Sharp News

SHARP® INTRODUCES VERSATILE PROFESSIONAL PROJECTORS THAT BOAST EXCELLENT IMAGE QUALITY AT AN AFFORDABLE PRICE

Tue, 15 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100

MAHWAH, NJ – May 15, 2012 – Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, today introduced the latest addition to its expansive line of professional projectors, the PG-LX2000 and PG-LS2000. Both portable projectors are 3D Ready and feature DLP^®BrilliantColor™ technology for rich and vibrant color reproduction and enhanced reliability.

“We are excited for users to be equipped with all the benefits of Sharp’s exceptionally vibrant and realistic image reproduction capabilities in these new low cost 3D Ready projectors,” said Les Burger, senior product marketing manager, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “We expect the PG-LX2000 and PG-LS2000 to set a new standard for projectors that are ideal for use in classrooms, meeting rooms and other office settings.”

These 3D Ready projector models incorporate DLP Link™ technology for use with compatible 3D content and glasses. They feature 2,800 lumens and 2:000:1 contrast ratio, along with a sealed DLP^® chip with filter free design, to help provide not only high performance but also lower maintenance and operating costs. Weighing just 5.1 pounds, these lightweight and flexible projectors are excellent for use in portable (table-top) and fixed installation (ceiling mount) applications.

Both models incorporate a wide complement of inputs including HDMI™ (available on PG-LX2000 only), RGB/component, composite video and stereo audio inputs. An RS-232C serial control/communications port is also provided.

The PG-LX2000 and PG-LS2000 come readily equipped with presentation assist functions that are accessible from the remote. These include 3D mode on/off, GUI (Graphic User Interface) Pointer, Spotlight, Image Freeze, Image Enlarge, Break Timer and AV Mute. Enhanced security and anti-theft features include Kensington® lock compatibility, security bar, key lock and system lock functions and optional security cable kits (for use with Sharp’s optional ceiling mount bracket).

Easy setup and operation is aided by Sharp’s “Quick Start” on-screen setup guide, a 1.2x optical zoom lens and vertical keystone correction directly accessible from the remote. These models also feature a built-in closed caption decoder with black and white text for easy readability.

With standby power consumption as low as 0.5W and an estimated lamp life of up to 5,000 hours (Eco+Quiet mode: On), these projectors are designed for reduced environmental impact. To help provide peace of mind, these projectors are backed by a three-year parts and labor limited warranty that includes Sharp’s 24-hour turnaround “ER” Express Repair support. (90 day warranty on the user-replaceable projection lamp.)

The PG-LX2000 ($850 MSRP) and the PG-LS2000 ($760 MSRP) are now available through Sharp’s network of ProAV dealers, resellers and distributors.

Please visit http://www.sharpusa.com/projectors or contact Sharp directly at prolcd@sharpusa.com or 1-866-4-VISUAL (1-866-484-7825) with any questions or for further assistance.

SHARP VALIDATES GLOBALPRINT SYSTEMS PRINTPOD SOFTWARE THAT CAN ENHANCE END USER MOBILE PRINTING CAPABILITIES

Tue, 15 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100

MAHWAH, NJ, May 15, 2012 -- Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, and GlobalPrint Systems are pleased to announce the validation of GlobalPrint’s Sharp OSA^®-developed integration for PrintPOD. PrintPOD is a versatile cloud-accessed printing solution suitable for all types of businesses in virtually any market space.

PrintPOD enables businesses to offer a value-added solution that allows mobile users, including consumers and employees, to print documents directly from an iPhone, Android mobile device, laptop and a wide variety of other computing devices and platforms with only an Internet connection. . PrintPOD functions much like an ATM network where users can print to their cloud account then engage a PrintPOD-enabled MFP to release their document for printing. This easy-to-use service offers the ability to print any document, any place a Sharp OSA-enabled MFP with PrintPOD is accessible. Users simply access documents that are stored in the cloud through a secure account managed by GlobalPrint Systems, with their unique user ID and password.

Integrated using Sharp OSA technology, GlobalPrint Systems’ patented software provides significant benefits for enterprises looking to support customer mobility across market segments, including hospitality, colleges/universities, professional services, and retail.

“By leveraging mobile printing, accessible via Sharp OSA technology, GlobalPrint Systems helps streamline the print process and provide users with more convenient access to MFPs.” says Vince Jannelli, director of product management applications, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America.

“GPS is thrilled to have our PrintPod integration validated by Sharp. We believe that our PrintPOD solution for Sharp OSA-enabled MFPs will allow companies to offer significant value to their mobile users, and provide a secure and simple capability to print any document anywhere there’s a Sharp MFP with PrintPOD” says Darryl Dobin, Consulting CEO of GlobalPrint Systems.

Benefits of the PrintPOD and Sharp OSA technology:

A secure and fully functional mobile printing capability
A managed service that offers customers a low cost offering with significant value add for their mobile users
The ability to monetize print transactions if desired to create revenue sharing for Sharp dealers and customers
Full customer support for installation and ongoing management for customer cloud accounts

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SHARP NAMES TIM POLEGA VICE PRESIDENT, SHARP SOLAR ENERGY SOLUTIONS GROUP

Tue, 15 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100

MAHWAH, NJ May 15, 2012 – Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC) today announced that Tim Polega has been named vice president of Sharp’s Solar Energy Solutions Group (SESG), a division of SEC. In this position, Mr. Polega is responsible for all U.S. sales and marketing of Sharp’s solar energy products and solutions. Mr. Polega reports to Mr. Toshiyuki Osawa, chairman and CEO of Sharp Electronics Corporation.

Mr. Polega is a solar and renewable energy industry veteran with a highly successful track record in solar project development. Most recently, Mr. Polega served as director of Sharp’s Solar Energy Solutions Group where he lead projects and structured joint ventures with developers to finance and build utility scale solar farms. Before joining SESG, Mr. Polega was vice president of engineering & construction for Inovateus Solar, where he evaluated PV technologies and solar installation strategies.

"For more than 50 years Sharp has been a leader in solar technology and innovation, and I’m thrilled to take on this position directing our growing team,” said Polega. “I look forward to continuing to promote Sharp’s U.S. built systems and world class products to help Sharp expand into a total photovoltaic solution company."

“Tim brings a vast array of solar experience at every step of the value chain,” said Mr. Osawa. “We are pleased to have him leading our efforts as we expand following the solar industry’s best growth year ever.”

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SHARP INTRODUCES BRAILLE OVERLAY LABEL KITS

Mon, 14 May 2012 18:28:00 +0100

MAHWAH, NJ – May 14, 2012 -- Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America is pleased to announce the launch of Braille Overlay Label Kits. The new labels were created to be applied to the user interface on several of the latest Sharp multifunction printers, including the following models: MX-2610N, MX-3110N, MX-3610N, MX-4110N, MX-4111N, MX-5110N and MX-5111N.

The new Braille Overlay Labels are transparent, easy-to-use overlays for the high-resolution touch-screen UI. Key operators, administrators and Braille readers will quickly learn their placement and functions. These clear, thin, transparent labels do not hinder the easy, interactive functions of the New UI, such as Page Edit and Image Preview. Clear, transparent Braille Overlay Labels allow the most common operations – such as copying and faxing, as well Black & White and Color Start labels – and can easily be placed directly on the touchscreen. Adding Braille Overlay Labels will help allow a visually impaired worker to be able to complete their jobs in a busy environment that demands multiple sets of copies or faxes of important documentation.

“With so many office devices and machines incorporating touch-screens, the Braille Overlay Labels are helping to make some of the latest Sharp workplace technologies accessible to blind and visually impaired users. This innovative product is one example of how Sharp is helping create an office environment more compatible with the technology needs of the future,” said Raymond Miney, Jr., product manager, Sharp Imaging and Information Company.

Braille Overlay Labels are currently available and are offered with the following options:

Number Pad: 0 through 9, *, #, Clear
Color Start, Black & White Start, and Roam Buttons
Copy, Fax and Clear All
1, 2, 3, and 4 for personalized favorites

Simple to apply and easy to use, the transparent labels are designed specifically for direct application to the high-resolution touch-screen interface on advanced Sharp MFP models. These clear, thin labels do not hinder or obstruct the variety of interactive functions of the interface, and allow users to easily access such features as Page Edit, as well as more frequently used operations such as copying and faxing, black & white and color start functions and others. Thin and transparent, the labels do not blur the screen or sacrifice the user interface efficacy and on-screen editing functionality.

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SHARP® ANNOUNCES EXPANSION OF HIGH-PERFORMANCE, ENERGY-EFFICIENT LED LIGHTING SOLUTIONS PORTFOLIO

Wed, 09 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100

MAHWAH, NJ, May 9, 2012 – Sharp Electronics Corporation today announced its plans to launch a new portfolio of market-leading LED downlighting, track lighting, and recessed troffer solutions, designed and manufactured in its facilities in the US. This product offering is the first of what will become a steady stream of future luminaire and lamp solutions for lighting applications from Sharp.

These Sharp LED offerings – which will be available for shipment in late summer 2012 – will include 6-inch and 4-inch diameter downlights, in both round and square options, multiple lumen packages, and a variety of finishes and colors; track lights in two sizes and lumen packages, with a number of color and beam angle options; and 2’x2’ and 2’x4’ recessed troffers available in variety of customizable finishes, and energy saving dimming control options.

All of these Sharp products have been designed and will be manufactured at the company’s Memphis, TN facility, thus enabling Sharp to deliver lighting solutions to customers in North America who require quick turnaround to get product to the job site. Additionally, Sharp’s capabilities out of its Memphis facility enable it to create and implement features that address the specific needs of users in each region of North America via easy product modifications, such as different finish options and ceiling thickness accommodations, as well as substantial customization of standard products for signature projects.

“With this announcement, Sharp is reinforcing its commitment to combine a history of LED leadership and innovation with our design and manufacturing capabilities in North America. Sharp is dedicated to leading the way in addressing the evolving needs of LED specifiers, distributors, installers, and end users across a range of markets,” said Al Near, vice president, sales and marketing. “Sharp has been at the forefront of the LED technology industry since its inception – mass-producing LED devices for more than 40 years and leading the Japanese market in LED lighting devices.”

Sharp’s LED luminaires are powered by its Zenigata chip technology which enables the delivery of extremely energy-efficient luminaires that offer higher color quality and better performance than comparable traditional source lighting products, such as incandescent, halogen, compact fluorescent, and even ceramic metal halide.

Sharp LED lighting solutions are designed to meet the highest industry standards, including Design Lights Consortium, California Title 24, Chicago Plenum guidelines and are ENERGY STAR^® qualified. With a design focus on “quality of light,” not only should Sharp LED luminaires meet North America’s most stringent energy codes, but they will do so by providing the color quality, dimming, and optical control properties similar to less efficient incandescent light sources, while providing even greater energy savings than mercury-filled, UV emitting fluorescent light sources.

As compared to other LED lighting products, Sharp Zenigata components operate at high efficiency levels, combined with high levels of color saturation, yielding a CRI well above 90+. Most other LED products with comparable light output typically deliver CRI measurements in the low to mid 80s. Sharp LED luminaires are superior to traditional source lighting products as they consume less energy and produce less heat resulting in additional energy savings and reduced HVAC loads in buildings. In addition, Sharp luminaires do not give off UV light, which can cause color fading in fabrics and artwork and do not contain mercury, which can lead to lamp disposal issues. Sharp luminaires feature extremely long lamp life delivering approximately 50,000 hours of operation, which can significantly reduce the relamping of traditional lighting sources from 10 to 50 times over the life of the lamp.

“Sharp’s announcement of plans to launch a portfolio of LED luminaires in the US further reinforces the company’s global focus on energy-saving and energy-creating products,” said Near. “The extraordinary efficiency and color quality of our LED lighting solutions, together with the dedication to environmentally conscious practices at Sharp facilities contributes to Sharp’s overall vision for a cleaner and healthier world.”

Sharp offers an expanding portfolio of leading LED solutions that ideally position the company to address the needs of markets including retail and hospitality, where clients require a complete set of solutions in order to create an attractive environment where customers can shop or relax.

SHARP ELECTRONICS CORPORATION NAMES TOSHIYUKI OSAWA CHAIRMAN AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Wed, 09 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100

MAHWAH, NJ, May 9, 2012 – Sharp Electronics Corporation, (SEC) the U.S. subsidiary of Sharp Corporation, has announced the appointment of Toshiyuki Osawa to CEO & Chairman of the Board, Sharp Electronics Corporation and Executive Officer, Group General Manager, North & South America Group, Sharp Corporation. Mr. Osawa replaces Kozo Takahashi, who has transferred to a new Sharp Corporation assignment as Executive Vice President and Chief Officer, Sales and Marketing; and Group General Manager, Global Business Group.

Mr. Osawa has spent 27 years with Sharp Corporation, most recently as President, Sharp Electronics Sales (China) Co., Ltd. This will be Mr. Osawa's second assignment in the United States. From 1996 – 2003, he served as part of the management team of Sharp Electronics Corporation's Consumer Electronics group.

As Chairman and CEO, Mr. Osawa will oversee overall direction, management and administration of all corporate operations for the company’s various divisions and will be responsible for the strategic vision for the company. Sharp Electronics Corporation is the U.S. sales and marketing subsidiary of Sharp Corporation, Osaka, Japan.

"I am very pleased to be back at Sharp Electronics Corporation, at such an exciting time for the company," said Mr. Osawa. "Mr. Takahashi's strong guidance and leadership has positioned the company for success. As the U.S. economy continues to strengthen, I hope to use my experience to enhance sustainable growth as well as use Sharp’s unique strengths in LCD and solar cell production to help grow the brand and contribute to future successes."

SHARP CELEBRATES PRODUCTION OF ITS THREE MILLIONTH SOLAR PANEL AT MEMPHIS MANUFACTURING FACILITY

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 14:26:00 +0100

MEMPHIS, Tenn., April 30, 2012 – Sharp Electronics Corporation, the U.S. subsidiary of Sharp Corporation, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of solar modules, is commemorating the production of the three millionth solar module at its assembly operation at Sharp Manufacturing Company of America (SMCA) in Memphis, Tennessee. Since coming online in 2003, the facility’s production capacity has increased tremendously, and its manufacturing staff has doubled to 400 in the past four years. The solar manufacturing facility assembles a variety of modules for residential, commercial and utility-scale installations.

“Sharp is very proud to reach a milestone of this magnitude,” said Mr. Toshiyuki Osawa, chairman, Sharp Electronics Corporation. “Having the three millionth panel roll off of the production lines here in Memphis, Tennessee, is a testament to the growing demand for solar electricity, and our steadfast dedication to growing the solar electricity market. This is a tremendous achievement for Sharp and the entire clean tech sector.”

Sharp’s Memphis facility has produced enough solar modules to fully power more than 100,000 total average-sized homes, with clean, renewable solar energy. This saves nearly 18 million metric tons of CO₂ per year. Sharp partners with Tennessee suppliers for materials used to turn 180,000 solar cells that arrive every morning into approximately 3,000 solar panels that ship out at the end of every day.

“We share this achievement with our customers - some of the finest dealers, installers, businesses and government organizations in the nation,” said T.C. Jones, vice president of human resources and general affairs, Sharp Manufacturing Company of America. “Our customers are creating jobs by hiring electricians, roofers, and other labor to install our high-quality solar modules, thus driving local economies while helping to build the nation’s renewable energy portfolio.”

Sharp celebrates its 100^th anniversary and 50 years in solar energy this year—more than any other solar company in the world. It has grown its presence in the U.S., supplying the solar modules that power thousands of residential, governmental, commercial and utility-scale solar electricity systems throughout the country. Its roster of notable commercial solar installations includes systems at Agricenter in Memphis, Tennessee; American Drive Business Center in Jackson, Tennessee; FedEx’s hub in Oakland, California; Google’s corporate campus in Mountain View, California; Patagonia’s headquarters in Ventura, California; and the San Francisco Giants’ AT&T Park.

For more information visit Sharp Electronics Corporation at www.sharpusa.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and watch us on YouTube.

SHARP SOLAR PROVIDES SOLAR MODULES FOR TENNESSEE’S LARGEST UTILITY-SCALE SINGLE-AXIS TRACKING SOLAR FARM

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 15:01:00 +0100

CAMAS, Wash., April 16, 2012 – Sharp Electronics Corporation’s Solar Energy Solutions Group celebrated the grand opening of the state’s largest utility-scale single-axis tracking solar system in Tennessee at the Agricenter International in Memphis, Tennessee on Wednesday, April 11^th. The nearly 1 MW (megawatt) solar farm features 4,160 Sharp solar modules that were manufactured at its Memphis-area plant. The ribbon cutting ceremony took place as part of the Sharp-sponsored Tennessee Valley Solar Solutions Conference.

“The Agricenter installation exemplifies state economic development,” said T.C. Jones, vice president of human resources and general affairs, Sharp Manufacturing Company of America. “The array’s modules are manufactured in Tennessee and installed by local contractors, helping Tennessee simultaneously create jobs and improve the environment.”

Array Technologies made the single-axis solar tracking support structure that now sits on five acres. The solar farm will generate as much as 1,600,000 kWh (kilowatt-hours) annually—enough to equal all of the electricity consumed by 150 homes a year. The tracker allows the solar modules to follow the path of the sun to produce approximately 20 percent more solar power than a fixed-tilt array. Sharp’s ND-240QCJ 240 watt solar module incorporates an advanced surface texturing process to increase light absorption and improve efficiency.

The solar farm was installed by LightWave Solar, which has operations throughout Tennessee, and will generate electricity to be sold to Memphis Light, Gas and Water.

The grand opening of the solar farm took place during a ribbon cutting on April 11, at 1:30 p.m. on the east side of the array. The unveiling of the array was part of the Tennessee Valley Solar Solutions Conference, of which Sharp is a sponsor. The conference took place from April 10 - 11 and brought together policy makers, industry leaders, solar researchers and solar providers to celebrate the state’s growth in the solar industry. The conference is a joint venture between the TVA and the Tennessee Solar Institute.

“As a sponsor of the Tennessee Valley Solar Solutions Conference, we’re proud to be a pioneering member of the Tennessee clean energy economy and look forward to continued strong growth of this emerging industry in Tennessee,” Jones added.

Sharp is celebrating 50 years in the solar industry and began manufacturing solar modules in its Hickory Hill plant in 2003. In the past four years, the plant doubled its local employment to 500 people. Sharp partners with Tennessee suppliers for materials used to turn 180,000 solar cells that arrive every morning into approximately 3,000 solar panels that ship out at the end of every day.

The Sharp ND-240QCJ solar modules are backed by the Sharp 25-year limited warranty on power output and a 10-year limited warranty on materials or workmanship. Please visit www.sharpusa.com/SolarElectricity.aspx for more information.

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SHARP ANNOUNCES DEAL WITH THE CITY OF SAN DIEGO

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 14:23:00 +0100

MAHWAH, NJ, April 10, 2012 – Sharp Business Systems of Southern California, a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, has been awarded a 5-year contract from the city of San Diego, to become the city’s copier vendor, supplying the city with more than 550 machines.

“This win is the culmination of four months of hard work and dedication from the team at Sharp Business Systems of Southern California” said Jerry Jackson, vice president, Service and Operations, Sharp Business Systems of Southern California. “This contract with the city of San Diego is the direct result of Sharp’s ongoing commitment to providing the best combination of product and services design to help clients meet their varied business needs.”

