CHICAGO, November 27, 2006 – To meet the growing demand for dual-mode applications, Sharp today announces an upgrade to the company's 45-inch professional LCD monitor. The new PN-455RU 45-inch monitor, on display at RSNA 2006, is the first professional monitor that has been designed to operate in both portrait and landscape mode. To ensure reliable operation and backlight life, Sharp has optimized the internal cooling, air flow and backlight system for ideal use in portrait mode.

"Sharp recognizes the growing importance of providing large-format displays for use in both landscape and portrait mode for many different types of applications," said John Becconsall, Director, Professional Display Products, Sharp Commercial Markets Sales and Solutions Group. "This new monitor is designed for extended-use in portrait mode and offers superior image quality and improved compatibility, ensuring highest performance and reliability in a wider range of commercial applications."

The PN-455P monitor with integrated protective acrylic overlay will also be upgraded to the PN-455RUP, adding the option of portrait mode.

The PN-455RU monitor has a full, two-megapixel 1920 x 1080 HD resolution with more than six million pixel elements for exceptionally accurate and precise image reproduction. With a streamlined black bezel, rugged rear metal enclosure and dual cooling fans for extended use applications, the monitor is built to perform flawlessly in virtually any digital signage or information display setting.

Sharp Electronics is the U.S. sales and marketing subsidiary of Sharp Corporation, a world leader in liquid crystal display (LCD) technology and has LCD monitors and televisions that range in size from 13- to 65-inches.

Sharp's LCD monitor line has several proprietary technologies and features that ensure unparalleled image quality for a professional presentation of information, data and images. The line has anti-glare and low-reflection properties enabling Sharp monitors to be placed in brighter areas where other screens might appear washed out. Higher contrast lets viewers discern details they might otherwise miss, particularly when viewing darker content. The 170-degree viewing angles help the monitors display a crisp picture that can be seen from virtually anywhere in the room. A Black TFT/Bright Pixel Elimination feature ensures that if a failed pixel occurs, it is effectively invisible to the viewer. Sharp LCD monitors virtually eliminate the risk of "ghost" or burn-in images that can occasionally appear on plasma and CRT monitors. The monitors can also display any content with ease, from DVD to varying PC resolutions thanks to their full complement of input and output connectors.

Developed for companies looking to install or update digital signage or information display applications, the Sharp PN-455RU LCD monitor is designed for use in high-resolution digital signage, medical/healthcare, graphics and CAD/CAM applications.

The PN-455RU is supported with a 3-year on-site parts and labor limited warranty, including 3-year warranty on the backlight with no restrictions as to whether the monitor is installed in portrait or landscape mode.

The PN-455RU is available now through Sharp authorized dealers and value-added resellers. The PN-455RUP is available on special order through Sharp authorized dealers and value-added resellers.

For more information, please contact Sharp Electronics Corporation, Professional Display Division, Sharp Plaza, Mahwah, N.J. 07430, or call 866-4-VISUAL (866-484-7825). For online product information, visit the Sharp LCD Products Division Web site at SharpLCD.com or e-mail: ProLCD@SharpUSA.com.

Sharp Electronics Corporation is the U.S. subsidiary of Japan's Sharp Corporation, a worldwide developer of one-of-a-kind home entertainment products, appliances, networked multifunctional office solutions, solar energy solutions and mobile communication and information tools. Leading brands include AQUOS® Liquid Crystal Televisions, 1-Bit™ digital audio products, SharpVision® projection products, Insight™ Microwave Drawers, IMAGER™ digital multifunctional systems, and Notevision® multimedia projectors. For more information visit Sharp Electronics Corporation at www.sharpusa.com