NEWS - Thursday, June 27, 2002
RCA VPORT, here’s the scoop...
Question: What is the Exclusive RCA VPORT™? A. The RCA VPORT™ is a unique jack which simplifies the connection of Microsoft’s Xbox™ video game console. It also functions as a second component video input. The first shipments to retail have started for a new line of RCA televisions designed to enhance the playing experience on the Xbox video game system from Microsoft. Under a two-year exclusive arrangement, Thomson is introducing a line of 11 analog TV sets that incorporate the innovative RCA VPORT connection. The VPORT enables the televisions to deliver dramatically improved picture detail for Xbox functions and will be easily identified by the "Xbox Ready" logo on the front of the TV. 32-inch and 36-inch RCA VPORT-equipped televisions are now available at national retailers. This new connection takes advantage of the Xbox system's ability to output component video signal levels, and feeds the signal through a single connection cable. In addition to an Xbox connection point, the jack also doubles as a second component video input. This allows users to simultaneously connect two devices with component outputs, such as a DVD player and satellite receiver or a DVD player and an Xbox. As an added convenience, VPORT models with the twin-tuner feature (F36TF720, F36718, F32TF720, F32718, F27TF720, F27718) will include a component video cable. The component video cable (model #GP641) and a separate Xbox cable (model #GP650) are also available at a suggested retail price of $29.95. "VPORT allows for a simple-one plug connection to an Xbox to achieve a sharper picture and more powerful gaming experience," commented Vic Theobalds, Worldwide Value TV Product Planning Manager, Thomson. "In game playing, the focus is on the picture -- with the players requiring a life-like image. Our new line of RCA TVs with VPORT is ideal for viewing the rich graphic details of Xbox games," he added. The product lineup includes three 36-inch, three 32-inch, four 27-inch and one 20-inch model in both flat and non-flat picture tube configurations. All of the sets feature Gemstar Interactive TV GUIDE Plus+ Gold with one-touch record, YPrPb component video inputs and a comprehensive connection package including two sets of stereo A/V inputs with S-Video, one pair of switchable audio outputs and front A/V inputs with select models equipped with front S-Video and/or headphone jack. 36-inch RCA VPORT models include: Model F36TF720 -- (suggested retail price $1,499, available in August) with TruFlat(TM) picture tube, twin-tuner picture-in-picture and digital 3-line comb filter. Model F36718 -- (suggested retail price $1,049, available in July) with twin-tuner picture-in-picture, digital 3-line comb filter, Sound Logic audio leveler. Model F36650 -- (suggested retail price $899, and now available at national retailers) with digital 3-line comb filter, Sound Logic audio leveler. 32-inch RCA VPORT models include: Model F32TF720 -- (suggested retail price $1,049, available in August) with TruFlat picture tube, twin-tuner picture-in-picture, and digital 3-line comb filter. Model F32718 -- (suggested retail price $799, available in July) with twin-tuner picture-in-picture, digital 3-line comb filter, and Sound Logic audio leveler. Model F32650 -- (suggested retail price $649 and now available at national retailers) with a digital 3-line comb filter and Sound Logic audio leveler. 27-inch RCA VPORT models include: Model F27TF720 -- (suggested retail price $649, available in August) has a TruFlat picture tube, twin-tuner picture-in-picture and digital 3-line comb filter. Model F27TF700 -- (suggested retail price $599, available in August) features a TruFlat picture tube, digital three-line comb filter and Sound Logic audio leveler. Model F27718 -- (suggested retail price $499, available in August) includes twin-tuner picture-in-picture, digital 3-line comb filter and Sound Logic audio leveler. Model F27650 -- (suggested retail price $399, available in August) features a digital 3-line comb filter and Sound Logic audio leveler. 20-inch RCA VPORT model: Model F20TF20 -- (suggested retail price $349, available in September) features a TruFlat picture tube, digital 3-line comb filter and Sound Logic audio leveler.Source: http://www.rca.com/