The Request for Proposal (RFP), issued in May of 2011, was awarded to Sharp Business Systems of Southern California in September, 2011 and will save the city an amount estimated at more than $1 million per year, for the duration of the 5-year contract.

In the initial stages of the relationship, Sharp Business Systems delivered, installed, and networked 562 MFPs for the city within seven weeks. The company also trained city employees on how to use the machines.

For more information on Sharp business products visit Sharp’s Web site at www.sharpusa.com. Become a fan of Sharp at www.facebook.com/SharpUSA, follow us on Twitter @Sharp_USA. and view us on YouTube www.youtube.com/sharpelectronicsusa

SHARP NAMES TIM ALESSI ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 14:26:00 +0100

MAHWAH, NJ, April 4, 2012 -- Sharp Electronics Marketing Company of America (SEMCA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, announced that it has named Tim Alessi associate vice president of Product Development.

Mr. Alessi will drive SEMCA’s local A/V product development efforts of current product categories and work to create new product and service offerings for the U.S. marketplace in the near future.

Mr. Alessi is a 30-year consumer electronics industry veteran with diverse experience in new product development, product marketing, sales and finance at market leading manufacturers. Mr. Alessi will report to Jim Sanduski, vice president, Strategic Product Marketing.

“I’m very excited to join the Sharp team,” said Mr. Alessi. “I’m looking forward to helping Sharp continue to lead the large screen LED TV industry while strengthening and developing other CE categories.”

“Tim is a valued asset and we’re thrilled to have him join our group,” said Mr. Sanduski. “His years of experience and passion for the consumer electronics industry makes him a great addition to Sharp.”

For more information visit Sharp Electronics Corporation at www.sharpusa.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and watch us on YouTube.

SHARP TAPS RECYCLING COMPANY CLOSE THE LOOP IN ONGOING COMMITMENT TO FACILITATE TONER RECYCLING

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 14:15:00 +0100

MAHWAH, NJ – April 2, 2012 -- Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, has announced a collaboration with materials recovery company Close the Loop as part of its ongoing commitment to encourage environmentally improved business practices.

This alliance will extend Sharp’s well-known “Stop, Drop and Recycle” program. Close the Loop will manage and facilitate the program by providing recycling kits to companies and institutions that use Sharp toner. Users will receive a kit in the mail with pre-labeled boxes for all Sharp consumables including used toner and drum cartridges, bottles and waste toner collection kits. All Sharp cartridges are 100% recyclable in full support of Sharp’s commitment to the goal of zero waste to landfill. The program is free of charge to Sharp customers.

“This collaboration aligns directly with Sharp’s corporate vision to contribute to the world through environmentally-improved and health-conscious businesses,” said Doug Albregts, president, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “Working with Close the Loop on our Stop, Drop and Recycle program provides a valuable service to end users and the environment. We’re proud to collaborate with a company that is outstanding in its field, committed to the benefits of recycling and passionate about protecting the environment.”

Sharp will have access to valuable information regarding users’ recycling submissions and habits through Close the Loop’s customer data. Sharp can leverage the trend evidence through the development of recycling program enhancements.

Sharp’s alliance with Close the Loop adds to a history of action from Sharp to improve the environmental impact of its products by engaging customers and including them in the effort. Other current recycling initiatives from Sharp include participation in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s “Plug-In to eCycling” program, created to reduce the environmental impact of electronic products during their production, use, transport, recycling and disposal, and co-founding and participation in the Electronic Manufacturers Recycling Management Company.

To learn more about Sharp and the environment, please visit Sharp’s website: http://www.sharpusa.com/AboutSharp/SharpAndTheEnvironment.aspx

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SHARP STREAMLINES APPLIANCE DISTRIBUTION TO BETTER SERVICE ITS DEALER NETWORK

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 14:58:00 +0100

MAHWAH, NJ, March 28, 2012 -- Sharp Electronics Marketing Company of America (SEMCA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, is consolidating its distribution network serving the independent retail channel to two distributors.

SEMCA’s Health & Environmental Solutions group will focus all its distribution on state-of-the-art distributors ALMO Corporation, based in Philadelphia, PA and Climatic Corporation, based in Columbia, SC.

“Sharp is excited to align with the industry’s two leading appliance distributors,” said Chris Hogan, vice president of sales for Sharp’s Health & Environmental Solutions group. All Sharp dealers can now take advantage of the strong sales and highly automated logistic capabilities offered by ALMO and Climatic.”

ALMO Corporation will expand from their current Sharp territory in the Northeast to a nearly national footprint, coast to coast, serving every state outside of the Southeast with the exception of Hawaii. Their 10 strategically located warehouses help keep their vendor and dealer base competitive and well serviced. ALMO also carries Sharp AV products within a separately defined geographic territory. Visit their website for more information. http://almo.com/index.asp

"Sharp Insight^® products are truly best-in-class microwave appliances. With the expansion of our distribution agreement, our appliance dealers throughout North America are able to offer Sharp Microwave Drawer™ ovens, built-in microwaves, steam ovens and convection ovens, which are key components in today's higher end kitchen," said Warren Chaiken, president & COO of Almo. "With Sharp's top of the line products and our distribution capabilities, this partnership is a win-win for the independent dealer channel.”

Climatic Home Products’ highly trained sales force will assist Sharp with the Southeast. As a part of the Climatic Corporation, an organization with more than 75 years in distribution and 13 southeastern locations, Climatic Home Products enjoys the benefits of being part of a national wholesale and professional services group. Reaching hundreds of dealers on a weekly basis, Climatic Home Products operates from several distribution centers, providing excellent replenishment capabilities in 24-48 hours.

“We are thrilled to add Sharp to our list of highly acclaimed brands,” said Gilly Bailey, chief operating officer, Climatic Corporation. “Health and environmental products are a rapidly growing segment of the market, and we are pleased that our dealer base will have a full array of solutions available to their customers.” Learn more at http://www.climaticcorp.com/home/climatic-home-products.

For more information visit Sharp Electronics Corporation at www.sharpusa.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and watch us on YouTube.

SHARP AND DRIVVE ANNOUNCE THE VALIDATION OF DRIVVE SINGLE SIGN ON (SSO) FUNCTIONALITY FOR SHARP OSA-ENABLED DEVICES

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 14:54:00 +0100

MAHWAH, NJ, March 28, 2012 -- Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, today announced the validation of Drivve Single Sign On (SSO) functionality. Drivve | Image, Drivve’s market leading document capture and routing middleware, now provides native support for device authentication on Sharp OSA^®-enabled devices in addition to application level authentication. Now Drivve | Image users need only authenticate once when using any 3rd party external authority application such as Sepialine, Equitrac, or PaperCut as well as Drivve’s own device authentication application, Drivve | Print.

Drivve | Image handles two types of authentication levels:

1. Device-level Authentication

Device-level authentication locks down the entire device. In order to access the device functionality, users must first authenticate – for example using a swipe card or login ID. Once the login procedure succeeds the user can then access applications on the device.

In case of the device-level authentication, Drivve | Image will automatically load the users login ID and use it for its program logic – for example to display personalized scan profiles on which only this user has access to.

2. Application-level Authentication

The application-level authentication only locks down certain applications on the device but the user might have access to certain features on the device, for example making copies. As soon as the user accesses one of the secured applications he or she will be asked to authenticate.

In case of the application-level authentication, Drivve | Image uses its internal mechanism of authentication. Therefore if the user selects the Drivve | Image application button on the device control panel, Drivve | Image can be configured to require authentication. In this case, Drivve | Image does not retrieve the login ID from the device but from the Drivve | Image logon screen.

“By leveraging Single Sign On capability, accessible via Sharp OSA technology, Drivve helps streamline the process of authentication at the MFP. Now there is no need to log in to each individual application required for a customer’s document process,” said Vince Jannelli, director of product management applications, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. "We're very pleased that Drivve can provide this time saving functionality to our mutual customers”

“Security, confidentiality and ease of use are just some of the key benefits of using Drivve | Image to automate document processes from the outset by the intelligent scanning and processing of paper documents at the MFP,” said Peter Turnbull, EVP, Sales & Marketing at Drivve, LLC. He continued, “Drivve was one of the first software developers to develop an embedded application for Sharp MFPs using Sharp OSA technology and we continue to help Sharp’s customers realize maximum productivity and cost savings from their investment in Sharp equipment.”

For more information, visit Sharp’s Web site at sharpusa.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and watch us on YouTube.

SHARP WELCOMES SPRING AT THE 2012 NATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL IN WASHINGTON D.C.

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 21:05:00 Z

Untitled Document

MAHWAH, NJ, March 22, 2012 –Sharp is proud to participate in the National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, D.C., the nation’s greatest springtime celebration. The Festival marks the Centennial anniversary of the gift of trees from Tokyo to Washington, D.C. with a five-week celebration that began March 20, 2012 and continues through April 27, 2012.

As part of the Festival events, Sharp is participating in the opening weekend at Family Days, the annual family event held at the National Building Museum. Sharp volunteers will present the Sharp Solar Academy program which provides an interactive lesson on climate change, renewable energy, energy conservation and the science of solar. Along with technology, Sharp views education as a core component of the company’s environmental stewardship. Sharp is honored to participate in the festival and be given the opportunity to show visitors ways they can make the world a better place and help them become empowered to make eco-conscious decisions.

Sharp’s participation throughout the National Cherry Blossom Festival also includes:

The loaning of Sharp product including TVs, monitors and AQUOS BOARD™ interactive display systems at the Opening Ceremony, Family Days and Japan Bowl competition
Sharp funding of Japan Bowl winners to visit Sharp Corporation and tour the Tenri, Japan facility
Sharp to present Ever Sharp pencils to dignitaries attending the Opening Ceremony
Donation of Sharp product for Festival silent auction

In addition to the Solar Academy, attendees at Family Days will be able to participate in hands-on crafts and design activities, and enjoy a variety of performances by U.S. and Japanese talent, including taiko drummers, ballet and music. The US Postal Service will issue the commemorative Cherry Blossom Centennial Forever stamps and first-day covers.

Sharp began its long, rich heritage in 1912 with founder Tokuji Hayakawa’s invention of the snap belt buckle and three years later the Ever Sharp mechanical pencil from which Sharp takes its name. Sharp has long lived up to this name with innovations such as the world's first electronic calculator, the first microwave oven turntable, and the mass production of solar cells in 1963. Sharp's unique LCD production capabilities include the industry’s only 10th Generation LCD factory and the world’s largest available LED TV in an 80-inch screen size class. This spring, Sharp is proud and honored to celebrate its 100 years in conjunction with the Cherry Blossom Festival.

For more information on Sharp’s energy efficient products, contact Sharp Electronics Corporation, Sharp Plaza, Mahwah, N.J., 07495-1163, or call 800-BE-SHARP. For online product information, visit Sharp’s Web site at sharpusa.com. Become a fan of Sharp at www.facebook.com/SharpUSA, follow us on Twitter@Sharp_USA, and view us on www.youtube.com/sharpelectronicsusa.

CONTACT:

Mitch Polikoff
Ketchum
Phone: 646-935-4367
E-mail: mitch.polikoff@ketchum.com

Ellin Everson
Sharp Electronics Corporation
Phone: 201-529-8630
E-mail: ellin.everson@sharpusa.com

SHARP RECEIVES 2012 ENERGY STAR AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN ENERGY-EFFICIENT PRODUCT DESIGN

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 17:49:00 Z

Sharp offered 158 ENERGY STAR^®qualified models in all seven product categories in 2011, including 30 LCD TV models.
The 80" class LC-80LE632U is the most energy-efficient flat-panel TV available today, as measured by power consumption per square inch. On average, it costs just $22 per year in electricity use to operate
Sharp televisions with unique Quattron™ Quad Pixel technology, are up to 55-percent more energy efficient than current energy-efficiency criteria under ENERGY STAR program requirements.
Sharp promoted educational materials and programs for consumers, retailers and students.
Sharp took a leadership role in CE industry to develop key ENERGY STAR program efficiency metrics.

MAHWAH, NJ, March 15, 2012 – Sharp Electronics Corporation has been selected to receive a 2012 Excellence in Energy Efficient Product Design Award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) ENERGY STAR^® program. This award recognizes Sharp's ongoing commitment to promoting energy-efficiency amongst the consumer electronics and business products' trade and consumers, as well as the company's efforts to lead by example in the execution of its business operations. Each year, the U.S. EPA and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) honor organizations that have made outstanding contributions to protecting the environment through supporting and promoting energy-efficiency. Sharp will receive this award at a ceremony in Washington, D.C. on March 15, 2012.

"This is a great honor for Sharp. The ideals upheld by the ENERGY STAR program are consistent with those of our corporate vision to contribute to the world through environmentally-improved and health-conscious businesses, focusing on energy-saving and energy-creating products," said Bob Scaglione, chief marketing officer, Sharp Electronics Corporation. "Our efforts in this area are diverse and go far beyond the products we manufacture. This is demonstrated through our ongoing enhancements to our manufacturing facilities to reduce energy use, our MRM electronic waste recycling program, our comprehensive renewable energy educational program for elementary school students, our free nationwide Sharp TV and copier cartridge recycling program for consumers and many other initiatives."

Growing Line of Energy-Efficient Products

The seven categories in which Sharp offered ENERGY STAR qualified products in 2011 include air conditioners; air purifiers; audio; copiers/printer/multifunction peripherals; DVD players; monitors/displays and televisions. Sharp's AQUOS Quattron televisions, with Quad Pixel Technology, boast energy efficiency levels of as much as 55% above ENERGY STAR standards.

In 2011, 30 of Sharp's LCD TV models were ENERGY STAR qualified, as well as all of its Blu-ray Disc™ players. Sharp introduced additional models of ENERGY STAR qualified professional monitors, including its touch screen interactive display system. In addition, the document systems the company introduced in 2011 are significantly more efficient in typical operating conditions than earlier models.

Sharp proudly meets, and often exceeds, the product-labeling requirements of the ENERGY STAR program and incorporates instructions in the owner's manuals on how consumers can maximize energy-efficiency by using products' key features and functions.

Industry Leadership in Energy Efficiency

Sharp had more TV models recognized by EPA ENERGY STAR's "Most Efficient" category at the time of the award application than any other manufacturer.

Beyond offering comprehensive ENERGY STAR product labeling and in-box materials, Sharp provides promotional and point-of-purchase materials including energy saving information to help consumers understand the cost-saving and environmental benefits that are made possible by efficient products. In addition, the SharpUSA.com website provides downloadable materials including brochures, operation manuals, and other materials to encourage retailers and consumers to think in terms of energy-efficiency.

Over the past 20 years, American families and businesses have saved nearly $230 billion on utility bills and prevented greenhouse gas emissions equal to those from more than 350 million vehicles with help from ENERGY STAR.

"Sharp is committed to helping our customers save money and protect the environment with innovative ENERGY STAR qualified products," said Bob Scaglione, chief marketing officer, Sharp Electronics Corporation. "Our partnership with ENERGY STAR is integral to our growing business."

"As we celebrate the 20^th anniversary of the ENERGY STAR program, EPA is proud to recognize Sharp with the 2012 ENERGY STAR Excellence in Energy-Efficient Product Design Award," said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. "Sharp and all our ENERGY STAR award winners truly demonstrate how the leadership and commitment from EPA's partners has made a difference in the lives of Americans since 1992, saving them billions of dollars in energy costs and improving the health of our families, the planet and our future."

Sharp trains and recognizes dealers through its "Dealer of Excellence in Promoting Energy-Efficient Products" program and offers them additional training via the Web that ensures the benefits of Sharp's energy-efficient products are properly conveyed to consumers.

Sharp has expanded its leadership in the measurement of energy-efficiency in the television manufacturing industry in 2011, drafting what has become the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) industry standard CEA-2037. Sharp is also an active participant in the EPA's SmartWay^sm program that sets high energy-efficiency standards for freight shippers in the CE industry. Sharp is a four-time SmartWay Excellence Award winner.

The Electronic Manufacturers Recycling Management Company (MRM), which Sharp co-owns and operates with Toshiba and Panasonic, has grown to 1100 sites located across all 50 U.S. states. Since its start in 2007, MRM has recycled 128 million pounds of electronics, and Sharp alone has been responsible for more than 10.3 million pounds of recycled electronic material through the program.

Sharp encourages customers to recycle their used Sharp toner cartridges in bulk by providing a pre-paid Recycling Kit for their return to our facility.

Sharp is a world-leading manufacturer of solar cells and panels and offers the Sharp Solar Academy, a hands-on renewable energy education program for students, at U.S. elementary schools. Since the program began in 2008, it has reached more than 8,500 students.

For more information on Sharp's energy efficient products, contact Sharp Electronics Corporation, Sharp Plaza, Mahwah, N.J., 07495-1163, or call 800-BE-SHARP. For online product information, visit Sharp's Web site at sharpusa.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and watch us on YouTube.

SHARP TO EXHIBIT INDUSTRY LEADING SUITE OF DIGITAL SIGNAGE PRODUCTS AT THIS YEAR’S DIGITAL SIGNAGE EXPO

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 14:38:00 Z

LAS VEGAS, NV, March 7, 2012 -- Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, is excited to unveil its full line of professional LED displays in the U.S., now available in screen size classes of 60-, 70- (69 ½” diagonal) and 80-inches at the 2012 Digital Signage Expo. See the new line of LED displays at the Sharp booth, #1300.

In addition to featuring a variety of impressive screen sizes, Sharp’s displays feature advanced photo alignment technology which creates brilliant color images, with maximum impact. Sharp’s professional line of displays are engineered to meet the demands of a wide range of digital signage applications, and offer spectacular full color HD images, portrait and landscape mode compatibility and 24/7 reliability. The monitors display stunning video, graphics, text and more using Sharp cutting edge display technology in full 1080p HD. The new line is best suited for public environments such as hotel lobbies, conference areas, shopping malls, transportation hubs, and sports and entertainment facilities.

“The products we are showcasing demonstrate Sharp’s dedication to bringing high quality, energy efficient technology to the digital signage space,” said Doug Albregts, president, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “From professional LED displays to interactive display systems to video wall displays, all of the products we are presenting at Digital Signage Expo are designed to help businesses effectively and efficiently communicate in an integrated way.”

AQUOS BOARD™ Interactive Display Systems, Sharp’s interactive touch-panel displays, now available in screen size classes of 60-, 70- and 80-inches, will also be featured at the Expo. Sharp AQUOS BOARD Interactive Display Systems will also be featured as an interactive signage tool in 12 booths throughout the show.

Details of the technologies showcased at Digital Signage Expo:

PN-E Series

Sharp’s new PN-E line of large-format professional 60", 70" and 80" class LED monitors are designed to work virtually wherever, whenever and for whatever the need is. These durable LED monitors are ideal for use in most any demanding environment that requires around-the-clock operation seven days a week. Versions of all screen sizes are also available with integrated protective overlays offering enhanced durability in high-traffic applications. 24/7 certified, these commercial displays are backed by a 3-year on-site limited warranty covering parts, labor and backlight.

AQUOS BOARD Interactive Display Systems

Sharp’s state of the art interactive displays bring big screen collaborative technology to the workplace, with the 60”, 70” and 80” class AQUOS BOARD line. Sharp’s LED Backlit Touch-Panel Display is a complete interactive and digital solution for collaborative meetings, presentations, video conferencing, live data and interactive digital signage. This digital meeting solution offers full HD 1920 x 1080 resolution, providing a higher quality visual display than a traditional projector, in addition to the touch-screen capabilities, creating a truly hands-on experience.

