Business Solutions News Edition3

Business Solutions News

Editorial

2006 was a year of successes for Panasonic and we saw a lot of activity across all product segments within Business Systems.

The ruggedised notebook market continued to grow with an increasing number of Australians taking their technology on the road. Coca-Cola Amatil became the first FMCG organisation to deploy Panasonic Toughbooks for their sales force and Energex rolled out Toughbooks to their power technicians as part of a $20 million Field Force Automation (FFA) project.

We have truly entered the digital signage revolution as commercial organisations continue to see the benefits of flat panel displays. Outpost Media has installed Panasonic plasmas in shopping centres across the country – when Business Solutions News went to print this number was approaching 400 Panasonic plasmas in over 30 shopping centres, and growing.

One of the most exciting additions to Panasonic’s growing portfolio of plasmas is the 103-inch panel. The world’s largest flat screen panel is now available in Australia. We have also launched plasma models for the hotel market and expect to work with many more organisations, across a range of industries, this year to provide effective solutions for digital signage.

Looking forward, changes in wireless broadband have meant there will be continued growth in the ruggedised notebook market. The launch of Panasonic’s latest Toughbook models on February 8th was very successful with media and dealers having an opportunity to get hands-on with the new notebooks.

In broadcast, we have developed many new partnerships recently. The most exciting currently is a three-year contract signed with the ABC to use the Panasonic DVC Pro P2 series technology and equipment. As we continue to roll out our cameras and projectors to cinemas and large venues, we look forward to a big year in broadcast.

We have a number of new products coming out this year – the new range of colour copiers, launched in January, were the first cab off the rank. We will

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continue to update you as the year progresses. I hope you enjoy the third issue of Panasonic’s Business Solutions News. Thank you for your ongoing support.

Brendan Trewartha

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News Update

FOX TELEVISION STATIONS ADOPT PANASONIC P2 HD/P2 FOR ALL OWNED-AND-OPERATED STATIONS

SECAUCUS, NJ (January 16, 2007) -- Panasonic Broadcast today announced that it has signed a three-year agreement with the Fox Entertainment Group, Inc. to supply P2 HD and P2 solid-state camcorders and recorders to all Fox owned-and-operated television stations. Fox Television Stations, Inc. part of the Fox Entertainment Group, is one of the nation's largest owned-and-operated broadcast groups, and comprises 35 stations in 26 markets, covering nearly 45% of U.S. television homes. This includes five duopolies in the top 10 markets, New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Dallas and Washington D.C., as well as duopolies in Houston, Minneapolis, Phoenix and Orlando. Under the terms of the three-year agreement, Panasonic will be the exclusive supplier of certain electronic news gathering (ENG) equipment for Fox owned-and-operated television stations. The agreement covers AJ-HPX2000 2/3" P2 HD camcorders, AJ-HPM100 P2 HD mobile recorders, P2 Cards as well as P2 drives and other P2 products. John Baisley, President, Panasonic Broadcast, said, "We are very pleased to be chosen by Fox, one of our original development partners for P2, to supply its television stations with P2 HD and P2 equipment. This substantial commitment reinforces Panasonic leadership in high definition." "P2 is a proven technology with extensive customer experience, and Panasonic is deeply committed to the continued development of innovative yet practical P2 HD solid state solutions that deliver substantial workflow improvements and overall operating efficiencies," added Baisley. Currently, five Fox stations WNYW-TV and WWOR-

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TV, New York City; WTXF-TV, Philadelphia, KRIV-TV, Houston; and KTVI-TV, St. Louis; are using Panasonic P2 standard definition equipment in their news production operations.

