MAHWAH, NJ, April 11, 2008 -- At 2008 Kitchen/Bath Industry Show, Sharp is showcasing its 24- and 30-inch Insight Pro^®Microwave Drawer^® ovens, models KB-6024M and KB-6025M, featuring an enhanced Easy Open mechanism for optimum ease and convenience. Sharp’s patent-pending Microwave Drawer solution is available in several different configurations to maximize design possibilities within a kitchen, including a 30-inch built-in unit combination that features a glass ceramic cooktop (KB-5121K). Insight^® and Insight Pro Ranges feature the Microwave Drawer oven as part of 3-in-1 cooking center that includes a cooktop with a convection or conventional oven.

“The Insight Pro Microwave Drawer oven is not just about sophisticated design, but also about ease and convenience. It’s positioned at a height that is easily accessible for a range of users and dishes can be inspected without removing them from the microwave to minimize spills and the maneuvering of hot plates,” said Christine Lewis, associate vice president of marketing, appliances, Sharp Electronics Marketing Company of America.

With Easy Open Microwave Drawer ovens, the 1.0-cubic-foot-capacity drawer opens and closes automatically with a gentle pull or push of the handle. This hand-assisted mechanism allows for quieter and smoother operation, and makes it even easier and more convenient for consumers to handle dishes in the drawer.

The Microwave Drawer oven offers a unique option for microwave placement and kitchen design, and is ideal for open-plan kitchens, islands and tight spaces. It can be installed directly into the cabinetry, and the 24-inch model accommodates one of the most popular cabinet sizes found in U.S. kitchens for added placement flexibility. It features the neat look of traditional under-the-counter installations with the added ease and accessibility that these designs lack, and it frees space above the range for a powerful and stylish ventilation hood.

The 1000-watt Microwave Drawer oven brings convenience to the cooking process, with 11 Sensor Cook^® settings for superior microwave cooking and reheating results without any guesswork. A “Keep Warm” feature maintains serving temperature for up to 30 minutes, and new shortcut keys for “Soften” and “Melt” assist with frequently-performed cooking tasks.

Easy reach-in access eliminates the need to bend down beneath the counter to remove dishes from the microwave to check or stir foods. The large viewing window and integrated handle lend a state-of-the-art appearance, and the easy-to-use touch controls with LCD display are angled upwards for convenient access.

The KB-6024M and KB-6025M are available in black, white or stainless steel finishes.

Pricing and availability:

• Model KB-6024M is available now for a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $799.99.
• Model KB-6025M is available now for an MSRP of $799.99.