Video Wall Display

The brilliant PN-V602 Video Wall Monitor combines the world’s slimmest bezel available* on a 60" class (diagonal) LCD monitor with high brightness for semi-outdoor environments. With 24/7 reliability and an almost seamless bezel (just 6.5 mm total between neighboring monitors), the PN-V602 sets a new standard for video wall displays. A full-array LED backlight helps ensure uniform brightness. Outstanding black levels are delivered via local dimming that allows specific groups of LEDs to be dimmed for greater control of brightness and darkness in different areas of the screen. Local dimming also helps deliver a remarkably better contrast ratio (up to 1,000,000:1) and brightness (up to 1,500 cd/m²) compared to conventional LCD monitors, while utilizing significantly less power.

Professional Outdoor Signage

Sharp’s 60” (diagonal) PN-A601 is compelling signage, best used for shopping malls, transportation hubs, college campuses and sports and entertainment facilities where high-ambient light may be prevalent. This 60" (diagonal) LED-LCD monitor offers ultra-high brightness of 2,000 cd/m² for superb visibility, even in brightly lit and high ambient light settings. The PN-A601 also provides exceptionally high image quality in full 1080p HD, with the energy savings of a full-array backlight in combination with local dimming.

All resellers, contractors, integrators and consultants attending Digital Signage Expo are encouraged to register into Sharp’s Certified Reseller Program for the chance to win an iPad^® 2.

For more information, please write to Sharp Electronics Corporation, Professional Display Division, Sharp Plaza, Mahwah, N.J. 07495-1163, call 866-4-VISUAL (866-484-7825) or e-mail ProLCD@SharpUSA.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and watch us on YouTube.

* Based on available information, as of September 1, 2011, for LCD panels of 60-inches or larger in size.

SHARP SOLAR INSTALLS FIRST SUNSNAP RESIDENTIAL SOLAR SOLUTION IN LIVINGHOMES DEMO

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 14:35:00 Z

CAMAS, Wash., February 28, 2012 -- Sharp Electronics Corporation’s Solar Energy Solutions Group is showcasing SunSnap™, its new residential PV solar appliance, as part of the TED2012 Conference in Long Beach from Feb. 27-March 2, 2012. The installation was completed in collaboration with LivingHomes®, which introduced the LivingHome C6, its first low-cost home, next to the Long Beach Performing Arts Center for TED attendees to visit. The Zero Energy, Zero Carbon, Energy Star® certified and LEED® Platinum-certifiable, prefabricated home combines world-class architecture and an unparalleled commitment to healthy and sustainable construction. Designed for ease-of-installation, SunSnap modules were easily integrated into the building design, and can easily be scaled up to offset the energy usage of the entire home.

The SunSnap Solution is a home appliance that consists of black-on-black 235-watt Sharp photovoltaic (PV) modules, making the roof installation more aesthetically pleasing. Installation is simplified through the implementation of a Sharp-enhanced Zep Compatible™ mounting and grounding system. The solution is Enphase Energized™ with high-efficiency microinverters from Enphase Energy.

“TED2012 is the perfect venue to expose new, forward-thinking audiences to Sharp’s vision to expand and simplify the mainstream adoption and use of solar energy for homeowners,” said Eric Hafter, senior vice president, Sharp Solar Energy Solutions Group. “LivingHomes’ already energy-efficient design comes full circle with the integration of the SunSnap solar appliance, which offsets all the power consumption for the future owner while requiring only a small physical footprint on the roof of the home.”

SunSnap will help consumers and contractors more easily realize the value of home-generated solar by removing barriers to solar through a simplified product design and installation process. As a scalable PV appliance, SunSnap offers homeowners the ability to install a system that meets their budget, roof space and personal energy needs. A small, modestly priced “starter kit” featuring as few as one solar appliance can be initially installed and the system can then be expanded in the future as often as desired.

“Homeowners are empowered now, more than ever before, to take control of their energy costs with clean affordable power. Paramount Solar’s collaboration with Sharp provides our consumers with a swift installation thereby reducing expenses and maximizing immediate savings and long-term benefit,” said Hayes Barnard, CEO of Paramount Solar, the system installer for this LivingHomes project.

Paramount Solar is performing the SunSnap installation on the LivingHomes demonstration home.The SunSnap Solution will first be available through traditional solar distributers and dealers beginning March 2012. Sharp expects to expand SunSnap sales to retail channels such as popular consumer electronics retailers, in the second half of 2012.

“We're excited to be partnering with Sharp and demonstrating our solution at TED2012,” said Bill Rossi, chief marketing officer for Enphase Energy. “Solar energy systems with this level of design flexibility, simplicity and insight, made possible by Enphase's unique microinverter system, are making solar an attractive option for more and more homeowners.”

By converting direct current (DC) from the solar modules to grid-compliant alternating current (AC) at the module-level, the Enphase Microinverter System creates independent power producers out of each solar module in an array. With this, installers have complete design flexibility and are able to offer system owners expandable solar systems that can be easily added to year after year.

The mounting and grounding technology is inherently simple and streamlined, integrated seamlessly into the solar module through the incorporation of Zep Solar’s Zep Compatible frame design. By incorporating the Zep Groove™ into the PV module, we have eliminated the need for bulky rails and separate grounding hardware found in conventional mounting schemes.

The SunSnap appliance is backed by the Sharp 25-year limited warranty on power production. Please visit www.sharpusa.com/SolarElectricity.aspx for more information. Information about tours and the LivingHome C6 is available at www.livinghomes.net.

For more information visit Sharp Electronics Corporation at www.sharpusa.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and watch us on YouTube.

SHARP TO PROVIDE HUNDREDS OF LED TVs TO BRING THE BIGGER PICTURE TO TED2012 CONFERENCES

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 14:24:00 Z

LONG BEACH, CA February 27, 2012 -- Sharp will showcase its LED TVs, residential PV solar appliance and solar charging stations as the new TV and display sponsor for the TED2012 Conference, in Long Beach CA, and at conference simulcast, TEDActive, in Palm Springs, CA.

“From the world’s first 80-inch class LED TV to making solar energy more accessible, we are excited to demonstrate our leadership in innovative technologies at a conference dedicated to spreading new ideas,” said Bob Scaglione, chief marketing officer of Sharp Electronics Corporation.

Sharp will provide more than 200 AQUOS LED smart TVs to the conference in large screen size classes from 40-inch class to 80-inch class. In Long Beach, TED attendees will be able to experience the live presentations on big, beautiful TVs from almost any space in the venue including dressing rooms, the ballroom, the lodge, the balcony, the press room and meeting spaces. In Palm Springs at the Riviera Resort and Spa, televisions will be on display in the grand ballroom, foyer/bookstore, pool area, arcade and show lounge.

Sharp's AQUOS LED TVs offer conference-goers an immersive experience including the world’s largest available LED TV, the LC-80LE632U in an 80-inch screen size class. An International CES Innovations 2012 Design and Engineering Awards Honoree, the LC-80LE632U offers more than double the screen area of a 55-inch class TV. Sharp's unique LCD production capabilities, which include the industry’s only 10th Generation LCD factory and proprietary technologies, provide a tremendous advantage in supplying the market with superior large screen TVs.

Sharp is also showcasing SunSnap™, its new residential PV solar appliance. The installation was completed in collaboration with LivingHomes®, which introduced the LivingHome C6, its first low-cost LivingHome at the Long Beach Performing Arts Center for TED attendees to visit. The Zero Energy, Zero Carbon, Energy Star® certified and LEED® Platinum-certifiable prefabricated home combines world-class architecture and an unparalleled commitment to healthy and sustainable construction. Designed for ease-of-installation, SunSnap modules were easily integrated into the building design, and can easily be scaled up to offset the energy usage of the entire home.

Situated at the Arena Turnaround of the Long Beach Performing Arts Center, Sharp is providing TED attendees the opportunity to charge their portable electronic devices using the latest in solar-power technology. Equipped with six USB 2.1 amp ports, the stations provide off-grid power for devices including cell phones and tablets while emitting no CO2. Sharp's solar-powered charging stations work by storing electricity generated from sunlight in storage batteries to provide power 24 hours a day to the USB ports.

“TED has had the pleasure of collaborating with many of the world’s most groundbreaking brands. Our partnerships allow us to encourage and expand the dialogue of innovation,” said Ronda Carnegie, Head of Global Partnerships at TED.

Sharp’s market-leading selection of large-screen LED TVs offers a wide array of choices to consumers, including more than 20 models in screen size classes of 60-inches or larger, many featuring 3D in 120Hz or 240Hz panel options. Only Sharp offers Quattron™ technology, which adds a yellow pixel to provide a billion more colors. All Sharp AQUOS LED TVs meet or exceed ENERGY STAR® version 5.3 standards, drawing a relatively small amount of power for their screen sizes. The 80” class LC-80LE632U is the most energy-efficient flat-panel TV available today, as measured by power consumption per square inch. On average, it costs just $22 per year in electricity use to operate.

Sharp Solar is working toward the day when every American home and business will draw its electricity from the sun. With a half century of experience in photovoltaic production, Sharp is one of the only PV manufacturers that’s been in business longer than its warranty. The SunSnap Solution is a home appliance that will help consumers and contractors more easily realize the value of home-generated solar by removing barriers to solar at home through a simplified product design and installation process. Sharp's solar-powered charging stations work by storing electricity generated from sunlight in storage batteries to provide power 24 hours a day to the USB ports. A technology breakthrough, Sharp's modules incorporate solar cells with an advanced surface texturing process to increase light absorption and improve efficiency.

For more information visit Sharp Electronics Corporation at www.sharpusa.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and watch us on YouTube.

SHARP ANNOUNCES ALLIANCE WITH AGILIANT, INC., COMBINING WORLD-CLASS IMAGING AND TECHNOLOGY WITH MANAGED SERVICES CAPABILITIES

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 14:41:00 Z

MAHWAH, NJ, February 16, 2012 -- Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America, a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, today announced a new strategic alliance and technology standardization agreement with Agiliant, Inc., the master managed services provider behind the Agiliant Affiliate Network™ (AAN). The relationship positions Sharp’s world-class imaging and technology products as a standard brand of the MITOS™ (Managed Information Technology and Output Services) solution marketed and delivered by Agiliant and across the entire AAN.

The AAN consists of leading independent service providers nationwide, exclusively licensed to market MITOS, an integration of Managed Print Services (MPS) and Managed Network Services (MNS) delivered as a single, coordinated managed services solution for businesses of all sizes.

“Sharp’s leadership in developing advanced enterprise technology makes this alliance a tremendous value to Agiliant and the AAN as a standard product platform and an important foundation from which we will continue to evolve and enhance MITOS,” said Gary Stevens, CEO, Agiliant.

AAN members will gain access to Sharp products, as well as all benefits of the program collaboratively developed by Sharp and Agiliant. Agiliant is now able to further enhance its ability to scale and evolve MITOS to provide its Affiliates a comprehensive imaging technology platform in conjunction with other select IT products and services. This collaboration will allow Sharp’s independent dealer network to capitalize on convergence of managed print and managed IT services, with a streamlined program for entry into the AAN.

“This collaboration with Agiliant and the AAN builds on Sharp’s continuing efforts to support and grow our dealer network, a key component in our enterprise technology ecosystem,” said Richard Boomsma, senior vice president, sales, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “By infusing the channel with the tools they need to provide a vast array of IT services, we are furthering our goal of delivering the comprehensive product portfolio that Sharp clients need in order to grow. This a great example of value-add products that Sharp will be launching in 2012.”

For more information about the complete line of Sharp document solution products, contact Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America, Sharp Plaza, Mahwah, N.J. 07495-1163, or call 800-BE-SHARP. For online product information, visit Sharp’s Web site at sharpusa.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and watch us on YouTube.

For more information about Agiliant, Inc. , the innovative MITOS solution or the Agiliant Affiliate Network (AAN), visit Agiliant online, email marketing@agiliant.com or call 425-250-7214.

SHARP IMAGING AND INFORMATION COMPANY OF AMERICA EXPANDS DIRECT, LOCAL SALES OPERATIONS WITH SHARP BUSINESS SYSTEMS OF GEORGIA

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:55:00 Z

Mahwah, NJ, February 2, 2012 -- Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA) today announced that it is expanding its direct regional sales operation with the opening of a new Sharp Business Systems branch in Alpharetta, Georgia. Sharp Business Systems of Georgia opened today as the eleventh branch of the division.

SIICA purchased Atlanta-area DocuTeam to launch Sharp Business Systems in Georgia. DocuTeam has served the market since 1998, gaining a reputation for superior service and commitment to its customers. Over the years, the company has expanded to five offices, more than 100 employees, and 10,000 customers. All employees of DocuTeam have been asked to join the Sharp team and will provide seamless service to new and existing customers throughout Georgia.

Moving forward, Sharp Business Systems of Georgia will offer their customers Sharp’s award-winning line of advanced office products and solutions, including MFPs, display products, and applications for streamlining office workflow. The company will continue to provide the same high level of service and also continue to serve existing equipment and contract agreements.

Sharp Business Systems of Georgia will be managed by its current president, Jim McCarter. With more than 30-years in the industry, McCarter brings vast knowledge and experience to Sharp. “We are pleased to become a branch of Sharp Business Systems and are excited about partnering with one of the best brands in the industry to continue our strong growth,” said McCarter. “We share Sharp’s philosophy of outstanding customer service and the delivery of high-quality products and solutions. We look forward to a relationship that positions us with expanded resources and better programs to offer our customers.”

Sharp Business Systems Strategy

SIICA has established 11 local Sharp Business Systems branches since the first branch opening in Arizona in 2006. Since then, the direct sales division has expanded into 30 locations through growth initiatives within the organization. “Sharp Business Systems has contributed to Sharp’s growing presence in key U.S. markets,” said Doug Albregts, president, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “Our direct branch strategy complements our independent dealer channel, enabling Sharp to better understand customer requirements and deliver the product portfolio that meets their needs.”

SHARP UNVEILS NEW LINE-UP OF MULTI-FUNCTIONAL BLU-RAY DISC PLAYERS AND SOUND SYSTEMS

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 15:13:00 Z

Las Vegas, NV, January 9, 2012 -- Sharp Electronics Corporation today unveiled two new multi-function Blu-ray Disc players as well as a line of sound bars and audio systems. These new products will be available in spring of 2012. Distinguishing highlights include the evolution of Sharp’s Blu-ray players to multi-functional devices for entertainment content management and new sound bar and desktop solutions for audio enthusiasts and novices alike.

“Consumers are looking to seamlessly integrate all their entertainment devices for the ultimate in ease and performance,” said Jim Sanduski, vice president, strategic product marketing, Sharp Electronics Marketing Company of America, a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation. “Our new lineup of Blu-ray and audio products perfectly complement our large screen televisions with compelling features and performance.”

More than Just a Blu-ray Player

As the TV has become the centerpiece to most entertainment centers, aggregating content from various sources is a key interest of consumers. Sharp will showcase two new Blu-ray Disc players, the BD-AMS10U and BD-AMS20U. Both models incorporate features from the new SmartCentral interface; the “super picture” setting which improves image resolution by integrating pixel information from lower resolution video from a DVD source or streaming content and restores missing image information while enhancing image details; DLNA^® interface; and AQUOS^® Pure mode which creates an optimized color pallet for AQUOS TVs.

BD-AMS10U: Includes a USB interface for external hard drives for storage and playback and easy integration with other media sources such as digital cameras. This model is wireless LAN ready for streaming content including Netflix^®, VUDU^™ and YouTube^™.

Availability: March
MSRP: $179.99

BD-AMS20U: Features a wireless LAN to easily connect with the web and access online content, USB interface for external hard drive ports, and a unique smart phone interface via Mobile High-definition Link^™ (MHL). Via MHL, Android^™ users can access and engage their mobile apps and content (i.e. music and videos) via their home entertainment system. While connected with the system, the mobile device also receives power and is charged.

Availability: April
MSRP: $199.99

Added Flexibility to Sound Bar Family

The new sound bar products for 2012 build on years of success from their predecessors. These new models are the ideal audio companions to a home entertainment system, offering flexibility for any horizontal, vertical, or wall mounted set-up while providing exceptional sound at varying price ranges with a sleek and unobtrusive look.

HT-SL75: 2.1 system with a 1” (h) speaker bar that matches the AQUOS TV line 60” – 70” Horizontal / Vertical. It also includes an auto on/circuit, HDMI^® input 1.4a 3D Pass Thru and an active RMS 100W subwoofer for optimal sound. Wall mounting hardware, vertical stands and a HDMI cable are packaged with the unit.

Availability: Current
MSRP: $329.99

HT-SL77: 2.1 system with a 1” (h) center speaker for a low profile design that is adjustable to match the AQUOS TV line 46”/52”/60”/70” Horizontal and 60” – 70” Vertical. It also incorporates a wireless subwoofer that can be setup in any location, within a 25’ range. Wall mounting hardware, vertical stands, and a HDMI cable are supplied with the model.

Availability: April
MSRP: $449.99

Executive / Micro / Mini Shelf Systems

Sharp rounds-out its new audio products with a number of expertly designed product lines highlighting the convergence of functionality, like new docking compatibility with iPhone^® and iPad^® devices, and form, with sleek lines and a small footprint.

XL-HF201P / XL-HF301P / XL-HF401P – Executive Audio Systems (key features):

Micro Receiver style with RMS 100W total (50 watts Per Channel)
iPhone & iPod^® Dock (top docking)
iPad USB connection /playback
Portable player connection via 3.5mm audio input
CD Player with MP3 and WMA compatibility
Two way speakers with dome tweeters and removable grilles
Pro type speaker connection with wire / post connections
Volume auto fade-in
Upgraded speaker drivers w/dome tweeter (301P model only)
Airplay^™ music streaming and network connection iPad stand (401P model only)

Availability: XL-HF201P May
MSRP: $249.99

Availability: XL-HF301P June
MSRP: $329.99

Availability: XL-HF401P August
MSRP: $399.99

DK-KP80P / DK-KP95P – Slim Micro Audio Systems (key features):

Slim Micro System with RMS 50W total power 25W per channel
iPad stand supplied
iPhone & iPod Docking (top docking), iPad connection via USB
Powered open/close vertical CD Door
USB connection /playback
Portable player connection via 3.5mm audio input
Vertical CD player with MP3 and WMA compatibility
Text navigation for MP3 and WMA playback
Headphone output jack
Airplay / DLNA WiFi streaming for MP3, WMA playback (DK-KP95P model only)

Availability: Current
MSRP: $199.99 (DK-KP80P) $329.99 (DK-KP95P)

CD-DH950P – Mini Component System (key features):

iPod / iPhone docking slot with menu control and charging
CD-R/RW, MP3, WMA playable formats
Two-line text navigation for MP3 and WMA playback
Five-disc multi-play CD changer
RMS 240W total output
Full logic cassette deck
Two-way speaker system
AM/FM tuner with 40 Presets
Full function remote
Bass / treble settings
X Bass (Extra Bass System)
Built in clock/sleep timer

Availability: Current
MSRP: $249.99

CD-DHS1050P – Mini Component System (key features):

iPod / iPhone docking slot with menu control and charging
Separate subwoofer (150W)
CD-R/RW, MP3, WMA playable formats
Two-line text navigation for MP3 and WMA playback.
Five-disc multi-play CD changer
RMS 350W total output
Full logic cassette deck
Two-way speaker system
AM/FM tuner with 40 Presets
Full function remote
Bass / treble settings
X Bass (Extra Bass System)
Built in clock/sleep timer

Availability: Current
MSRP: $269.99

For more information on what Sharp announced at CES, please visit www.SharpUSANews.com. For more information visit Sharp Electronics Corporation at www.sharpusa.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and watch us on YouTube.

