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weatherproof posts

Pantel PAN-420 outdoor LCD upgrades resolution

by Richard Lawler, posted May 6th 2009 at 3:44PM


Got a need for an HDTV that can handle anything nature throws at it? Pantel's updated the 42-inch model of its waterproof outdoor line of LCDs, so the PAN-420 is now 1080p. The contrast ratio and other specs seem the same, but the extra pixels will cost you, with an MSRP of $4,999 so the real question is exactly how close will this be mounted to the hot tub / grill / Slip-n-slide to make the higher res worthwhile? Full PR is after the break.

Update: While the PAN-420's current MSRP is higher than when it debuted a year ago, it had since been raised to the $4,999 mark, so all those extra pixels shouldn't cost you a penny more than the 720p version did yesterday.

Continue reading Pantel PAN-420 outdoor LCD upgrades resolution

Pantel intros waterproof indoor / outdoor TV consoles

by Darren Murph, posted Sep 13th 2008 at 12:03AM


We already knew that Pantel was fixin' to loose a new water-shunning "mirror" LCD HDTV this fall, but apparently that's just not enough for these guys. In addition to that, it has also introduced Q4-bound indoor / outdoor weatherproof consoles that house a 42-inch LCD HDTV, built-in lift mechanism, wireless capabilities and integrated speakers to boot. Each system is equipped with 802.11a technology to deliver audio and video sans wires up to 150-feet, though pricing details are being kept on the low. Hop on past the break for all the specifications you need (and a few you probably don't).

Continue reading Pantel intros waterproof indoor / outdoor TV consoles

SunBriteTV reveals 3220HD / 4610HD all-weather outdoor LCD HDTVs

by Darren Murph, posted Jul 20th 2008 at 8:58AM


CEDIA 2008 is still over a month away, but the pre-expo news is already starting to trickle out. SunBriteTV, the firm responsible for last year's 46-inch 4600HD all-weather outdoor LCD, has just announced that it will be bringing two new ones to Denver this year, though there's no word on whether a dunk tank will also be in tow. The 32-inch 3220HD (1,366 x 768 resolution; 1,500:1 contrast ratio) and 46-inch 4610HD (19,20 x 1,080 resolution; 2,000:1 contrast ratio) both feature "corrosion-resistant, powder-coated aluminum exterior that protects the internal components from extreme weather and temperatures ranges," not to mention an interior heater to keep things toasty when it's snowing outside. The two sets are actually becoming available as we speak for $3,295 (3220HD) / $5,495 (4610HD), while a third unit -- the 23-inch HD-ready 2310HD -- can also be acquired now for "just" $1,995.

Pantel's 20-, 52- and 65-inch weatherproof LCD HDTVs now shipping

by Darren Murph, posted Jul 6th 2008 at 5:19PM


Unlike Sanyo, Pantel has a pretty good idea of when outdoor displays will sell: summertime. That being the case, Pantel has jubilantly announced that its 20-, 52-, and 65-inch models are all shipping. Each display boasts a "weatherproof" enclosure that keeps the panel within safe from unpredictable weather. These units were designed to withstand water, extreme heat / cold, wind and dust, and judging by a few unofficial tests, they'll hold their own against sugary beverages as well. Grab yours now for $2,999, $9,999 or $25,999 (respectively) and make your way over to the deep end.

Sanyo's 52-inch 1080p CE52SR1 LCD sheds water

by Darren Murph, posted Jun 18th 2008 at 1:34PM


Oh sure, waterproof LCD TVs have been available for ages, but Sanyo's making the choice of which outdoor display to buy simple with the introduction of its CE52SR1. You see, unlike many alternatives, this waterproof set packs a 1080p Full HD panel, meaning that you can enjoy your Blu-ray films in full-res glory while slouched in a beach chair beside your pool. Furthermore, the display is daylight readable and features a 1,500:1 contrast ratio, 1,500 cd/m2 brightness, 6.5-millisecond response time, 176-degree viewing angles, a slew of inputs and a frame constructed from marine grade anodized aluminum. Unfortunately, the summer in America will be long over before you can actually drop $13,995 in order to claim one, but October isn't too far out, now is it?

Pantel reveals 20-, 52- and 65-inch weatherproof LCD HDTVs

by Darren Murph, posted May 31st 2008 at 8:55AM


You've already seen what kind of chaos Pantel's weatherproof HDTVs can live through, and now it's unveiled a trio of new panel sizes to complement the 32- and 42-inch variants already available. Set to debut at InfoComm 2008, the 20-inch PAN-200, 52-inch PAN-520 and 65-inch PAN-650 really help to flesh out the lineup. Aside from shedding water, dust, snow and Play-Doh (among other foreign objects), you'll find a 1,366 x 768 (PAN-200) or 1,920 x 1,080 (PAN-520 and PAN-650) resolution, 16:9 aspect ratio, an anti-glare screen and a single HDMI port. The 20-incher checks in with a 700:1 contrast ratio, while the larger two offer 2,000:1, and the whole lot boasts an 802.11a wireless video package that claims to work up to 150-feet. Looking for prices? Try these on for size: $2,999 / $9,999 / $25,999 from smallest to largest.

