LG lauches a trio of 1080p monitors splattered with ATSC tuners, USB Multilink

By Thomas Ricker

posted January 7th 2009 1:16PM

LG just announced a threesome of LCD monitors using its f-ENGINE image processing chip for those of you using your monitors as makeshift HDTVs. The flagship M237WD (pictured) features a 1080p, 16:9 aspect panel stretching 23-inches with a built-in ATSC tuner, 5ms refresh, 30,000:1 dynamic contrast, a vast array of A/V inputs (2x HDMI, 2x SCART, DVI, and plenty more), and a universal infrared remote control. The LG 53 series is available in 27-, 24-, 23-, and 22-inch models with a 1080p resolution or lesser 20- and 19-inch models. Key specs include a 2ms response, 50,000:1 dynamic contrast, HDMI input, touch panel controls and f-ENGINE processing. Also announced is the latest LG Multilink USB monitor (the 22-inch L226WU-PF) which daisy-chains up to 6 addition monitors over USB. It features a 1,680 x 1,050 rsolution, 5,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio, 2ms response and 16:10 aspect ratio. No word on what the resolution is when pushing data in a 6-up config. No pricing or availability either for that matter. Full press release after the break, images below.

January 7, 2009:LG ELECTRONICS UNVEILS STYLISH 2009 LCD MONITORS,
HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE 1080P RESOLUTION AND 16:9 ASPECT RATIO

Monitors Boast Advanced Connectivity, Wide Range of Sizes

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 7, 2009 – LG Electronics unveiled three new series of liquid crystal display (LCD) computer monitors as the foundation of its expanding information technology (IT) product portfolio. By combining stylish design with new features, including 16:9 aspect ratio, ATSC tuners, Full HD 1080p resolution and multi-screen capability, consumers can now elevate the look and functionality of any home office. The monitors highlight LG's full IT line on display for the first time this week at the 2009 International CES® (Booth #8214, Central Hall, Las Vegas Convention Center).

"Consumers want monitors that fuse smart technologies with sleek design while maximizing available space," said Peter Reiner, senior vice president, marketing and strategy, LG Electronics North America. "LG's new monitor line is completely versatile, allowing consumers to review multiple documents or watch the latest movie in high-definition."

Multi-Tasking Capabilities
The flagship LCD "Full HD" 1080p monitor (M237WD) is perfect for consumers seeking to use their computer monitor as an HDTV. The 23-inch class size* monitor's built-in ATSC tuner enables consumers to watch broadcast digital TV directly on the monitor and frees up valuable space at home or in the office.

Delivering a true multimedia experience, this model includes a widescreen 16:9 aspect ratio and built-in A/V inputs and allows consumers to plug in external devices, such as a Blu-ray disc player or a gaming console.

Like all of LG's monitors, the M237WD features the unique f-ENGINE, a picture-enhancing chip that optimizes brightness and color independently of each other, reducing the washing out of colors normally found when brightness and contrast are adjusted. The chip makes these units perfect for gaming and graphic or video intensive projects. Additional specifications include:

• 5 ms refresh rate
• 30,000:1 Digital Fine Contrast (DFC) ratio
• Sleep Timer
• Teletext
• 4:3 Auto-scaling
• Stereo Audio Speakers
• Universal Infrared Remote Control

LG 53 Series
LG's new 53 Series is available in 27-, 24-, 23-, 22-, 20- and 19-inch class sizes* with Full HD 1080p resolution in 27-, 24-, 23- and 22-inch class* models. It is ideal for consumers who work with graphics-intensive applications such as CAD/AutoCad, or those that work with graphic or video editing in high-definition. The 53 series also features 16:9 aspect ratio screens to eliminate image stretching and provide a crisp, clear image. The glossy black cabinet design makes for a modern addition to any home or office setting. Key products specifications include:

• Cinema Mode: Reduces on-screen contrast and brightness where full-motion video is not present, allowing the end user to focus on the video content being displayed
• Intelligent Sensor: Automatically adjusts the picture based on content displayed and room-lighting conditions
• 2 ms response time
• 50,000:1 Digital Fine Contrast (DFC) ratio
• HDMI input
• Proximity Sensor: Control illuminate when a user's hand nears the panel
• Smart Timer alarm function
• Easy-to-use touch panel controls
• f-ENGINE
• UCC Optimized Picture Window: Provides uniform brightness from corner to corner

Smart Connectivity
LG's 22-inch class size* USB Monitor with Multilink technology (L226WU-PF)
conveniently connects up to six monitors through a universal USB connection. This simple approach allows consumers to display different content or view multiple documents, graphics or spreadsheets at once. The USB monitor's "daisy-chain" connection eliminates cost and hassle of purchasing and installing additional graphics cards. Additional specifications include:

• 1680x1050 resolution
• 5,000:1 Digital Fine Contrast (DFC) ratio
• 2 ms response time
• Height, swivel and tilt adjustable to allow consumers to position multiple monitors for easy viewing
• 16:10 aspect ratio
• f-ENGINE