SEE THE BIGGER PICTURE: SHARP BRINGS INNOVATIVE AND INTERACTIVE VIEWING EXPERIENCES TO CES IN 2012

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 15:02:00 Z

Las Vegas, NV, January 9, 2012 -- Sharp comes to CES with a number of innovative new products and technologies designed to redefine the way consumers view and interact with their content. In a move to build upon their leadership in large-screen LED TVs, Sharp has focused its efforts for 2012 towards offering consumers the most immersive experiences possible, illustrated in the company’s new booth design.

“The products we are showcasing demonstrate Sharp’s passion for creating innovative technologies that exceed consumers’ expectations,” said John Herrington, president of Sharp Electronics Marketing Company of America, a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation. “From large screen televisions to interactive touchscreen displays to the latest in solar technology, the products on display are designed to enhance people's lives at home, work, and everywhere in between.”

A highlight of Sharp’s CES introductions is the LC-80LE844U 80-inch (80-inch diagonal) class AQUOS^®3D LED TV. It is the world’s first 80-inch screen size class 3D LED TV, offering more than double the screen area of a 55-inch class. The full HD 1080p LC-80LE844U features Sharp’s Quattron^™ technology for more colors and the brightest 3D images, with full array LED backlighting and 240Hz to virtually eliminate blur during fast-moving video. It also offers built-in WiFi, and access to the most popular apps such as Netflix^®, Hulu^®, Facebook^®, CinemaNow^® and YouTube^™ through Sharp’s new SmartCentral^™ smart TV user interface.

Details of the new products and technologies showcased at CES:

A BIG TV Line-Up

Sharp will be launching its full line of 2012 AQUOS LED TVs, ranging in size from 32-inch (31 ½-inch diagonal) to 80-inch (80-inch diagonal) screen size classes and includes more than 20 models with screen sizes of 60-inches or larger, with many of those models featuring 3D. Many large screen models have built-in WiFi and all 60-inch+ class models will feature Sharp’s new SmartCentral smart TV user interface. All AQUOS Quattron models feature the new Quad Pixel Plus II, which offers even greater detail and smoother lines and color transitions. The 9 Series features full array LED backlighting with local dimming to improve picture quality and deliver a superior viewing experience. Sharp AQUOS LED TVs meet ENERGY STAR^™ standard version 5.3 and all Sharp 60-inch+ class LED TVs average less than $22 of electricity per year.

Smarter Television

A newly designed, customizable and intuitive user interface, Sharp’s SmartCentral^™ is designed to be the hub of the Sharp TV experience. Models incorporating the full screen SmartCentral interface feature picture-in-picture, content search, web browsing capability, and access to the most popular apps including Facebook, YouTube, Flickr^®, and Netflix. In addition, users will be able to set up to four members of the household with a customizable interface and favorites for each user. SmartCentral will be available on all new 60-inch class and larger Sharp AQUOS LED TVs. Another smart feature is Sharp AQUOS Beamzit^™, a free media-sharing app that allows users to wirelessly send photos, music and video to a Sharp AQUOS Wi-Fi enabled television from their IOS^® or Android^™ smart phone or tablet.¹

Ownership Experience

Most smart TVs from Sharp come equipped with Sharp’s unique, complimentary AQUOS Advantage LiveSM customer support program. AQUOS Advantage Live allows trained advisors to remotely connect via the Internet to AQUOS TVs to assist with setup, troubleshooting and picture optimization.

Seeing is Believing with ICC-4K

In its efforts to provide consumers with the best big entertainment viewing experiences, Sharp unveiled its ICC-4K LED TV.² Developed jointly with I-cubed Research Center Inc, ICC-4K provides four times 1080p resolution, resulting in a much higher picture quality. ICC, Integrated Cognitive Creation Technology, presents a clearer more lifelike image. The ICC-4K technology achieves not only intelligently up-scales from HD to 4K but also real-viewing equivalent to the natural world.

AQUOS Freestyle

For consumers looking for ultra-thin LED TVs that offers flexible placement within the home, Sharp presented its AQUOS Freestyle concepts. Shown in four screen size classes from 20-inch class (20 1/25” diagonal), 32- (31 ½” diagonal), 40- (40” diagonal) and 60-inch class (60 1/32”) -- AQUOS Freestyle models feature a significantly slimmer and lighter design than most LED TVs. These TVs receive high definition video via WiFi so they can be easily positioned just about anywhere in the home where there is a power outlet.

The Best of the Best

Sharp is also showcasing the highly acclaimed, award-winning ELITE LED TV series. Industry pundits have called Elite televisions the best picture quality available in the market and the Home Technology Specialists of America (HTSA) named the Elite TV Video Product of the Year. Sharp’s Elite LED TVs are designed to be the best televisions ever created. The result of a unique and exciting collaboration between Sharp and Pioneer^®, two of the world’s leading audio/video product manufacturers, Elite LED TVs feature some of the most innovative video and audio technologies available on the market to provide discerning audiophiles, videophiles and luxury consumers an unparalleled home theater experience.

Projecting Precision

Sharp unveiled its latest 3D ready high-definition DLP^®home theater projector. Providing unparalleled 3D visuals, the XV-Z30000 features 50000:1 contrast ratio and 1600 ANSI lumens to deliver superior brightness and astounding clarity. A 6-Segment 5x Color Wheel provides for flicker-free, high-grade images and accurate color reproduction. The XV-Z30000 allows for flexible installation options and easy adjustment with center lens and lens shift. It incorporates DLP technology with mirror-based components to use light more efficiently by bringing more light from lamp to screen. The dual IC XV-Z30000 reproduces high quality 3D pictures with virtually no cross talk.

Interactive Display System

The best viewing experiences don’t need to be confined to the home. At CES 2012, Sharp showcased its state of the art interactive meeting room display, bringing big screen collaborative technology to the workplace, the PN-L802B. Sharp’s 80-Inch Class (80” diagonal) Full-Array LED Backlit Touch-Panel Display is a complete interactive and digital solution for collaborative meetings, presentations, video conferencing, live data and interactive digital signage. This digital meeting solution offers full HD 1920 x 1080 resolution, providing a higher quality visual display than a traditional projector, in addition to the touch-screen capabilities, creating a truly hands-on experience.

Not Just a Blu-ray^™ Player

As the large screen TV has become the centerpiece to most entertainment centers, aggregating content from various sources is a key interest of consumers. Sharp will showcase two new multi-function AQUOS Media Stations, the BD-AMS10U and BD-AMS20U. Both models feature the new SmartCentral interface; the “super picture” setting which realistically improves image resolution by integrating pixel information from lower resolution video from a DVD source and restores missing image information while enhancing image details; and AQUOS Pure mode which creates an optimized color pallet for AQUOS LED TVs; and a unique smart phone interface through Mobile High-definition Link^™ (MHL). Using MHL, users can access and engage their mobile apps and content (i.e. music and videos) via their home entertainment system. While connected with the system, the mobile device also receives power and is charged.

Added Flexibility to Sound Bar Family

The new sound bar products for 2012 build on years of success and key learnings from their predecessors. These new models (HT-SL75, HT-SL72, HT-SL77) are the ideal audio companions to a home entertainment system, offering flexibility to any set-up while providing exceptional sound at varying price ranges with a sleek and unobtrusive look. The centerpiece of the collection, the HT-SL77, is a 2.1 system with a 1” height for a low profile design that is adjustable to match the AQUOS TV line. It also incorporates a wireless subwoofer that can be setup in any location, within a 25’ range. Wall mounting hardware is also supplied.

Executive / Mini / Micro Shelf Systems

Sharp rounds-out its new audio products with a number of expertly designed shelf systems highlighting the convergence of functionality, such as docking compatibility with iPhone^® and iPad^® devices, and form, with sleek lines and a small footprint.

Harnessing the Sun with SunSnap^™

In continuing its mission to make solar power more accessible to homeowners, Sharp’s Solar Energy Solutions Group has introduced the SunSnap AC Solution, a new retail-friendly solar electric appliance designed to expand and simplify the mainstream adoption and use of residential solar energy. The scalable, affordable appliance starts at less than $1,000 and features black-on-black Sharp photovoltaic (PV) modules, making the roof installation more aesthetically pleasing. SunSnap helps homeowners more easily realize the value of home-generated solar by removing barriers to solar at home through a simplified product design and installation process. As a scalable PV appliance, SunSnap offers homeowners the ability to install a system that meets their budget, roof space and personal energy needs. A small, modestly priced “starter kit” featuring as few as one solar appliance can be initially installed and the system can then be expanded in the future as often as desired.

Solar Charging Station

Situated at the front of the Las Vegas Convention Center, Sharp is providing CES attendees the opportunity to charge their portable electronic devices using the latest in solar-power technology. Equipped with six USB 2.1 amp ports, the station provides off-grid power for devices including cell phones and tablets while emitting no CO2. Sharp's solar-powered charging stations work by storing electricity generated from sunlight in storage batteries to provide power 24 hours a day to the USB ports. A technology breakthrough, Sharp's modules incorporate solar cells with an advanced surface texturing process to increase light absorption and improve efficiency. Sharp, the solar industry leader for more than a half-century, powers more homes and businesses than any other solar manufacturer in the world.

8K Technology

Sharp is presenting a next generation technological breakthrough through the demonstration of 8K resolution on an 85-inch (85 1/25” diagonal) screen size class display. The world’s first 8K ultra high definition capable display, with an astounding 7680 x 4320 resolution, the equivalent of 16x the resolution of HDTV, presents an unprecedented level of incredibly detailed, high quality images. The unique LED panel and proprietary high-vision video technologies solidifies Sharp as the LED technology leader.

All of these innovations and more are seen in Sharp’s booth at CES, which is located in the Las Vegas Convention Center, Central Hall, Booth #10916. This year’s booth features a new look focusing on the three key themes for Sharp -- Improving our Lives, Caring for our Environment and Enabling our Future.

For more information on what Sharp announced at CES, please visit www.SharpUSANews.com. For more information about the company, visit Sharp Electronics Corporation at www.sharpusa.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and watch us on YouTube.

SHARP UNVEILS NEW 3D HIGH DEFINITION DLP HOME THEATER PROJECTOR

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 14:53:00 Z

3D 1080p high definition front projector
Motorized lens shift function and 2x optical zoom lens
6-segment, 5x speed color wheel
50,000:1 contrast ratio (in high contrast mode)
Two sets of 3D glasses included

Las Vegas, NV, January 9, 2012 -- Sharp unveiled its latest 3D capable high-definition DLP home theater projector. Providing unparalleled 3D visuals, the XV-Z30000 features 50000:1 contrast ratio and 1600 ANSI lumens to deliver superior brightness, astounding clarity, and color accuracy.

“No matter what the content, the XV-Z30000 offers consumers a compelling entertainment projection solution,” said Jim Sanduski, vice president, strategic product marketing, Sharp Electronics Marketing Company of America, a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation. “With a focus on providing consumers with superior entertainment experiences, this front projector is ideal for the dedicated home theater or viewing room and is a welcome addition to any home entertainment experience.”

Part of the XV-Z30000’s superior picture quality is due to the DLP advantage. All Sharp front projectors incorporate mirror-based components that use light more efficiently by bringing more light from lamp to screen. In addition, with Sharp’s proprietary digital image ICs, the XV-Z30000 reproduces high quality 3D picture with low cross talk and flicker.

The projector’s lens functions also make it a good choice for those looking for a high-quality home theater experience. It features flexible installation with center lens and lens shift; the center lens design allows for easy adjustment; and the wide range horizontal and vertical lens shift function allows for flexible installation. In addition, with the motorized lens shift function, customers can select their preferable setting position. The projector also has control function with Creston, Control 4, AMX, and RS 232C port and LAN control via network.

Adding to the XV-Z30000’s appeal is its ease of use. With the wide range 2x optical zoom, users can select the preferable ceiling mount position in the room. Or, for spontaneous projection, the projector is portable and can be positioned on a table. The resize function (V-stretch) allows users to choose a 2.35:1 wide aspect image (Cinema scope). It also includes a One Touch Play function, which automatically turns on the projector when the user pushes the playback button of the playback equipment. Also, the System Standby function places the playback equipment into standby mode when the projector is turned off.

The XV-Z30000 offers extensive connectivity with two HDMI^® inputs. To further enhance the viewing experience, two sets of 3-D glasses are included. The XV-Z30000’s other included accessories are an IR emitter, IR emitter cable, remote control, and two R-6 batteries.

Availability and Pricing

The XV-Z30000 will be available in March 2012 at a Manufacturer’s Suggested List Price (MSLP) of $4,999.99.

SHARP MAKES BIGGER, BETTER WITH A NEW LARGE-SCREEN LED TV LINE-UP, SMART FEATURES AND ENHANCED PICTURE QUALITY

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 14:37:00 Z

Las Vegas, NV, January 9, 2012 -- Introducing more than 20 large screen 60-inch plus class TVs, Sharp today announced its new line of AQUOS^® LED TVs, featuring picture quality enhancements, advanced smart connectivity and new designs. Serving as its flagship model, Sharp unveiled the first 80-inch (80” diagonal) screen size class Quattron^™ 3D LED TV, available in April 2012.

“As the number one market share leader in the large screen television market, we’re excited to provide consumers with more choices, better designs and innovative features,” said John Herrington, president of Sharp Electronics Marketing Company of America, a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation. “It’s clear that consumers are looking for the biggest television experience coupled with the highest picture quality possible, which is exactly what Sharp is delivering in 2012.”

The New 2012 Line-Up

Sharp will expand upon its market-leading selection of large-screen LED TVs in 2012 by offering a wider array of choices to consumers, including more than 20 models in screen size classes of 60-inches or larger, many featuring 3D in 120Hz or 240Hz panel options. The AQUOS Quattron models will feature the new Quad Pixel Plus II technology. All Sharp AQUOS LED TVs meet or exceed ENERGY STAR^® version 5.3 standards, drawing a relatively small amount of power for their screen sizes. The 80” class LC-80LE632U is the most energy-efficient flat-panel TV available today, as measured by power consumption per square inch. On average, it costs just $22 per year in electricity use to operate.

Taking the 80-inch Class to a New Dimension

In September 2011, Sharp launched the industry’s largest LED TV with its 80-inch class LC-80LE632U, providing more than twice the screen area of a 55-inch TV. Today, Sharp is taking the 80-inch class TV to a new dimension with the launch of the new LC-80LE844U. Available in April, the full HD 1080p LC-80LE844U features a vivid 3D image, employing Sharp’s Quattron technology with full array LED backlighting and a newly developed 240Hz AQUOS LCD panel to virtually eliminate blur during fast-moving video. The LC-80LE844U also boasts built-in WiFi, 4 HDMI^® inputs and the new SmartCentral user interface.

Enhanced Picture Quality

Sharp is introducing Quad Pixel Plus II, the latest innovation for its exclusive Quattron technology. Quad Pixel Plus II, available on the 60-inch (60 1/32” diagonal) and 70-inch (69 ½” diagonal) classes Sharp AQUOS Quattron 8 and 9 series LED TVs, offers even greater detail, smoother lines and color transitions. Sharp is improving picture quality even more in the 9 Series with the introduction of full array LED backlighting with local dimming, which provides deep black levels and an optimal contrast ratio, while reducing energy consumption. Local dimming allows specific groups of LEDs to be dimmed for greater control of brightness and darkness in different areas of the screen for outstanding black levels.

Ownership Experience

AQUOS connected TV owners have access to AQUOS Advantage LIVE^℠,Sharp’s unique, complimentary customer support program. AQUOS Advantage Live allows trained advisors to remotely connect via the Internet to AQUOS TVs to assist with setup, troubleshooting and picture optimization. And with LIVE answer, Sharp’s experts are available to customers through a dedicated line, 1-87-SEE-AQUOS, providing instantaneous, remote access to representatives. SmartCentral will be integrated in most of Sharp’s new 2012 LED TVs, including the 6, 7, 8 and 9 Series.

The Smarter TV -- SmartCentral

The TV is the entertainment hub of the home with consumers demanding the ability to easily access more types of content directly from their TV. Sharp is answering this demand with SmartCentral, a newly designed easy to use, intuitive and customizable user interface. Select models give consumers the ability to search for content, browse the web and access many of the most popular applications, including Netflix^®,Hulu^™,Facebook^®,CinemaNow^® and YouTube^™ among others. Users can customize their experience with personalized settings, including selecting favorite apps, and choosing from multiple wallpapers and with select models, two viewing formats – full screen or dock.

Another smart feature is Sharp AQUOS Beamzit^™, a free media-sharing app that allows users to wirelessly send photos, music and video to a Sharp AQUOS Wi-Fi enabled television from their IOS^® or Android^™ smart phone or tablet.*

Sharp AQUOS Quattron 9 Series 3D LED TVs

Sharp’s full HD 1080p 9 Series AQUOS Quattron 3D LED TVs in screen size classes of 60- and 70-inches (LC-60LE945U and LC-70LE945U) offer advanced LED technology with Sharp’s brightest Full HD Active 3D panel. They incorporate Quattron Quad Pixel Plus II and full array LED backlighting with local dimming to improve picture quality and deliver a superior viewing experience. The 240Hz panel improves picture quality further by virtually eliminating blur and artifacts from fast-moving video.

The 9 Series features Sharp’s new SmartCentral and built-in WiFi. With five HDMI^® inputs, consumers will be able to connect a variety of devices – including computers, to Blu-ray Disc^™ players, DVRs, camcorders, sound bar systems and video game consoles – directly to their TV.

Introduction: Summer

Sharp AQUOS Quattron 8 Series 3D LED TVs

Sharp’s 8 Series AQUOS Quattron 3D LED TVs in screen size classes of 60-, 70- and 80-inches (LC-60LE847U, LC-70LE847U and LC-80LE844U) offer a sleeker look with a newly designed ultra-slim bezel with a black brushed aluminum finish. The 80-inch class model features full array LED, and the 60- and 70-inch class models are edge-lit LED, all with Quattron Quad Pixel Plus II technology and 240Hz.

Like the 9 Series, the 8 series offers full HD 1080p with built-in WiFi and SmartCentral. The 8 Series includes four HDMI inputs.

Introduction: April
MSRP: LC-60LE847U, $3,199; LC-70LE847U, $4,199; LC-80LE844U, $6,499

Sharp AQUOS 7 Series 3D LED TVs

Sharp’s new 7 Series AQUOS 3D TVs models in screen size classes of 60- and 70-inches (LC-60LE745U and LC-70LE745U) also feature a newly designed ultra-slim bezel design with a rich black-brushed aluminum finish. These Full HD Active 3D edge-lit LED TVs feature Sharp’s high-performance AQUOS LCD Panel, full HD 1080p and 120Hz refresh rate. The 7 Series also features built-in WiFi, SmartCentral and four HDMI inputs.

