Panasonic announced that its entire best-selling 2008 line of 1080p VIERA Plasma HDTVs is rated to last 100,000 hours before reaching half its original brightness. Based upon the U.S. average daily viewing time of six and a half hours, Panasonic 1080p Plasma HDTVs could on average take more than 42 years to reach half of their original brightness level.

"There has been a lot of misinformation circulating about Plasma HDTVs and longevity, and we’re happy to once again set the record straight on the durability of Panasonic Plasma," said Robert Perry, Senior Vice President, Panasonic Display Products Company. "Quite simply, our Plasma TVs are built to last a very long time — as much as 100,000 hours to half their brightness."

As recently reported in the J.D. Power and Associates and Market Force Information 2008 Television Retail Insights Report, a "high proportion of recommendations of LCD sets is primarily due to retail salespersons’ lack of knowledge regarding recent improvements in plasma technology."

"Plasma HDTVs have a very strong track record of exceptional durability and lifespan," said Perry. "Panasonic Plasmas have consistently been rated among the best HDTVs available by many of the most respected publications in our industry. Despite what consumers may hear from misinformed sources, Plasma is the right choice for educated consumers looking for stunning picture quality and the ultimate big-screen viewing experience."

In addition to its 1080p line of VIERA Plasma HDTVs, Panasonic’s current line of two 720p VIERA Plasma HDTVs is rated to last 60,000 hours to half brightness or 25 years at six and a half hours per day.

Panasonic’s VIERA Plasma line features five distinct series (PZ850; PZ800; PZ85; PZ80; PX80), all of which feature new panels, increased contrast ratios, SD Memory Card slots, Game Mode, HDMI connections, increased luminous efficiency and VIERA Link(TM) — which allows for one-touch, single-remote integration of Panasonic components with the HDTV. New for 2008, Game Mode enhances the gaming experience by increasing responsiveness when displaying video games, making big-screen Panasonic VIERA Plasma the ideal way to enjoy video gaming.

"With the digital transition on the horizon and an increased awareness among consumers about high definition, consumers now demand blacker blacks, faster response times and the billions of colors that Panasonic Plasma is known for worldwide," said Perry. "When you also consider the tremendous customer support system behind all of our HDTVs through our exclusive VIERA Concierge program and added features like a Tuf Display glass panel that can withstand strong impacts, a VIERA Plasma HDTV is a partner you’ll be able to count on for the long haul."

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