News

New Pioneer device adds touchscreen functionality to plasma display

March 16, 2005

ORLANDO, Fla. - At the Systems Integration Expo and Conference March 10, Pioneer Electronics introduced its PDK-50HW3 touchscreen device designed to add touchscreen capability to Pioneer's 50-inch plasma displays. When the device is used with third-party touchscreen software it can transform most of Pioneer's 50-inch PureVision plasma displays into high resolution touchscreen monitors. The PDK-50HW3 fits around the bezel of the PDP-503CMX and PDP-504CMX 50-inch plasma displays and uses a Pioneer exclusive high-speed infrared scanning system. The touchscreen device needs no calibration and is powered by and communicates with the plasma via a USB connection with no moving parts. Unlike other systems, the device is not an overlay on the plasma display, which can cause image degradation. Instead, it only covers the bezel, leaving users with a bright, clear on-screen image. "Transforming a 50-inch professional plasma display into a 50-inch touch panel display gives users that interactive experience traditionally accomplished with small screen displays," said Jim Krodel, director of professional display products for Pioneer Electronics.