Introduction: March
MSRP: LC-60LE745U, $2,699; LC-70LE745U, $3,599

Sharp AQUOS 6/5 Series LED TVs

Sharp’s 6/5 series comprises five different models in screen size classes of 42-, 46-, 52-, 60- and 70-inches (LC-42LE540U, LC-46LE540U, LC-52LE640U, LC-60LE640U, LC-70LE640U) and includes a high-performance AQUOS LCD Panel, edge lit LED backlighting, 120Hz Fine Motion Enhanced, and a new narrow bezel design. Like other Sharp series, these models offer built-in WiFi and access to Sharp’s newly designed SmartCentral user interface (docking layout), access to the most popular apps and AQUOS Advantage Live (LE640 Series only). Four HDMI inputs offer multiple ports to connect to your favorite devices.

Introduction: LE640 February; LE540 March
MSRP: LC-52LE640U, $1,699; LC-60LE640U, $2,699; LC-70LE640U, $3,299

SHARP EXPANDS ITS BIG, BROAD LINE-UP OF LARGE-SCREEN INTERACTIVE, TOUCH-PANEL DISPLAY SYSTEMS – NOW IN AN 80-INCH CLASS (80” DIAGONAL) SCREEN SIZE CLASS

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 14:27:00 Z

Las Vegas, NV, January 9, 2012 -- Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, is furthering its reputation as a world leader in large-screen interactive touch-panel display systems with the launch of an 80-inch class (80” diagonal) interactive display system, AQUOS^® Board, a complete solution to facilitate global collaboration in a way that’s never been seen before.

The 80-inch class AQUOS Board combines a high-performance interactive display with a well-designed, comprehensive system for uniquely collaborative sessions – and continues to set a new standard in price-performance for touch-screen displays. This latest addition to Sharp’s evolving family of state-of-the-art, 60-inch class (60 1/32” diagonal), 70-inch class (69-1/2" diagonal) and 80-inch class display tools allows organizations to operate in a visual and truly collaborative way, creating a dynamic and interactive workplace experience.

This incredible display is produced by Sharp’s state of the art, Gen-10 LCD manufacturing facility in Sakai City, Japan. The AQUOS Board interactive display replaces traditional, static projection solutions with spectacular performance, delivering the high-definition quality we’ve come to expect in our homes.

“Similar to what our innovative and industry-leading large-screen TVs are doing for the home, Sharp’s large-screen interactive touch-panel display systems are revolutionizing the workplace,” said Doug Albregts, president, SIICA. “The 80-inch class AQUOS Board provides endless collaboration, information and entertainment options and is a welcome addition to Sharp’s family of solutions designed to improve our workplace lives.”

Designed to optimize and integrate a wide range of applications companies need in order to think big and disseminate information on a global scale – such as work group collaboration, video conferencing, interactive signage and video walls – the AQUOS Board delivers more than double the screen area of a 55-inch class display. It is ideal for any setting that requires large-scale collaboration, information and/or entertainment options, including meeting rooms, office lobbies, schools, airports, malls, exhibit halls and hotels.

The AQUOS Board PN-L802B will be available in late February through Sharp’s network of dealers, distributors and VARs for $13,795 MSRP.

Features and Capabilities

Further facilitating global collaboration, the AQUOS Board offers business users seamless integration with presentation and video conferencing technologies, including WebEx^™, GoToMeeting^™ and Skype^™. Additionally, the system will be fully compatible with a full array of familiar Microsoft^® products (Microsoft Office Suite^®, Microsoft Windows 7^® and Microsoft touch Pack for Windows 7^®).

In addition to the PN-L802B stand-alone display, which comes with a three-year onsite parts and labor limited warranty, customers also have the option of purchasing a bundled solution. The bundle – PN-L802B-PKG –includes the AQUOS Board 80-inch class, full-array, LED backlit, interactive touch-panel display, the PN-TPC2W7 Compact Whiteboard PC and rolling cart floor stand. The whiteboard PC connects easily to the rear of the display; utilizes an Intel^® Pentium^™ dual-core 2.5 GHz processor and comes pre-loaded with Microsoft Windows 7, Sharp Pen Software™ and touch-screen drivers, and is sold with a HDMI^® connecting cable for easy system set-up.

The AQUOS Board 80-inch class LED touch-panel, with full HD 1920 x 1080 resolution, is equipped with Sharp’s UV2A photo alignment and Full Array LED backlight technologies to create an energy-efficient screen that is easy to read in most environments, regardless of ambient light.

Users can make meetings more interactive by drawing and taking notes directly on-screen, and saving new versions to their PC or printing them to a connected Sharp Multifunction Product (MFP). The intuitive software also lets users select pen colors and eraser functions easily, with a click of the touch pen button. Furthermore, existing images can be easily scanned and displayed by connecting to a networked Sharp MFP via the pen software.

The AQUOS Board is engineered for commercial 24/7 use, uninterrupted worry-free operation and comes with a three-year onsite parts and labor limited warranty. It can also function separately of the bundled solution, as a versatile LED-LCD information display.

For more information on what Sharp announced at CES, please visit www.SharpUSANews.com. For online product information, visit Sharp’s Web site at www.SharpUSA.com/monitors. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and watch us on YouTube.

SHARP THINKS BIG WITH THE LAUNCH OF THE NEW 70” CLASS (69-1/2” DIAGONAL) PROFESSIONAL LED-LCD MONITOR FOR HIGH IMPACT COMMERICAL SIGNAGE AND DISPLAY

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 14:42:00 Z

MAHWAH, NJ, January 3, 2011 -- Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, today introduced the new PN-E702. The 70” class (69-1/2” Diagonal), LCD Monitor boasts an impressive screen size and advanced photo alignment technology, creating brilliant color images with maximum impact.

Engineered to meet the demands of a wide range of commercial display and digital signage applications, the PN-E702 offers spectacular full color HD images, portrait and landscape mode compatibility and 24/7 reliability. The 70” class (69-1/2” Diagonal) display stunningly portrays video, graphics, text and more using Sharp cutting edge display technology in full 1080p HD and is best suited for public environments such as hotel lobbies, conference areas, shopping malls, transportation hubs, and sports and entertainment facilities.

“We’re committed to providing our customers with digital signage solutions that are not only reliable but also provide stunning visual display,” said Steve Brauner, senior manager, product planning for professional displays, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “At 70” class [69-1/2” diagonal], the PN-E702 is a leading example of our ongoing commitment to leverage industry leading technologies in order to provide our customers with exceptional image quality and an unparalleled product at an unprecedented price point.”

The PN-E702 is the latest product offering from Sharp that leverages industry leading LCD technologies for exceptional image quality. UV2A* technology used in this panel is extremely energy efficient, allowing for cost savings, as well as a full array LED backlight that simultaneously prevents light leakage. Sharp’s industry leading LED elements seamlessly positioned across the entire 70” class (69-1/2” diagonal) panel ensure that the screen is uniform and full HD resolution helps guarantee everything from fine text to intricate graphics are displayed crisp and clear.

This 70” class (69-1/2” diagonal) monitor delivers 62% more viewing area than a 55” class display. Sharp production capabilities, which include the industry’s only 10th Generation LCD factory, provide a tremendous advantage in supplying the market with superior large screen professional LCD displays.

Durable and engineered for year round commercial use, the PN-E702 is 24/7 certified, and is supported with a 3-year on-site limited warranty. The display can be installed in landscape, or portrait mode. The optional media player PC easily attaches to the rear of the display, providing a complete, all-in-one, digital signage display package.

Now in stock, this system will be available immediately through Sharp’s network of dealers, distributors and VARs for $7,395 MSRP. The PN-E702 is compatible with all options and accessories for Sharp PN-E™ series displays. These include the PN-TPC1 media player PC and PN-ZB01 input/output expansion board.

For more information, please write to Sharp Electronics Corporation, Professional Display Division, Sharp Plaza, Mahwah, N.J. 07495-1163, call 866-4-VISUAL (866-484-7825) or e-mail ProLCD@SharpUSA.com. For online product information, visit us online at www.sharpusa.com/monitors.

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SHARP ELECTRONICS MARKETING COMPANY OF AMERICA NAMES JAMES (JIM) SANDUSKI VICE PRESIDENT, STRATEGIC PRODUCT MARKETING

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 14:20:00 Z

MAHWAH, NJ, December 19, 2011 -- Sharp Electronics Marketing Company of America (SEMCA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, today announced that it has named Jim Sanduski Vice President of Strategic Product Marketing.

Mr. Sanduski is responsible for product marketing and development for Sharp’s entire Home Entertainment product portfolio. In addition, he will establish a new product development team and lead Sharp’s entry into next generation products in the CE space. He reports to John Herrington, President of SEMCA.

A 20 year veteran of both the CE and IT industries, Mr. Sanduski brings deep expertise in product marketing to Sharp. He has held executive-level sales and product marketing roles at top brands, helping him gain a wealth of insight into retail, product and consumer marketing.

“I’m very excited to join Sharp at this important juncture,” said Mr. Sanduski. “I look forward to helping the company expand its leadership in the large screen LED TV category while building on the company’s strength in other CE categories.”

“Jim’s experience and expertise in CE marketing makes him a great addition to Sharp’s leadership team,” said Mr. Herrington. “We are pleased to have him leading our home entertainment product marketing and development efforts, and we’re confident he will help us accelerate our market growth.”

For more information visit Sharp Electronics Corporation at www.sharpusa.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and watch us on YouTube.

JEFFREY LEOPOLD JOINS SHARP ELECTRONICS CORPORATION AS DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 14:58:00 Z

MAHWAH, NJ, November 28, 2011 -- Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC) today announced that Jeffrey Leopold has been named director of public relations. Working within the Strategic Marketing and Communications Division, Mr. Leopold is responsible for public relations activities in the U.S. for Sharp Electronics Marketing Company of America, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America and Sharp’s Solar Energy Solutions Group. Mr. Leopold reports to Bob Scaglione, chief marketing officer, Sharp Electronics Corporation.

Mr. Leopold has a strong background in public relations and marketing, working at both agencies and at corporations. At public relations firm Porter Novelli, Mr. Leopold worked on consumer brands including Gillette, Sprint, HP and Polaroid. At Ogilvy, Mr. Leopold was senior vice president, director of global communications for Ogilvy PR and Ogilvy Action. While at Disney, Mr. Leopold was responsible for promotional marketing in New York for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts.

Most recently Mr. Leopold served as director, corporate marketing for CUnet, a company focused on providing interactive marketing solutions for colleges and universities.

“I am very excited to be part of the team at Sharp Electronics Corporation and look forward to working with the group to further build Sharp’s brand in the US through PR initiatives,” said Leopold. “Sharp has a long history in creating products that are unique and relevant and I am honored to be part of a company with such a rich and robust history.”

“We are thrilled to have Jeff here at Sharp leading our public relations efforts,” said Mr. Scaglione. “His public relations background in both consumer and b2b, along with his experience in brand building is a perfect fit for us at Sharp.”

For more information visit Sharp Electronics Corporation at www.sharpusa.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and watch us on YouTube.

DOUG ALBREGTS JOINS SHARP® ELECTRONICS AS PRESIDENT OF SHARP IMAGING AND INFORMATION COMPANY OF AMERICA (SIICA)

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 21:48:00 Z

MAHWAH, NJ, November 28, 2011 -- Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, today announced that Doug Albregts has joined the company’s Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA) as president. In his position, Mr. Albregts is responsible for directing the strategic growth and profitability of Sharp’s Business to Business (B2B) operations by increasing sales via channel and resellers, expanding market share and maintaining high levels of quality and innovation.

“We are fortunate to have someone with Doug Albregts’ skill set and industry experience join our organization and lead our business solutions strategy forward,” said Kozo Takahashi, CEO & Chairman of the Board, Sharp Electronics Corporation. “We are looking to Doug to successfully expand our engagement with customers, resellers and developers and take advantage of the market opportunities ahead. His customer focus, deep leadership capabilities and decisiveness will be true assets to SIICA.”

Doug Albregts brings vast experience in the B2B sector and a successful track record of developing sales and executing growth within the electronics industry. Most recently he was the vice president and general manager of the global prepaid and enterprise growth division at American Express. Prior to that, he held the position of vice president, enterprise business division, for Samsung. In that role, Albregts was responsible for strategy and development of the B2B and B2C growth initiatives as well as marketing and sales organizations. Albregts also held the position of vice president, general manager at Canvys, a division of Richardson Electronics, where he oversaw all aspects of the global division. Albregts began his career in the electronics industry at NEC. During his 12-year tenure with NEC, Albregts served in both marketing and sales positions culminating as senior vice president, sales, marketing and business development for both the commercial and consumer market segments.

"I’m very excited to have the opportunity to help expand Sharp’s leadership in its B2B industries,” said Albregts. “Sharp is recognized for its ability to engineer the industry’s most innovative and intuitive products and solutions. I look forward to supporting Sharp’s goals of leveraging core technologies into emerging markets and aligning Sharp’s development with our customers’ evolving needs.”

Doug Albregts graduated from the University of Wisconsin Madison with a Bachelor of Arts degree and also holds a Masters of Business Administration degree from Loyola University Chicago.

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, LED lighting and mobile communication and information tools. Leading brands include AQUOS® Quattron™ LCD televisions and 3DTVs, SharpVision® projectors, Insight® Microwave Drawer® ovens, Notevision® multimedia projectors and Plasmacluster® air purifiers. For more information visit Sharp Electronics Corporation at www.sharpusa.com. Follow us on Facebook, or Twitter and watch us on YouTube.

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SHARP NAMED AS CES INNOVATIONS 2012 DESIGN AND ENGINEERING AWARD HONOREE

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 09:58:00 Z

New York, New York, November 16, 2011-- Sharp Electronics Corporation announced that it has been named an International CES Innovations 2012 Design and Engineering Awards Honoree for the 80-inch class (80-inch diagonal) AQUOS, the world’s largest LED TV. Products entered in this prestigious program are judged by a preeminent panel of independent industrial designers, engineers and members of the media to honor outstanding design and engineering in cutting edge consumer electronics products across 32 product categories.

Sharp’s new AQUOS 80-inch Class LED TV (model LC-80LE632U) delivers more than double the screen area of 55-inch screen size class TVs. The full array LED backlighting system ensures uniformity in both color and brightness from edge to edge and corner to corner while also enabling an incredible dynamic contrast ratio of 6,000,000:1. The LC-80LE632U features full HD 1080p (1920 x 1080) resolution and is a Smart TV equipped with built-in Wi-Fi and full connectivity, offering apps streaming video.

“In reaching this milestone in flat-panel TV engineering, Sharp is once again redefining the term 'big screen TV,'” said John Herrington, president, Sharp Electronics Marketing Company of America. “It’s a true testament of the innovative and technical skill Sharp’s engineers bring to this industry. The AQUOS LC-80LE632U is the centerpiece of Sharp’s large-screen thrust of 2011 and we look forward to using our technological resources to push the envelope even further in 2012.”

The sheer size of the 80” class AQUOS LED TV alone creates an unmatched viewing experience. When the size is combined with the highly regarded vivid AQUOS picture quality, along with Smart TV streaming features, viewers enjoy an experience that is truly immersive. Whether watching a favorite sports team, favorite movies or video games, Sharp’s newest and largest LED TV will unquestionably take entertainment experiences to another level. Additionally, the LC-80LE632U is the most energy-efficient flat-panel TV available today, as measured by power consumption per square inch. ENERGY STAR^®qualified, the LC-80LE632U averages just $22 per year in electricity use to operate.

Sharp continues to be on the cutting edge of technology and is consistently improving its products for people all over the world through innovative technologies. Sharp’s numerous production capabilities, which include the industry’s only 10th Generation LCD factory and proprietary technologies, provide an advantage in supplying the market with a number of quality large screen televisions that fit various budgets. With the introduction of the LC-80LE632U, Sharp once again reinforces its leadership in LED and LCD technology and leads the large-screen competitive landscape.

The prestigious Innovations Design and Engineering Awards are sponsored by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA^®), the producer of the International CES, the world’s largest consumer technology tradeshow, and have been recognizing achievements in product design and engineering since 1976. The Best of Innovations honor is awarded to the products with the highest judges’ scores and will be featured in the Innovations Design and Engineering Showcase at the 2012 International CES.

The LC-80LE632U will be displayed at the 2012 International CES, which runs January 10-13, 2012 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Honorees will also be displayed at CES Unveiled: the Official Press Event of the International CES from 4-7 p.m. on Sunday, January 8 in the Venetian Ballroom of the Venetian.

The Innovations entries are judged based on the following criteria:

Engineering qualities, based on technical specs and materials used
Aesthetic and design qualities
The product’s intended use/function and user value
Unique/novel features that consumers would find attractive
How the design and innovation of the product compares to other products in the marketplace

Products chosen as an Innovations honoree reflect innovative design and engineering of the entries. Examples may include the first time various technologies are combined in a single product or dramatic enhancements to previous product designs.

Innovations 2012 Design and Engineering honoree products are featured on www.CESweb.org/Innovations, which lists product categories, as well as each product name, manufacturer information, designer, description, photo and URL.

For more information on AQUOS TVs and Sharp’s full line of consumer products, contact Sharp Electronics Corporation, Sharp Plaza, Mahwah, NJ, 07495-1163, or call 800-BE-SHARP.

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SHARP AND YSOFT PROVIDE CUSTOMERS WITH ADDITIONAL BENEFITS THROUGH THE POWER OF SHARP OSA TECHNOLOGY

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 09:23:00 Z

MAHWAH, NJ, November 14, 2011 -- Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, and YSoft announce the validation of Sharp OSA-developed integration for SafeQ, a print management and cost control solution, which is suitable for all types of businesses in any market space.

YSoft SafeQ is a server-based application that assists organizations in rationalizing a printing cost while ensuring the security of sensitive documents. YSoft SafeQ integrates with Sharp OSA-enabled devices and provides an integrated Sharp OSA-developed Embedded Terminal and Network Card Reader for authentication.

YSoft SafeQ enables businesses to increase their productivity, to secure sensitive information, and to reduce waste in all print environments. Exact cost-accounting, a high level of security, maximum availability, and one-click scan workflows are only a few of the advantages the Y Soft SafeQ print solution provides.

“YSoft is very excited about our relationship with Sharp. We believe that the SafeQ solution for Sharp OSA-enabled MFPs will allow companies to effectively control and manage their output environments, provide more printing flexibility for end users, and reduce costly waste,” says Ken Cox CEO of Y Soft North America.

“The addition of the YSoft SafeQ^® Sharp OSA Embedded Terminal to our broad portfolio of validated applications means that our mutual customers can now fully leverage the SafeQ offering with their Sharp MFP thereby enhancing document security at the device as well as simplifying total output cost management,” says Vince Jannelli, director of product management applications, SIICA.

The benefits of the SafeQ application with Sharp devices:

Tracking and accounting of all printing and copying operations
Print queue management for optimizing the printing environment and lowering costs for printing and copying
Security and rights management for ensuring security of all confidential documents and simplifying print system management
Full customer support for installation and workflow processes

YSoft’s products and services have been available in the USA since February of 2009 through Sharp authorized dealers.

For more information please contact Y Soft North America, 5751 Kroger Dr. Suite 251, Keller, TX 76244 888-761-9977, YSoft.NA@ysoft.com, or visit www.ysoft.com

For online product information, visit Sharp’s Web site www.SharpUSA.com

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SHARP ANNOUNCES NEW ULTRA-HIGH BRIGHTNESS 60” CLASS LED LCD MONITOR FOR UNPRECIDENTED HD COMMERCIAL SIGNAGE AND DISPLAY

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 12:42:00 Z

MAHWAH, NJ, November 2, 2011 -- Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, today introduced the new PN-A601. The 60" Class (60" Diagonal), LCD Monitor boasts an exceptionally high-brightness (2,000 cd/m²) and contrast ratio (up to 1,000,000:1) for excellent image quality designed for display in high ambient light environments.

