FramePacking
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Mitsubishi updates 2010 3D-ready HDTVs for full 3D video support
While its older 3DTVs will still absolutely require an adapter, Mitsubishi is rolling out a software update for its 2010 line of 3D-ready HDTVs that will allow them to process additional forms of 3D video supported by HDMI 1.4 devices. The TVs shipped with only support for checkerboard or side-by-side format 3D, while the new update adds top-bottom (ESPN 3D) and frame packing (Blu-ray 3D) support without requiring an adapter passthrough. Owners of 738 and 838 TVs that are hooked to the internet should start seeing the update soon automatically, or it will be available for download from the website. You'll probably still want to grab a starter kit with IR sync and glasses if you want the Samsung-compatible specs, but DLP-link active shutter 3D glasses should work without any additional hardware at all. Update: Mitsubishi informed us the automatic update and the website should go live tomorrow, 11/16.
HDMI 1.4a spec released in full, lays down mandatory 3D format support details
That the HDMI 1.4 spec would need some tweaking to ease compatibility between old upgraded set top boxes delivering 3DTV, Blu-ray 3D, receivers and displays was already established and today the full information has been released to all HDMI Adopters. Firmly implemented are the mandatory formats devices will need to interpret with displays required to support all mandatory formats, repeaters able to pass through all of them, and sources must support at least one. That certainly doesn't stop older HDMI 1.3 labeled equipment from delivering a Full HD 3D experience, as long as they're able to upgrade to compatible signaling. As HDGuru explains, the main potential hangup is in the audio receiver, as older ones without 3D passthrough capability may not be able to interpret 3D signals, and can't be upgraded to interpret it requiring a workaround like Panasonic's upcoming dual HDMI packing Blu-ray player. Whether it's "frame packing" (sequential) in 1080p/24Hz for movies or 720p/60Hz for games, and either side-by-side horizontal at 1080i/60Hz or top-bottom compressed 720p/60Hz and 1080p/24Hz for TV the new updates to the spec just ensure everyone is speaking the same language going forward. We haven't heard of any looming compatibility issues for 3DTV devices but until it gets in someone's home and the cables are plugged in we're sure some will still have doubts.