Pantel / Aquatic AV weatherproof LCD TVs get torture tested, survive

by Darren Murph, posted Apr 15th 2008 at 11:23PM


Neither Pantel's 32-inch PAN320 nor Aquatic AV's 17-inch AQ-LCD17S-1 boast HD panels, but these units can do some things even the mighty Kuro can't. Those sadistic (and oh-so-lucky) souls over at Sound and Vision Magazine were able to grab hold of the duo and indulge in an afternoon of torture -- all without fear of negative consequences. After blasting each set with a water hose, dousing 'em in Kool-Aid and even piling on the dirt, neither missed a single scene. Of course, they will set you back $3,950 and $1,999, respectively, but at least you won't be cooped up inside all summer, right? Hit the read link (and slip on the goggles) for the full report.

Pantel ships 32-inch PAN320 / 42-inch PAN420 waterproof LCD HDTVs

by Darren Murph, posted Mar 28th 2008 at 9:11AM


We know, the mere thought of going and putting chlorine into that pool makes you want to lock yourself in the closet, but Pantel's looking to give HD junkies with water-lovin' kids a reason to look forward to the summer. The 32-inch PAN320 and 42-inch PAN420 LCD HDTVs each boast a 1,366 x 768 resolution, 1,600:1 contrast ratio, a fairly beastly bezel and a thing for shedding water. You'll also find an anti-reflective glass and apparently, it comes with some sort of wireless capabilities integrated in. Unfortunately, having an HDTV that will gladly take a cannonball splash won't come cheap, as the 32-incher will demand $3,950 while the bigger brother checks in at $4,450.

[Via SlipperyBrick]

Runco sets up camp with outdoor LCD

by Erik Hanson, posted Oct 24th 2007 at 4:32AM

Runco WP-42HD outdoor weatherproof LCDHigh-end manufacturer Runco is headed for the great outdoors with a 42-inch LCD panel that's ruggedized and weatherproofed for use outside the home. The 1366 x 768-native WP-42HD flat panel sports a cabinet design to minimize exposure to the elements, and has a "Winter Mode" to allow it to operate down to -4° F -- low enough to want to watch it through the window instead of beside it. As is usual for Runco, the set includes RS-232 automation, a custom high-gloss bezel, and a $8,995 price tag to match, leaving us to wonder if we can instead pick up eight Vizio sets and just replace one every winter.

AQUiVO's weatherproof HDTV meets a fire hose blast, survives

by Darren Murph, posted Aug 24th 2007 at 4:03PM

Rest assured, we've witnessed our fair share of hardcore devices, and while we've seen fancy LCDs that purport to be waterproof, AQUiVO's IP56-rated weather resistant LCD took one on the chin to prove its claim. The aluminum-framed, completely sealed HDTV was hoisted onto a wall outside, and with little mercy shown, a fire hose blast tried its best to infiltrate the screen. Amazingly enough, the display appeared relatively untouched after its midday shower, and if you've got those skeptical genes, feel free to check out the video for yourself after the break.

[Via ShinyShiny]

Continue reading AQUiVO's weatherproof HDTV meets a fire hose blast, survives

Sanyo's weatherproof LCD TV: the 42-inch 42LM4WPN

by Darren Murph, posted Nov 29th 2006 at 7:43PM

Sanyo's been on an LCD run of late, busting out a 7.1-inch 1080p edition, only to now take things outside with its weatherproof 42-inch LCD TV. The 42LM4WPN sports the IP56 weather resistance approval, and also sports an anti-reflective, tamper-resistant glass to show off those sparkling HD signals even when pummeled with streams of water. The set boasts a 1,366 x 768 resolution, 500 cd/m2 brightness, 800:1 contrast ratio, 178-degree viewing angle, 8-millisecond response time, and a lightweight aluminum frame to boot. On the rear, you'll find inputs for VGA, HDMI (HDCP-compliant), RGBHV (BNC), component, composite, audio out, and even an RS-232 serial port. The display also plays nice with Sanyo's PJ-NET organizer, which allows the display to be used as a network monitor, "using your internet browser to monitor and control" its properties without any additional software. While there's no set release date or pricetag associated with this rugged beauty just yet, we're hoping Sanyo opens up the flood gates around CES.




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