Engineered for 24/7 certified commercial use, the PN-A601 stunningly portrays video, graphics, text and more using Sharp cutting edge display technology in full 1080p HD. This 60" Class (60" Diagonal) display is best suited for commercial environments such as office complexes, shopping malls, transportation hubs, college campuses and sports and entertainment facilities.

The high brightness and contrast elements provide extreme clarity and visibility of image display, even in window facing settings with high ambient light. The standard built-in brightness sensor automatically adjusts backlight brightness to accurately complement surrounding light levels, and save on energy output. The UV²A* technology used in the 60" Class (60" Diagonal) LCD monitor is extremely energy efficient, allowing for cost savings, as well as a full array LED backlight that simultaneously prevents light leakage.

“When it comes to marketing their businesses using digital signage, we know that our customers expect exceptional image quality,” said Stephen Brauner, senior manager, product planning for professional displays, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “The PN-A601 illustrates our ongoing commitment to utilizing industry leading technologies in order to provide our customers with a superior product.”

Engineered to meet the rigors of a wide range of commercial display and digital signage applications and uses, the PN-A601 is 24/7 certified, and is supported with a 3-year on-site limited warranty. The display can be installed in landscape or portrait mode. The Enlarge display mode allows for side by side installation of up to 25 monitors (in 5x5 format), enabling users to spread one image across all monitors and control output from just one PC, without the use of external processors.

Other features:

Picture-in-Picture mode capable. This allows an AV-sourced image to be displayed within a PC-sourced image (or vice versa), while Picture-by-Picture mode puts images from AV and PC sources side by side for split-screen viewing.
Mirror Display Mode. This allows the same image to be displayed on a daisy chain of PN-A601 monitors for the powerful impact of visual repetition.

Now in stock, this display is immediately available through Sharp’s network of dealers, distributors and VARs for $14,695 MSRP. The optional PN-ZR01 Control kit includes a remote control unit and a remote control sensor box. The sensor box can function as a supplementary brightness sensor.

The PN-A601 is ENERGY STAR^® qualified, and conforms to the RoHS Directive restricting the use of hazardous substances.

For more information, please write to Sharp Electronics Corporation, Professional Display Division, Sharp Plaza, Mahwah, N.J. 07495-1163, call 866-4-VISUAL (866-484-7825) or e-mail ProLCD@SharpUSA.com. For online product information, visit us online at www.sharpusa.com/monitors.

For more information visit Sharp Electronics Corporation at www.sharpusa.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and watch us on YouTube.

SHARP ADVANCES POINT OF SALE TECHNOLOGY IN THE HOSPITALITY AND RETAIL FIELDS

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 00:00:00 Z

MAHWAH, NJ, November 2, 2011 -- Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, unveils its RZ-X650 Open Platform System, a Microsoft Windows® enabled point of sale platform. Designed to work with virtually any Windows based POS software, the point of sale terminal is built for heavy daily usage and to meet various hospitality, convenience and retail needs.

“We’ve designed this latest open platform point of sale system to be durable, reliable and flexible to meet a wide variety of installation requirements for businesses and their evolving needs,” said Greg Tucker, POS product manager, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America.

With its 15" (15" Diagonal) touch-screen and seamless integration with a variety of third-party applications, this system is ready right out of the box, and helps provide a higher level of service to customers. The RZ-X650 features an IP-rated water-resistant LCD screen, making it ready for virtually any demanding retail, restaurant or convenience environment. Furthermore, the VESA standard mounting points allow the POS to be installed securely.

RZ-X650 includes an Intel® Atom™ processor N270 (1.6 GHz) and a 15" touch-screen LVDS LCD interface which makes it easy to place orders and navigate within the software. The system’s standard magnetic card reader allows for a variety of payment options, while the integrated cable management system, 1 GB standard memory (expandable to 2 GB) and ample RS-232 serial, USB and parallel ports allow for a variety of peripherals. The system comes with Microsoft Windows® POSReady 2009 (WEPOS) and DriveClone Pro backup and recovery software.

This system will be available immediately through Sharp’s network of dealers, distributors and VARs.

For more information, please write to Sharp Electronics Corporation, Point of Sale Division, Sharp Plaza, Mahwah, N.J. 07495-1163, call 201-529-8900 ext. 2 or e-mail RomagnoC@sharpsec.com.

For online product information, visit http://www.sharpusa.com/ForBusiness/POSSolutions/PointOfSaleSystems.aspx.

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SHARP SOLAR THINKS OUTSIDE THE FRAME WITH LAUNCH OF THIN FILM PHOTOVOLTAICS MODULE

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 16:14:00 +0100

CAMAS, Wash., October 18, 2011 -- Sharp Electronics Corporation’s Solar Energy Solutions Group has introduced its frameless, glass-on-glass thin film solar photovoltaic (PV) module. Beyond the appealing aesthetics, Sharp’s thin film technology offers greater savings, reliability and longevity without the frame and associated complexity, time and expense that traditional framed modules demand on the installation.

ARRA and Buy American compliant, Sharp’s thin film cell pairs amorphous silicon with a layer of its proprietary microcrystalline silicon to capture more of the solar spectrum and convert more sunlight into electricity. Produced with less than one percent of the silicon used in crystalline solar cells, Sharp’s thin film products offer a lower cost per kilowatt hour for large-scale applications. Additionally, with a low temperature coefficient for output power, thin film modules generate greater specific power than its crystalline silicon counterpart in warmer climates. This translates into as much as 10 percent more kilowatt-hours per kilowatt.

By removing the frame, Sharp’s new thin film module eliminates time-consuming grounding activities; streamlining the installation process and lowering the installation cost of the module. The frameless feature also results in less dust accumulation, requiring less frequent cleaning and maintenance, and can be installed in either landscape or portrait position. Certified to IEC 61646, the thin film modules are for behind-the-fence applications.

In tandem with the new thin film module, Sharp has launched a new Fixed-Tilt Ground Mount Structure. Designed especially for its thin film module, the Sharp utility-scale mounting system reduces installation fees by decreasing materials cost and streamlining labor. Made in the United States, the system has industry-leading adjustability—25 mm vertical, 25 mm lateral—and can be used in wind zones up to 95 miles per hour. The system was designed according to the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE 07) and the International Building Code (IBC 2006).

"With the introduction of its frameless glass-on-glass thin film module and the Fixed-Tilt Ground Mount Structure, Sharp is streamlining the thin film panel and the installation process at the same time, helping make solar power more cost effective in utility-scale applications." said Eric Hafter, senior vice president, Sharp Solar Energy Solutions Group.

The frameless glass-on-glass thin film product is backed by the Sharp 25-year limited warranty on power production. Please visit www.sharpusa.com/SolarElectricity.aspx for more information.

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SHARP SOLAR LAUNCHES SUNSNAP AC SOLUTION SYSTEM MAKING SOLAR MORE ACCESSIBLE TO HOMEOWNERS THAN EVER BEFORE

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 16:14:00 +0100

CAMAS, Wash., October 17, 2011 -- Sharp Electronics Corporation's Solar Energy Solutions Group has introduced the SunSnap AC Solution, a new retail-friendly solar electric appliance designed to expand and simplify the mainstream adoption and use of solar energy for homeowners.

The SunSnap AC Solution is a home appliance that consists of black-on-black Sharp photovoltaic (PV) modules, making the roof installation more aesthetically pleasing, and is Enphase Energized™ with high-efficiency microinverters from Enphase Energy with a new mounting assembly from Zep Solar incorporated into the module.

SunSnap will help consumers and contractors more easily realize the value of home-generated solar by removing barriers to solar at home through a simplified product design and installation process. As a scalable PV appliance, SunSnap offers homeowners the ability to install a system that meets their budget, roof space and personal energy needs. A small, modestly priced "starter kit" featuring as few as one solar appliance can be initially installed and the system can then be expanded in the future as often as desired.

"Recent consumer surveys show an overwhelming interest in transitioning to solar energy, yet many are frustrated by the various barriers to participate in solar," said Eric Hafter, senior vice president, Sharp Solar Energy Solutions Group. "Now we are offering an easy, affordable solution for just about any consumer. By introducing SunSnap, Sharp is making solar energy more accessible to the average homeowner."

SunSnap AC Solution will first be available through distributers and dealers beginning early 2012.
Sharp expects to expand SunSnap sales to retail channels such as popular consumer electronics retailers, in 2012. The basic module will be available off the shelf, starting at less than $1000.

A single SunSnap appliance begins generating from the moment of installation so consumers can realize cost savings immediately to offset energy costs of other home appliances. SunSnap helps consumers work towards energy independence, offset their carbon footprint, lower electric bills and participate in a culture shift to solar energy use.

The mounting and grounding technology is inherently simple and streamlined, fitting seamlessly into the SunSnap solution. Incorporating the Zep Groove into the PV module, we have eliminated the need for bulky rails and separate grounding hardware found in conventional mounting schemes.

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SHARP ADVANCES COLLABORATIVE TECHNOLOGY WITH A STATE OF THE ART INTERACTIVE MEETING ROOM DISPLAY

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 16:14:00 +0100

MAHWAH, NJ, September 29, 2011 -- Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, today unveils its PN-L702B, a complete interactive and digital solution for collaborative meetings, presentations, video conferencing, live data and interactive digital signage in a corporate setting.

“This solution provides the backdrop for interactive and collaborative working sessions, while setting a new standard in price-performance for touch-screen displays,” said Mike Marusic, senior vice president, Business Solutions Group, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “Imagine interacting face-to-face with your colleagues around the globe, pulling up additional content and images to illustrate your conversation, and all the while capturing detailed notes.”

PN-L702B integrates many of the tools and services that companies need to think big, on a global scale, and run effective meetings. With this solution, companies can communicate, collaborate and disseminate information in real-time, globally. This digital meeting solution offers businesses a higher quality visual display than a traditional projector, in addition to the touch-screen capabilities, creating a truly hands-on meeting experience.

“In this difficult economy, companies are turning to multi-functional technology to meet their increasingly diverse business needs,” said Steve Brauner, senior product planning manager for professional displays, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “The PN-L702B combines a high performance professional display with a well-designed, comprehensive interactive whiteboard solution that meets a variety of customers’ day to day tasks, all in one place and at a very competitive price point.”

In addition to the stand-alone display, customers have the option of purchasing the bundled solution, PN-L702B-PKG, which includes the PN-L702B 70-inch (70-inch diagonal) class full-array LED backlit interactive touch-panel display, the PN-TPC1W7 compact whiteboard PC and PN-SR760M rolling cart floor stand. The whiteboard PC connects easily to the back of the display via a provided HDMI cable.

The PN-L702B 70-inch class (69-1/2” diagonal) LED LCD touch-panel offers full HD 1920 x 1080 resolution and is equipped with Sharp’s UV²A photo alignment and Full Array LED backlight technologies to create an energy-efficient screen that is easy to read in most environments, regardless of ambient light. The touch-screen technology uses multiple infrared sensors for accurate response, pinpointing the location of the user’s onscreen finger or touch pen to virtually eliminate potential misalignment.

Users can draw and take notes directly on the on-screen images, and save new versions to their PC or print them to a connected Sharp Multifunction Product (MFP). The intuitive software enables the selection of pen colors and eraser functions with a click of the touch pen button. Connecting the PN-L702B to a networked Sharp MFP enables users to easily scan and display existing documents and images via the pen software.

The PN-L702B is engineered for commercial 24/7 use, for uninterrupted worry-free operation and comes with a three-year onsite parts and labor limited warranty. It can also function separately of the bundled solution, as a versatile LED LCD information display.

The PN-TPC1W7 Compact Whiteboard PC easily attaches to the rear of the display and utilizes a dual core Intel^® Atom^™ N330 CPU. The PN-TPC1W7 PC comes pre-loaded with Sharp Pen Software^™ and touch-screen drivers, and is sold with an HDMI^® connecting cable for easy system set-up.

The PN-L702B will be available in early October through Sharp’s network of dealers, distributors and VARs for $7,750 MSRP.

For online product information, visit Sharp’s Web site at www.SharpUSA.com/monitors.

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SHARP UNVEILS WORLD'S LARGEST LED LCD TV

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 00:00:00 +0100

MAHWAH, NJ (September 27, 2011) -- Continuing to build on its leadership in large screen LCD TVs, Sharp today introduced the largest LED LCD TV to date, the 80-inch AQUOS (80-inch diagonal) LC-80LE632U. This new TV is a full HD 1080p (1920 x 1080) Smart TV, equipped with built-in Wi-Fi and access to apps like Netflix^®,CinemaNow^® and VUDU^™ as well as Sharp’s exclusive AQUOS Advantage Live^℠ online support.

“Our 80-inch AQUOS TV delivers more than double the screen area of a 55-inch TV, for an amazing viewing experience,” said John Herrington, president, Sharp Electronics Marketing Company of America. “It’s truly like nothing else on the market. Consumers want bigger flat panel TVs for deeper, more immersive viewing experiences and that’s exactly what Sharp’s delivering here,” Herrington continued.

The AQUOS 80-inch LED LCDTV offers stunning picture quality and sleek design. The full array LED backlighting system ensures uniformity in both color and brightness from edge to edge and corner to corner while also enabling an incredible dynamic contrast ratio of 6,000,000:1. Additionally, the LC-80LE632U employs 120Hz Fine Motion Enhanced which virtually eliminates blur and motion artifacts in fast-moving video. At an incredible depth of less than four inches, the new AQUOS 80” is a stylish replacement for similar screen size rear-projection TVs, with depth of almost two feet.

With AQUOS Advantage LIVE^℠, Sharp AQUOS Advantage Advisors can remotely connect to the TV through the Internet to assist with TV setup, troubleshoot and optimize the picture quality.

The LC-80LE632U is the latest expression of Sharp’s goal of providing a large screen TV to fit virtually any need or budget. It is the centerpiece to Sharp’s large-screen push of 2011, following the release of five Sharp AQUOS 70-inch class TVs, and 10 AQUOS 60-inch class TVs.

The AQUOS LC-80LE632U Television features:

80-inch Class (80-inch diagonal) – more than double the screen area of a 55-inch Class TV;
Smart TV - delivers Netflix^®,CinemaNow^® and VUDU^™ streaming video, customized Internet content and live customer support via built-in Wi-Fi;
AQUOS Advantage LIVE^℠ - a suite of premium connected services featuring the ability for AQUOS Advantage Advisors to remotely assist customers with setup and settings management directly over the Internet, right in the comfort of their own home;
Full HD 1080p X-Gen LCD Panel – with 10-bit processing is designed with advanced pixel control to minimize light leakage and wider aperture to let more light through;
Vyper Drive - game mode eliminates perceptible lag between video game consoles and the TV display;
Dual USB Inputs - enable viewing high-resolution video, music and digital photos on the TV; 120Hz Fine Motion Enhanced – for improved fast motion picture quality

LC-80LE632U will be available in early October with an MSRP of $5,499.99 (US).

For more information on AQUOS TVs and Sharp’s full line of consumer products, contact Sharp Electronics Corporation, Sharp Plaza, Mahwah, NJ, 07495-1163, or call 800-BE-SHARP.

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SHARP BUSINESS SYSTEMS AND CHEROKEE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT DONATE 1,000 PRE-OWNED INK JET PRINTERS TO SUPPORT THE COMMUNITY AND ENVIRONMENT

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 11:49:00 +0100

MAHWAH, NJ, September 20, 2011 -- Sharp Business Systems of South Carolina recently implemented a significant Managed Print Services (MPS) program for the Cherokee County School District. Not only did this MPS program save the school district thousands of dollars, but also helped to give back to the community. As part of the MPS program, Sharp Business Systems performed a printer fleet refresh which replaced almost 1,000 older inkjet printers. The school district and Sharp Business Systems teamed up to donate the used printers to Goodwill Industries. Sharp staff removed the inkjet printers from the classrooms and repackaged the old printers with the boxes from the new units to lessen the environmental impact. And, to minimize transportation, the printers were stored in the Sharp Business Systems warehouse until enough units were accumulated to fill a delivery truck and then shipped to the Goodwill Greenville location. Some of the printer donation uses are as follows:

1. Goodwill refurbishes, then sells the printers at a retail location. Proceeds are used to provide job readiness training to individuals in the community.

2. Several units may be used for internal printing at Goodwill industries, if need be.

3. A number of units are sent to Dell^® through a partnership program with Goodwill. Dell uses these units for a variety of charitable causes. Dell also ensures the units are refurbished or responsibly recycled. Find out more about Dell’s program here: http://content.dell.com/us/en/corp/dell-environment-recycling.aspx

“This generous donation from Sharp Business Systems will go a long way toward helping Goodwill provide career training and job search assistance for people who are searching for employment. Additionally, our Reconnect program, a partnership with Dell, enables us to responsibly recycle and reuse these items so that they are not disposed of in landfills. This is a huge benefit for our environment, and the job training and placement services that are supported by donations like this one make a tremendous impact on our community by helping people find employment,” said Crystal Hardesty, Director of Marketing for Goodwill Industries.

Tommy Pickens, Sharp Business Systems of South Carolina President, said “We are thrilled to be involved with such a worthy cause. We have been a Goodwill Industries supporter for a long time. I believe in their cause, and we’re happy to help Goodwill as they help the community and contribute to our green initiatives at the same time.”

To learn more about Sharp’s environmental practices visit: http://www.sharpusa.com/AboutSharp/SharpAndTheEnvironment.aspx

About Sharp Business Systems
Sharp Business Systems (SBS), a direct regional sales operation of Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), is one of the Nation’s leading office document and imaging providers with a direct branch organization throughout the United States. Founded on the concept that local businesses prefer to work with local companies, Sharp Business Systems combines the value of local representation with the resources of a multi-billion dollar corporation, Sharp. Sharp products, software and specialized services promote office productivity and document security, while helping to reduce operating costs.

Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America, a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, markets the advanced, color MX Series multifunction printers (MFP) systems that help companies manage workflow efficiently and increase productivity. Sharp^® MFPs feature the Sharp OSA^®development platform, which seamlessly integrates network applications to create a personalized MFP that can meet virtually any business need, and Scan2 technology, which scans two-sided documents in a single pass to enhance scanning reliability and preserve document integrity. To keep documents safe from unauthorized users, Sharp is a leader in the MFP industry in security by offering the most secure suite of MFP applications

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SHARP PV MODULES POWER 58 MW (DC) CALIFORNIA SOLAR PROJECT RANKING AMONGST THE LARGEST GLOBALLY

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 14:50:00 +0100

HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif., August 11, 2011 -- Sharp Electronics Corporation, a subsidiary of Japan’s Sharp Corporation, a world leader in solar electricity, powered one of the largest solar projects in the world to-date as current began to flow from the Avenal Solar Generating Facility in California’s Central Valley. The Avenal facility will provide 58 megawatts (MW dc) of solar PV generating capacity from Kings County, California utilizing Sharp photovoltaic (PV) modules.

The Avenal Solar Generating Facility was developed by Eurus Energy, a global renewable energy development company, and is jointly owned by Eurus and NRG Solar, a wholly owned subsidiary of NRG Energy (NYSE: NRG). Avenal consists of three adjacent projects, all located on agricultural land near the city of Avenal in Kings County, California. All three projects utilize thin film solar modules from Sharp.

