scenery with illumination by layering the images shot consecutively. Furthermore, the Intelligent Burst Shooting automatically sets the frame rate of burst shooting according to the subject’s movement – whether it moves fast or slow – utilizing the mechanism of Intelligent ISO Control.  Other features of iA include: Motion Deblur, POWER OIS, Face Recognition, Face Detection, AF Tracking, Intelligent ISO Control, Intelligent Scene Selector and Intelligent Exposure. With iA, taking beautiful photos is possible for users at any skill level. In addition, the Intelligent Resolution technology is always activated in the iA mode, which helps produce even clearer photos by precisely performing signal processing, pixel by pixel, to help ensure clear and sharp images. The LUMIX ZS10 digital camera features a built-in GPS system which tags the location data where the photo was taken with its latitude and longitude automatically in the Exif data. Plus, the LUMIX ZS10 also shows the name of the Country/Region, State/Prov./County, County/Township, City/Town/Village and Landmark by using internal data to give users details on where the photos or videos were taken.  The area information covers 203 countries or regions for global users. Plus, more than 1,000,000 landmarks over 78 countries or regions are in the database. Using the included software PHOTOfunSTUDIO 6.1 HD Lite Edition, photos and videos can be searched by location and names. The LUMIX ZS10 also features an internal clock that automatically adjusts to the local time when GPS is enabled – a handy feature for travelers. The LUMIX DMC-ZS8 was also added to the ZS-Series of cameras and maintains the versatile 24mm ultra-wide angle and powerful 16x optical zoom LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lens. Other features include:<ul><li>iA mode including POWER OIS, Intelligent ISO Control, Intelligent Scene Selector, Face Recognition, Intelligent Exposure</li><li>Venus Engine VI featuring Intelligent Resolution</li><li>720p HD video recording in Motion JPEG</li><li>Large 3.0-inch large 230,000-dot Intelligent LCD</li><li>Manual exposure</li><li>LUMIX Image Uploader</li></ul> The LUMIX ZS10 and ZS8 will be available in March 2011 and pricing will be announced approximately 30 days prior to shipping date. The LUMIX ZS10 will be available in black, red, blue, silver, and brown; while the LUMIX ZS8 will be available in black and silver. For more on these Panasonic LUMIX models, please visit <a href="http://www.panasonic.com/lumix" target="_blank">www.panasonic.com/lumix</a>. * 1 In the high speed burst shooting at 60 fps, the picture size is 2.5-megapixel(4:3), 3-megapixel(3:2), 3.5-megapixel(16:9), 2-megapixel(1:1). Facebook and the Facebook logo are registered trademarks or trademarks of Facebook, Inc.YouTube is a trademark of Google Inc.Leica is a registered trademark of Leica Microsystems IR GmbH.The LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lenses are manufactured using measurement instruments and quality assurance systems that have been certified by Leica Camera AG based on the company's quality standards.The "AVCHD" is a high definition digital video recording / playback format jointly established by Panasonic Corporation and Sony Corporation and "AVCHD" logos are trademarks of the companies.Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.GPS may not work in China or in the border regions of countries neighboring China.Design and specifications are subject to change without notice. About Panasonic Consumer Electronics CompanyBased in Secaucus, N.J., Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company, is a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation (NYSE: PC) and the hub of Panasonic's U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations.  Panasonic is pledged to practice prudent, sustainable use of the earth's natural resources and protect our environment through the company’s <a href="http://www.panasonic.com/environmental/ecoideas.asp" target="_blank">Eco Ideas</a> programs. Company information for journalists is available at <a href="http://www.panasonic.com/pressroom" target="_blank">www.panasonic.com/pressroom</a>.