“The scale of this project serves as a model for future installations utilizing cutting-edge thin film solar technology to maximize natural resources like our land and the sun to generate clean energy on a large scale,” said Eric Hafter, senior vice president for the Sharp Solar Energy Solutions Group. “Working with partners like Eurus Energy America and NRG Solar, Sharp is proud to power one of the largest solar installations in the world.”

“We are very excited to have completed our first utility scale solar project in the U.S. with Sharp thin film technology. Based on Sharp’s long history in the business and exemplary reputation for quality, we have high expectations for the long term performance of these thin film modules,” said Mark E. Anderson, president and CEO of Eurus Energy America.

The energy produced by Avenal, enough to power approximately 36,000 homes when operating at peak capacity, will be purchased by PG&E under 20-year power purchase agreements. The entire project is designed to displace over 225,000 pounds of nitrogen oxides (NO₂), 630,000 pounds of sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and 70,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO₂) per year, the equivalent of removing nearly 20,000 cars from the road.

The Sharp thin film solar panels utilized for the project feature Sharp’s tandem-junction design that captures a wider part of the solar spectrum. The panels were manufactured in the Sharp plant in Sakai City, Osaka Prefecture, Japan. This plant is designed to be one of the greenest manufacturing sites in the entire world.

For more information visit Sharp Electronics Corporation at www.sharpusa.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and watch us on YouTube.

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SHARP EXTENDS ITS LEADERSHIP IN MFP INDUSTRY INNOVATION WITH LAUNCH OF MID-VOLUME WORKGROUP COLOR SERIES DOCUMENT SYSTEMS THAT LEVERAGE ITS UNPARALLED USER INTERFACE

Wed, 10 Aug 2011 11:33:00 +0100

MAHWAH, NJ, August 10, 2011 -- Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, today extended its MFP industry innovation leadership with the introduction of four mid-volume workgroup products. The Sharp MX-4110N, MX-4111N, MX-5110N and MX-5111N workgroup color document systems increase the company's portfolio of MFPs that leverages its groundbreaking smart-screen user interface. The new Sharp document systems combine the simplicity of touch-screen menu navigation with robust multi-tasking workflow features – with print speeds up to 41 PPM and 51 PPM.

"We are pleased with the incredibly popular reception our document systems' user interface has generated with dealers and customers," said George Grafanakis, senior product marketing manager, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. "Our MFPs build on our strong legacy of industry innovations that include advanced security, dual-head scanning, and Sharp OSA Technology, among many others. We will continue to innovate and deliver the features and capabilities that help our dealers make our end-user customers more productive."

First introduced earlier this year, Sharp's new MFP user interface delivers unprecedented interactivity, simplicity and customization to the document management experience. The user interface, similar to that of today's advanced smartphones, provides easy access to all MFP features, each of which are viewed as familiar icons. Users can perform all tasks in real-time using "flick", "tap", and "slide" and "drag" gestures on a large 10.1-inch color Sharp LCD touchscreen.

Additionally, icons perform the real-time tasks users intuitively expect them to, and the system smartly guides the user based on the previous command to help them quickly execute the desired function. The Sharp MX-4110N, MX-4111N, MX-5110N and MX-5111N are all highly customizable and offer users the ability to personalize the home screen by adding custom backgrounds, icons or language in just minutes. A full-size, retractable keyboard enables easy data entry.

The new Sharp MX-4110N, MX-4111N, MX-5110N and MX-5111N Color Series has been built on the latest Sharp OSA Development Platform, making integration with hundreds of network applications and cloud services easier than ever. In addition, these newest MFPs feature Sharp's latest addition to its industry leading security platform, an "End of Lease" security feature. At the push of a button, this feature erases all personal and confidential information stored by the machine, essentially restoring to virtually the same condition as when it first left the factory floor. This provides businesses of any size, with the peace of mind that comes from knowing that its confidential and/or protected information is secure – even at trade in. Also available as a standard feature, is a new "persistent security" mode, which leverages both 256 bit encryption as well as overwrite protection to ensure that the customer's data is protected continuously, and not just at trade in.

Advantages for Dealers

The Sharp MX-4110N, MX-4111N, MX-5110N and MX-5111N deliver new levels of customization that enable dealers to develop tailored solutions for their customers – driving new opportunities, revenues and profits. The new interface enables dealers to help both advanced and novice MFP users. For example, dealers can create tailored screens that feature their customer's logo on the MFP. Different buttons can be easily created to handle simple and complex functions that enable users to easily execute jobs without the need to remember complex steps. Additionally, Sharp's new UI gives dealers the ability to create customized screens.

Energy Efficiency

The new series feature an energy-efficient belt-fusing system that offers low power consumption, fast warm-up and enhanced print quality. They are also ENERGY STAR® qualified and have an innovative energy-saving mode that can automatically adjust to changing usage patterns. The Sharp MX-4110N, MX-4111N, MX-5110N and MX-5111N also help reduce waste with a virtual proofing feature. Users can see and proof the entire document on the MFP's 10.1" high-resolution color touch-screen before printing. Output settings that include page layout and staple or hole-punch locations are also demonstrated onscreen to minimize mistakes when printing.

Quality

Sharp's enhanced second-generation micro-fine toner technology enables these MFP models to offer high-quality images page after page. The 1200 x 1200 dpi printing capability provides clear, crisp images even on jobs with fine detail. The Sharp MX-4110N, MX-4111N, MX-5110N and MX-5111N also feature support for paper up to 110 lb. index stock and "heavy media" (up to 140 lb. index stock).

Sharp's industry-leading ImageSEND® technology enables printing of up to 50 images per minute both in black and white and color. Easy search and identification of documents stored on these models is made possible by a robust 86 GB document filing system with thumbnail view and image preview. In addition, the models are available with a super G3 fax option that has intelligent inbound routing to email. The new MFPs also feature a network-ready PCL6 and PS3 printing system with direct print function and an XPS option.

Availability and Pricing

The new Sharp MX-4110N, MX-4111N, MX-5110N and MX-5111N are available through authorized Sharp dealers and direct sales. For more information about the complete line of Sharp document solution products, contact Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America, Sharp Plaza, Mahwah, N.J.07495-1163. For online product information, visit Sharp's Web site at sharpusa.com or sharpusa.com/documents.

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SHARP SOLAR POWERS DUKE ENERGY CONVENTION CENTER WITH 101kW ARRAY, REDUCING ENERGY COSTS AND GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 09:09:00 +0100

HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif., August 8, 2011-- Sharp Electronics Corporation’s Solar Energy Solutions Group, and its customer, Third Sun Solar, completed the largest downtown Cincinnati solar project to date – a 101kW installation powering the Duke Energy Convention Center (DECC). The project is part of an aggressive conservation strategy by both the City of Cincinnati and the venue designed to make the 750,000 square-foot convention center a more attractive destination for environmentally conscious. The project was completed in time to power, August 7-10 at the DECC.

The DECC, managed by Global Spectrum, was chosen by the City for its spacious rooftop to collect ample sunlight. A total of 324 220-watt Sharp ND-224UC1 and 105 235-watt Sharp NU-U240fl modules were combined with 42kW Sunny Tower inverters in a 429-panel array. The Sharp modules are popular for commercial applications such as the DECC because of their balance of size and weight to power and performance, as well as their 25-year warranty.

“The City of Cincinnati and Duke Energy Convention Center should be commended for their aggressive pursuit of clean energy with a clear understanding of the long-term economic and environmental benefits,” said Eric Hafter, senior vice president, Sharp Solar Energy Solutions Group. “With nearly 50 years of experience in solar, we offer clients like Third Sun and the DECC peace of mind. Sharp stands behind our product and ensures our clients maximize their return on investment.”

The installation is ideally positioned to receive 1,000 hours of sunlight annually, will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 57.9 metric tons and save about $10,000 in annual utility costs. The installation is scalable and will enable.

As with all municipal energy projects, local and federal support were critical, including funding through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). To receive ARRA funding, the solar modules had to be domestically manufactured – a requirement satisfied by Sharp’s Memphis, Tenn. production facility, which has been in operation since 2003 and has been expanded several times since opening. The energy services company Ameresco oversaw the project and worked collaboratively with all parties to bring the project to fruition.

“We look at a number of factors when we select solar modules for a project, including technical specifications, where modules are produced and the brand that stands behind them,” said Gerald Kelley, communications director, Third Sun Solar. “Since Sharp’s manufacturing facilities are right here in the United States, our clients were able to take advantage of federal funding, and we were able to work with a ‘bankable’ company that stands behind its product.”

Third Sun Solar completed the installation of Sharp solar panels in an array area of 11,500 sq. ft. and a solar panel surface area of 7,500 sq. ft. despite unique challenges of this space. The DECC is booked. At three stories tall, roof access is limited to a freight elevator and crane. The installation was further complicated by the start of the baseball season (the Cincinnati Reds play at the nearby Great American Ballpark). Third Sun Solar worked collaboratively with the facility management and City of Cincinnati to overcome these challenges and the process took just three weeks to completely power up.

“The Duke Energy Convention Center solar project is just the tip of the iceberg for our center’s efforts with green initiatives,” said DECC General Manager Ric Booth. “Our hope is to use this project to enhance our facility to national planners and to help ‘grow’ the solar panel site to double or triple the amount of panels in place on the roof of the center.”

Deck Monitoring has provided a tracker that allows viewers to see the progress of the solar panel array in real time. To learn more about the energy that the Sharp solar modules are generating visit http://deckmonitoring.com/duke_energy_convention_center.

For more information visit Sharp Electronics Corporation at www.sharpusa.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and watch us on YouTube.

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SHARP INTRODUCES ELITE LED LCD TVs

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 10:27:00 +0100

NEW YORK, NY, August 4, 2011 -- Sharp is bringing back an iconic name in television by introducing Elite LED LCD TVs. Providing the highest caliber picture quality and technology available, Elite TVs are designed for discerning consumers who want the best home entertainment experience.

"Over the past 25 years the Elite brand has developed a loyal and avid fan base of audiophiles and videophiles," said Tom Evans, Sharp's associate vice president and general manager of Product & Marketing for Elite televisions. "We are confident that our new line of Elite LCD TVs will appeal to the Elite purists who expect the highest picture quality and experience as well as today's luxury technology enthusiasts looking for the most innovative products to outfit their digitally connected homes."

Elite LED LCD TVs will be available in 60" class (60 1/32" diagonal), and 70" class (69 1/2" diagonal) screen sizes in late August. Elite LED LCD TVs feature the most innovative video technologies available on the market.

UNIQUE COMBINATION OF FEATURES

Elite LED LCD TVs are designed to provide a superior picture quality to other LCD TVs currently on the market. A unique combination of features and technology developed specifically for Elite televisions deliver deep black levels, depth of color, high brightness and smooth images to achieve an astonishing picture.

Elite LCD televisions incorporate proprietary RGB+Y technology, which adds a yellow sub-pixel to the standard red/green/blue color palette. The addition of the yellow sub-pixel enables the reproduction of a much broader range of colors. RGB+Y create higher brightness using less power and more accurately depicts vivid yellows and vibrant golds. RGB+Y technology makes possible Precision Color Plus, four sub-pixels composed of smaller dots, creating more than 8 million dots per screen for a much smoother, more appealing detailed image.

Elite Televisions feature:

FluidMotion, which combines an advanced frame creation system with Elite's unique scanning backlight technology creating a greater than 240 Hz effect, improves picture clarity and smoothness;
Full Array LED, which includes a full array of Light Emitting Diodes, evenly dispersed behind a diffuser resulting in more uniform and brighter lighting versus traditional edge-lit LEDs;
Local Dimming allows specific groups of LEDs to be dimmed for greater control of brightness and darkness in different areas of the screen for outstanding black levels.

INTELLIGENT VARIABLE CONTRAST

But what makes Elite televisions Elite is Intelligent Variable Contrast. Developed specifically for Elite televisions, Intelligent Variable Contrast technology works with all of the other Elite technologies to automatically control brightness and backlight to create depth of color, brilliance, detail and dark areas. The result is a television beyond compare that sets new standards in picture quality.

Additional features complete the state-of-the art engineering and design:

Elegant form factor, with fine, brushed aluminum finish, precision cut mitered bezel and slim cabinet depth round out the television's premium design
Connectivity to Netflix^®, VUDU™, CinemaNow™, YouTube^®, and others;
3-D Functionality including two sets of active shutter 3-D glasses;
Elite Advantage Live^SM, which offers an unprecedented level of support via Internet connectivity where a personal advisor can remotely connect to the TV and provide a variety of services such as setup, picture adjustment, or basic calibration.
THX^® Certified display – reserved for TVs with best in class picture quality, THX Certified displays deliver movie experiences with the same stunning color and detail found in the filmmaker's studio.
ISF^® (Imaging Science Foundation) certification
Variety of AV modes including Elite Pure Mode, a mode that replicates the settings of previous Elite TVs
Skype™ ready (Skype camera kit sold separately)

Elite LCD HDTVs will only be available at select high-end retailers and via custom installation companies that have the knowledge and experience to represent the finest TVs on the market. The Elite LED LCD TV 60" class (60 1/32" diagonal) carries an MSRP of $5,999.99, and the Elite LED LCD TV 70" class (69 1/2" diagonal) carries an MSRP of $8,499.99.

Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC) and Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc., two of the leading U.S. audio/video product companies, joined together in a unique marketing collaboration to launch the first Elite LED LCD TVs. For 25 years the Elite brand has provided audiophiles and videophiles with an amazing entertainment experience and a number of high-end audio/video receivers, Blu-ray Disc™ players and speakers made by Pioneer. Sharp has licensed the Elite brand and Elite LCD LED TVs will be sold through the Pioneer authorized Elite dealer network.

About Elite

Sharp's Elite LED LCD TVs are designed to be the best LCD televisions ever created. The result of a unique and exciting marketing collaboration between Sharp and Pioneer, two of the world's leading audio/video product manufacturers, Elite LED LCD TVs feature some of the most innovative video and audio technologies available on the market to provide discerning audiophiles, videophiles and luxury consumers an unparalleled home theater experience. Pioneer's Elite audio/video receivers, Blu-ray Disc™ players and speakers enjoy an extremely passionate base of enthusiasts throughout North America. Elite LED LCD TVs are not only worthy of the Elite brand name, but are ushering in a new era of high-end, high-quality, luxury LCD televisions.

For more information, please visit elitelcdtv.com.

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CONSORTIUM FOR SOLAR LIGHTING RELEASES PRELIMINARY RECOMMENDED PRACTICES PAPER FOR SOLAR POWERED LIGHTING INDUSTRY

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 10:16:00 +0100

MAHWAH, NJ, July 28, 2011 -- The Consortium for Solar Lighting (CSL) announces the release of Solar Lighting Recommended Practices: Introduction, a preliminary guide to the effective sizing of solar lighting systems. Representing the first technical paper by the newly formed Consortium, to which Sharp Electronics Corporation is a founding member, the introductory document defines the process of selecting and configuring a solar lighting system to ensure that the system will operate reliably 365 days a year.

According to CSL founding members, a gap in lighting industry standards exists surrounding the effective sizing of a solar lighting system, which can adversely affect the rate of solar adoption in the lighting industry. The CSL was formed in early 2011 with other founding members Carmanah Technologies, Inovus Solar, Inc., and SolarOne Solutions, Inc. to accelerate the adoption of solar lighting technology through the development of specifications intended to support customers’ fair and comprehensive evaluation of commercial-scale lighting systems. The CSL believes that recommendations such as this introductory guide will help foster awareness of solar powered lighting and the applications where it is a viable alternative to conventional grid-connected lighting technology.

This “Introduction” document represents the first installment of the CSL Recommended Practices reports, which presents an overview of the Consortium’s mission and discusses the emergence of solar lighting as a new category of outdoor lighting. The paper then investigates current industry standards as they relate to solar technology and where the notable system sizing gap exists. Standards such as NEC, UL, CE and IES (among others) touch on a few aspects of solar lighting, but the CSL contends that no standard addresses solar lighting directly.

The purpose of the recommended practices document is to sift through and pull together information on best practices from the array of existing standards. Where existing standards are silent on important topics, the CSL will continue to add new information and recommendations. The preliminary document presents solar lighting terminology and diagrams in a user-friendly form with the expectation that the practices can be readily adopted by municipal, government and commercial customers and specifiers. The paper is now available to the public at no cost.

In addition to accelerating solar lighting adoption, the CSL is driven to communicate the importance of energy balance of a solar lighting system to ensure that operation is aligned with customer’s expectations. Other aspects of the system design, including standards that apply to individual components of the system, lighting characteristics or aspects that relate to safety are already being addressed through national and international bodies such as Commission International D’eclairage (CIE), Illuminating Engineering Society of North America (IESNA), International Electrotechniques Commission (IEC) and Underwriters Laboratories (UL).

To view Solar Lighting Recommended Practices: Introduction and to learn more about the CSL, please visit www.consortiumforsolarlighting.com. According the CSL, the full 1st edition of Solar Lighting Recommended Practices: System Sizing will be released in the Fall of 2011.

For more information visit Sharp Electronics Corporation at www.sharpusa.com. Find us on Facebook, Follow us on Twitter and watch us on YouTube.

SHARP WINS MULTIPLE INFOCOMM AWARDS FOR SHARP PN-V601 VIDEO WALL DISPLAY SOLUTION

Wed, 29 Jun 2011 13:14:00 +0100

MAHWAH, NJ, June 29, 2011 -- Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC) today announced that its Sharp PN-V601, the new standard for multi-screen video wall displays, took top honors for two separate awards at InfoComm 2011.

The Sharp PN-V601 Professional LCD Video Wall Monitor was recognized as Best Digital Signage Product — Displays by InfoComm/Rental & Staging Systems New Product Awards, and the Sharp PN-V601 LCD Video Wall Monitor won the Most Innovative Video Display Product at the InfoComm/Systems Contractor News Installation Product Awards. Both awards were presented at InfoComm, June 14, 2011 in Orlando, FL.

“For our product to earn multiple awards at an event as competitive as InfoComm shows that Sharp is at the forefront of innovation,” said Gary Bailer, director product management, IS products. “The PN-V601 truly showcases our commitment to developing cutting-edge technologies, but also meeting our customers’ needs. The PN-V601 clearly enables almost limitless digital signage and display possibilities, which is what our customers are looking for.”

With the slimmest bezel in the 60” diagonal class*, the Sharp PN-V601 is the new standard for multi-screen video wall displays. Portrait and landscape compatibility, full array LED backlighting, and virtually seamless borders help you create high impact video walls in almost any size and format. 24/7 certified reliability plus a 3-year limited warranty make the ENERGY STAR® qualified PN-V601 one of the most dependable and energy efficient professional LCD monitors available.

Best Digital Signage Product — Displays by InfoComm/Rental & Staging Systems New Product Awards
The 2011 RSS/InfoComm Installation Product Awards showcase the most innovative commercial AV products of 2010. According to Rental & Staging magazine, a record number of entries were received for this award.

"For the AV Rental & Staging Market, the new Sharp PN-V601 Video Wall Monitor offers some compelling features. The big video wall is back– but this time products like the Sharp PN-V601 with its almost seamless borders and full-array LED-backlighting gives immediate impact to trade show booths, stages, or any live event, said David Keene, executive editor of NewBay Media's Rental & Staging magazine, and the director of the InfoComm/Rental & Staging Systems New Product Awards.

Most Innovative Video Display Product at the InfoComm/Systems Contractor News Installation Product Awards
The Systems Contractor News Installation Product Awards recognize excellence in the integration of audio, video, control, and networking products in the commercial AV installation market.

“Brighter and with more contrast than CCFL LCD panels, the Sharp PN-V601 Video Wall Monitor has full-array LED-backlighting and ultra-slim bezels, for an impressive footprint and performance for digital signage and installed AV,” said David Keene, executive editor, Systems Group, NewBay Media.

The Sharp PN-V601 is available through leading Pro AV dealers, systems integrators and VARs.

* Based on published information as of 6/8/10 for LCD panels of 46” or larger in size.

For more information visit Sharp Electronics Corporation at www.sharpusa.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and watch us on YouTube.

JUNE 28 MARKS THE GRAND OPENING OF SHARP BUSINESS SYSTEMS SACRAMENTO

Fri, 24 Jun 2011 13:56:00 +0100

MAHWAH, NJ, June 24, 2011 -- Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA) continues to expand its direct regional sales operation with the opening of a new Sharp Business Systems of Sacramento facility based in Roseville, California.

“We look forward to generating new jobs and opportunities within the Sacramento community. One of our main objectives is to raise the standard for office equipment and services. We invite you and your staff to join us at our Grand Opening where you will meet our staff and management, enjoy lunch and get acquainted with what our company can do for you,” said Pravin Chand, branch president.

The Grand Opening celebration will take place on June 28th beginning at 9:30 AM at the new Sharp Business Systems facility, 5 Sierra Gate Plaza, Roseville, California. The Roseville Chamber of Commerce will be the honorary guest performing the ribbon cutting ceremony. For more details or to register for this event, visit www.sbs-communication.com/sacramento.html

About Sharp Business Systems

Sharp Business Systems (SBS), a direct regional sales operation of Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), is one of the Nation’s leading office document and imaging providers with a direct branch organization throughout the United States. Founded on the concept that local businesses prefer to work with local companies, Sharp Business Systems combines the value of local representation with the resources of a multi-billion dollar corporation, Sharp. Sharp products, software and specialized services promote office productivity and document security, while helping to reduce operating costs.

Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America, a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, markets the advanced, color MX Series multifunction printers (MFP) systems that help companies manage workflow efficiently and increase productivity. Sharp® MFPs feature the Sharp OSA® development platform, which seamlessly integrates network applications to create a personalized MFP that can meet virtually any business need, and Scan² technology, which scans two-sided documents in a single pass to enhance scanning reliability and preserve document integrity. To keep documents safe from unauthorized users, Sharp is a leader in the MFP industry in security by offering the most secure suite of MFP applications

For more information about the complete line of Sharp document solution products, contact Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America, Sharp Plaza, Mahwah, N.J. 07495-1163, or call 800-BE-SHARP or visit sharpusa.com or sharp-pc.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and watch us on YouTube.

SHARP ANNOUNCES THAT ITS WORKGROUP LINE OF MFPs ARE NOW CERNER CERTIFIED

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 09:36:00 +0100

MAHWAH, NJ, June 21, 2011 -- Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, has announced that its workgroup line of MFPs are now Cerner® Certified for use in Cerner’s Millennium® environment which will offer customers in the medical and healthcare markets that already deploy Cerner applications continued access to the best technology and support available.

Cerner is a worldwide leading supplier of healthcare information technology solutions that optimize clinical and financial outcomes. The Cerner Certification process is an evaluation of a technology designed to minimize downtime and risks, and to ensure compatibility with the Cerner application environment. The process includes development of necessary operating systems scripts, installation and support documentation, and training of Cerner support associates.

“Sharp’s latest MFPs utilize a customizable high-resolution touch-screen display that simplifies common tasks performed on the machine,” says Vince Jannelli, director, product management applications, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. “We are very pleased to have our line of A3 and A4 products Cerner Certified because whether from a small nurse’s station or from an administrative office, everyone can be assured that Sharp MFPs and printers will work reliably in their Cerner Millennium® environment.”

The newly certified Sharp products include several A4 monochrome models (MX-B402/B402SC, MX-B400P), A4 color models (MX-C402SC, MX-C400P), and A3 color models (MX-2310U, MX-2610N/3110N/3610N). The complete list of Cerner certified Sharp MFPs and printers are available at www.sharp-pc.com. The certification covers the following Cerner products and environments:

Cerner Millennium / AIX Environment
• IBM AIX® version 5.3 – ML 3 or greater
• Cerner Millennium 2005.02.06 or greater

Cerner Millennium / HP-UX Environment
• HP HP-UX® version 11.23 or greater
• Cerner Millennium 2005.02.06 or greater

Cerner Millennium / OpenVMS Environment
• OpenVMS® version 7.3-2 or greater
• Cerner Millennium 2005.02.06 or greater
• Spooler version 2.00.R1

Windows Environment
• Windows XP®, SP2 and higher
• Windows Server® 2003

For more information about the complete line of Sharp document solution products, contact Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America, Sharp Plaza, Mahwah, N.J. 07495-1163, or call 800-BE-SHARP. For online product information, visit Sharp’s Web site at sharpusa.com or sharp-pc.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and watch us on YouTube.

JOE PASETTI JOINS SHARP SOLAR ENERGY SOLUTIONS GROUP AS DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT RELATIONS

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 11:49:00 +0100

MAHWAH, NJ, June 16, 2011-- Sharp Electronics Corporation (SEC) today announced that Joe Pasetti has joined the company’s Solar Energy Solutions Group (SESG) as Director of Government Relations. In his position, Mr. Pasetti will engage with legislators and regulators on state and federal level in order to advance the business goals of SESG and the solar industry in the U.S. He will also oversee the growing government relations department and will be responsible for ensuring that the department is contributing to SESG's overall strategic plan.

"Sharp is expanding its leadership role in communicating and driving a sustainable energy policy at the federal and state levels. Joe Pasetti is an industry veteran who brings deep experience and skills to Sharp Corporation. Joe will work closely with key lawmakers, associations and regulators to mitigate threats and advance the interests of the solar industry in order to promote energy independence. We’re thrilled to have him on board,” said Eric Hafter, senior vice president of Sharp Solar Energy Solutions Group.

Joe Pasetti brings over a decade of experience in government relations and a successful track record of developing and executing corporate legislative and regulatory agenda focused on energy, tax and environmental policy. Most recently he was the managing director for Solyndra Inc., where he represented the company within all industry associations and was reelected by Solar Energy Industries Association members to serve a second term as chair of the association’s Government Affairs and Political Action Committees.

For more information visit Sharp Electronics Corporation at www.sharpusa.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and watch us on YouTube.

SHARP MANUFACTURING COMPANY OF AMERICA WELCOMES TENNESSEE OFFICIALS TO COMMEMORATE SIGNIFICANT ADDITION TO FACILITY’S SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 11:44:00 +0100

MEMPHIS, TN, June 21, 2011-- Today Sharp Manufacturing Company of America (SMCA), Sharp’s U.S. solar panel manufacturing plant, welcomed local officials to commemorate a significant addition to the company’s own solar electric system. The new system is comprised of 910 (200kW) roof mounted and 264 (59kW) ground mounted Sharp solar modules for a total of 259kW, more than doubling the facility’s current solar electricity generation capacity. The system was designed and installed by S & T Control Wiring, Inc. of Moscow, TN.

SMCA has used solar energy for 5 years, installing its first solar system, a 50kW ground mounted array, in 2006. It added a 150kW rooftop array in 2010. The two new systems commissioned today bring SMCA’s total solar power generation capacity to 460kW, the most in Memphis. The solar electricity generated at Sharp’s Memphis factory is equivalent to the power required to supply 53 homes or the carbon equivalent to taking 80 cars off the road.

“As a company that has been in the solar industry for nearly 50 years, there can be no doubt that Sharp truly believes in solar,” said Kozo Takahashi, CEO and Chairman, Sharp Electronics Corporation. “SMCA is one of several Sharp facilities around the world that generates a portion of its power through solar electricity, saving the company money and reducing our carbon footprint.”

Sharp Manufacturing Company of America was established in 1978 for the production of color TVs, and began producing solar panels in 2003. Current production capacity has increased tenfold since, and is now 200MW.

The two millionth solar module rolled off the Memphis production line in 2010. That’s enough solar modules to fully power more than 65,000 total average-sized American homes. Sharp employs approximately 450 to 500 union members (dependent upon production requirements) in the production of solar modules, up from 230 at the end of 2007.

For more information visit Sharp Electronics Corporation at www.sharpusa.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and watch us on YouTube.

INNOVATIVE NEW PRESENTATION, DIGITAL SIGNAGE AND DISPLAY SOLUTIONS STAR AT SHARP INFOCOMM 2011 BOOTH

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 13:37:00 +0100

ORLANDO, FL, June 15, 2011 -- Sharp comes to InfoComm 2011 with several innovative new presentation, digital signage and display solutions for diverse professional and commercial environments, including restaurants, hotels, corporate and educational facilities and trade shows. Demonstrating its broadest line of display products to date, Sharp will showcase high brightness monitors, video walls, touch screen displays and 3D ready projectors. The company invites the press to their InfoComm booth (#3330) to see product demonstrations and recieve more information on the initiative to recruit new dealers.

Sharp will promote its new ProAV Certified Reseller Program that offers dealers, VARs and integrators extensive business-building incentives. Sharp’s ProAV Certified Reseller Program gives dealers and VARs the ability to purchase Sharp products from any authorized Sharp Pro AV distributor and participate in a robust qualified lead generation system. In addition, they will be eligible to receive the benefits of other Sharp Pro AV dealer programs, including volume incentive rebates, project registration, government and education discounts, Sharp Ultimate Rewards spiff incentives and many other perks. Pro AV dealers/resellers, integrators and consultants visiting Sharp’s booth can also register to win an iPad® 2.

New Sharp professional LCD displays include the PN-V602 60-inch class (60” diagonal) high brightness video wall monitor and PN-T322B 32-inch class (31-1/2” diagonal) ultra-slim interactive touch screen monitor. New projectors being debuted include Sharp’s full feature 3D ready BrilliantColor™ DLP® “SV” conference series with optional motorized swivel mount unit, and XG-PH80 series 3D ready systems integration / large-venue models.

“Our comprehensive offering of presentation, digital signage and display solutions for diverse markets and new ProAV Certified Reseller Program makes our booth a mandatory stop for any attendee working in the Pro AV sales space,” said Mike Marusic, senior vice president, Sharp Business Solutions Group. “This has been a big year for Sharp and we’re turning up the heat with the best products and programs in the industry.”

The following key products will be showcased at InfoComm 2011.

Sharp PN-V602 Professional LCD Monitor with High Brightness and Ultra-Thin Bezel
Sharp’s PN-V602 60-inch class (60” diagonal) professional LCD monitor with exceptionally high brightness and ultra-thin bezel is ideal for seamless video wall applications, even in high ambient light environments including sports and entertainment facilities, transportation hubs, shopping malls and control centers. Boasting one of the thinnest bezels in the industry, this model facilitates high impact displays of almost unlimited size and configuration. Optional mirror frames further minimize lines between monitors for an even smoother big picture effect. Sharp’s proprietary UV2A technology provides highly efficient use of light from the full-array LED backlight while simultaneously preventing light leakage. Outstanding black levels are delivered via local dimming that allows specific groups of LEDs to be dimmed for greater control of brightness and darkness in different areas of the screen. Local dimming also helps this model deliver significantly better contrast (up to 1,000,000:1 contrast ration with local dimming set to HIGH) and brightness (up to 1,500 cd/m2) compared to conventional LCD monitors, while utilizing as much as 37% less power than alternative technologies.

Sharp PN-T322B Interactive LCD Touch Screen
Sharp’s new PN-T322B professional 32-inch class (31-1/2” diagonal) screen size LCD monitor offers exceptional performance in a compact package. This ultra-thin model has a depth of less than 2 ½-inches and weighs just 24.3 pounds, making it easy to place in diverse locations including corporate lobbies, hotel and conference facilities, waiting rooms, retail stores and museums. Its lightweight and flexible design can be wall-mounted and operated in either portrait or landscape orientation.
The highly sensitive touch screen uses Sharp’s proprietary infrared detection system to heighten responsiveness via multiple infrared sensors that locate the position of a user’s finger with impressive speed and accuracy. The PN-T322B supports dual touch screen applications when used with the Windows® 7 OS. The built-in slide show function, for non-touch screen applications, allows still images and audio stored on flash drives to be played back directly through the monitor, making it ideal for stand-alone digital signage applications.

Sharp SV Series High Performance 3D Ready Projectors with Unique Swivel Mount Option
Sharp introduces its XG-SV200X and XG-SV100W “SV” Series 3D ready BrilliantColor™ DLP® projectors that offer great flexibility for professional presentations. Both models deliver high quality 3D presentations when used with compatible 3D field sequential content, PCs and active shutter glasses. The XG-SV100W offers 4500 lumens brightness, HD compatible WXGA (1280 x 800) native resolution and a 2000:1 contrast ratio, while the XG-SV200X offers 5000 lumens brightness, XGA (1024 x 768) native resolution and a 2000:1 contrast ratio. A powerful 2.0 optical power zoom/focus lens with motorized horizontal and vertical lens shift provides superior picture with great placement flexibility. High output 10-watt audio systems deliver ample sound for presentations. Both models are compatible with Sharp’s optional motorized ceiling swivel mount (AN-SV100T) that enable them to be horizontally rotated up to 360o (180o in each direction) by remote control. In addition, eight memory presets allow them to automatically swivel and project on multiple screens. The optional motorized swivel mount unit (AN-SV100T) docks to the projectors and attaches them to standard compatible ceiling mounting brackets. The projectors and ceiling swivel mounts incorporate mating multi pin board-to-board docking inputs so that all connections can be made through the input/output panel on the swivel mount unit, making installation quick and easy. Presentation assist functions, including page up/down, GUI (graphic user interface) pointer, spotlight and mouse control, are accessible by remote control. The XG-SV200 and XG-SV100 feature comprehensive connectivity options.

Sharp XG-PH80 Series 3D Ready Systems Integration Projectors
Sharp’s new XG-PH80 Series systems integration projectors offer high brightness and image quality in addition to DLP® Link™ 3D-compatibility. This provides superior performance for large venue applications in corporate, university, government, house of worship and rental/staging settings. The XG-PH80 Series includes the XG-PH80W-N (5600 lumens, HD compatible WXGA native resolution) and XG-PH80X-N (6300 lumens, XGA native resolution) models which are among the first in this systems integration / large venue class to incorporate DLP Link technology for high quality 3D output from a single projector. When used with compatible 3D field sequential content, PC, and optional 3D active shutter glasses that support DLP Link, the projectors captivate audiences with magnificent 3D imagery. Both models offer 3D support for 60Hz and 120Hz XGA (1024 x 768) and SVGA (800 x 600) sources. The XG-PH80W-N also offers support for 60Hz and 120Hz WXGA (1280 x 720) sources. When not being used for 3D projection, both models offer full compatibility with traditional “2D” sources. The new models feature an intelligent dual-lamp design which gives users the flexibility to choose single or dual-lamp projection, as well as standard brightness or “Eco+Quiet” mode projection. Additionally, the dual-lamp system provides extra reliability, in the event one lamp should fail, the playback performance can be maintained by using the other lamp without interruption. Through a sealed DLP chip with a user-interchangeable color wheel, the user has the option to use either a 4-segment color wheel for the highest brightness or the optional BrilliantColor™ AN-PH80CW color wheel for video applications where color accuracy is paramount.

Sharp PN-L601B-PKG Interactive Whiteboard Solution with Dual Touch Functionality
Sharp’s new PN-L601B-PKG is a complete interactive whiteboard solution for meeting collaboration, video conferencing, interactive digital signage, presentations and higher-education applications. The bundle includes the PN-L601B 60-inch (60-inch diagonal) class full-array LED backlit touch-panel display, the PN-TPC1W compact whiteboard PC and SR-560M rolling cart floor stand. The whiteboard PC connects easily to the back of the display via a provided HDMI cable. The PN-L601B 60-inch class LCD touch-panel offers full HD 1920 x 1080 resolution and is equipped with Sharp’s UV2A photo alignment and Full Array LED backlight technologies to create an evenly-lit bright and energy-efficient screen that is easy to read in most environments, regardless of ambient lighting levels. The PN-L601B’s accurate touch-screen response is made possible by Sharp’s infrared detection system, which uses multiple infrared sensors to pinpoint the location of the user’s onscreen finger or touch pen movements to virtually eliminate the perception of misalignment. Dual touch functionality is also provided when used with Microsoft® Windows® 7 operating systems. Sharp developed intuitive pen software specifically for the PN-L601B with a user-friendly interface that enables the selection of pen colors and eraser functions with a click of the touch pen button. Once images are displayed on the screen, users can draw directly on them with a touch pen or their finger to quickly make notes and reference marks. These images, with notations, can then be saved as a file on a PC or printed via a connected Sharp Multifunction Product (MFP). Connecting the PN-L601B to a Sharp MFP with color scanning function also enables documents and images to be easily scanned and displayed on the PN-L601B via the pen software.

The PN-TPC1W is a compact whiteboard PC that easily attaches to the rear of the PN-L601B display permitting an “all-in-one” electronic whiteboard solution. It utilizes a powerful dual core Intel® Atom™ N330 CPU and comes pre-loaded with Sharp Pen Software™ and touch screen drivers. It is sold with an HDMI® connecting cable for easy system set-up. The SR-560M is a high quality rolling cart floor stand ideally suited for supporting the 60-inch class PN-L601B display. Manufactured by Peerless Industries, it includes a metal shelf, 4” swivel casters, and a specially designed retaining nut for increased safety.

For more information, please write to Sharp Electronics Corporation, Professional Display Division, Sharp Plaza, Mahwah, N.J. 07495-1163, call 866-4-VISUAL (866-484-7825) or e-mail ProLCD@SharpUSA.com. For online product information, visit us online at www.sharpusa.com/projectors.

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SHARP SOLAR ENERGY GROUP TO RELOCATE TO CAMAS, WA

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 09:47:00 +0100

HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA, June 8, 2011 -- Sharp Electronics Corporation, the U.S. subsidiary of Sharp Corporation, announces that on August 1st, it will relocate the Solar Energy Solutions Group (SESG) to the company’s campus in Camas, Washington. SESG will also open an office in San Francisco.

SESG, which markets and sells Sharp’s industry-leading solar panels, will move to a world-class facility that is currently home to Sharp’s US research and development laboratory, Sharp Laboratories of America (SLA) and Sharp’s Microelectronics unit, Sharp Microelectronics of America (SMA), creating a “superhub” for West Coast operations. The relocation holds many benefits for Sharp and its customers, including improved inventory and logistics options, and strengthened IT-based services. It will also help foster greater innovation and help speed time to market of new products through a higher level of synergy between Sharp’s technical groups (SMA, SLA, SESG). Sharp is working to ensure that there are no disruptions in business operations, and that its customers continue to receive a high level of service during the relocation process.

“Solar is a strategic business for Sharp, and relocating to Camas will help ensure we have the infrastructure to support our continued growth,” said Eric Hafter, Senior Vice President, Sharp Solar Energy Solutions Group. “The Portland/Vancouver area is known for its excellent quality of life, and it is fast becoming a hub of the global green economy. We are thrilled to be joining this vibrant community while also maintaining our presence in the critical California market with a new office in San Francisco.”

For more information visit Sharp Electronics Corporation at www.sharpusa.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and watch us on YouTube.