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News Update

103-inch plasma arrives at the Footy Show

The Footy Show has installed Panasonic's 103-inch Full High Definition plasma panel as the centerpiece of their new set. The Footy Show, the Logie award winning Channel Nine rugby league talk show hosted by Paul 'Fatty' Vautin, Matthew Johns and Paul 'Chief' Harragon, has undergone a set redesign for 2007, with the Panasonic 103-inch plasma in prime position next to the panel of hosts. Paul 'Fatty' Vautin, host of the Footy Show, said, "2007 is shaping up to become one of the Footy Show's biggest years ever. Our set has been totally updated, and now we have the world's biggest plasma right in the middle of it. It looks amazing!" The Panasonic 103-inch plasma was unveiled last night on the first Footy Show for the 2007 season. The Footy Show airs on Thursday nights at 9.30pm on Channel Nine in New South Wales and Queensland. Virginia Hodgson, Executive Producer of the Footy Show, added, "The Panasonic 103-inch plasma adds massive impact for both the studio audience and viewers at home. Plus, it's full high definition image quality is outstanding." The new set design also showcases four wall-mounted 42-inch high definition Panasonic plasma panels. In addition, a 42-inch Panasonic plasma will be visible in camera shots from above, installed in the floor of the set. "This is the latest technology in terms of staging and broadcasting, we are excited to have the world's biggest plasma on the Footy Show," Ms. Hodgson explained. Brendan Frawley, Group Manager, AV/IT, Panasonic Australia, said: "Panasonic is very excited to see such an innovative use of its 103-inch plasma. The panel is ideal for any location where a super size display is needed to deliver maximum impact.

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"It is perfect for venues such as clubs and pubs, as the ultimate display for watching major sporting events. In addition, we expect takeup by the growing digital signage market, with installations in shopping malls, airports and other high-traffic areas." The crystal-clear display and outstanding detail and colour accuracy also make the panel suitable for control room applications such as TV production.

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Digital Signage Solutions

Plasmas provide high-impact displays in leading shopping centres

At a time when digital media is one of the fastest growing advertising mediums in Australia, Panasonic has teamed up with one of Australia’s largest digital media companies, Outpost Media, to deliver the latest in digital signage solutions – big-screen plasma panels – to shopping malls nationwide.

In 2006, Outpost Media launched its Outpost TV network through 135 plasma display panels across 13 leading shopping centres in Queensland, Victoria and NSW. Since launch, this number has reached nearly 400 Panasonic plasmas in over 35 shopping centres, in just 12 months.

The panels installed include High Definition 50-inch and 65-inch screens. As well as offering the impressive detail and clarity provided by HD, these commercial panels are designed to withstand the heavy usage of the retail environment.

The screens are used for moving digital advertising, as well as communicating news headlines, weather forecasts and coming attractions and, according to Outpost Media CEO, Anthony Deeble, are strategically placed to maximise traffic flow and capture shoppers at the longest dwell times.

“The beauty of digital advertising in locations like shopping malls is that we can target different content for different audiences and, because the advertisements are centrally controlled, we can target the messages depending on the time of day and the location. Additionally, it’s not as disruptive as other forms of advertising because shoppers are generally in high spirits and can look at their own leisure,” he said.

According to Deeble, research has shown that full motion images and well placed screens are much more effective in getting consumers' attention than static images.

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“It’s a multi-million dollar advertising format, undergoing significant growth, and we’ve had great feedback from our partners and advertisers. With Outpost TV, advertisers’ commercials appear 210 times on each screen per day,” he said.

Outpost’s back end infrastructure has been updated to Full High Definition and Deeble says the Panasonic screens are the best fit for the Outpost TV network.

“Research has shown that shoppers are more responsive to bigger, higher quality screens. The Panasonic HD screens, particularly the 65-inch, are without a doubt the best for this kind of medium.

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Sydney City Lexus and Sydney City Toyota enhance buyer experience with Panasonic plasmas

Two of Australia’s leading car dealerships – Sydney City Lexus and Sydney City Toyota – have installed Panasonic’s 50-inch commercial plasma panels to create a ‘lifestyle showroom’ experience in each of the dealership’s reception areas.

The four 50-inch plasmas replace 16 small CRT TVs in the Lexus reception, and a back projection system in the Toyota Showroom. The plasma screens loop images of the latest cars released on the market, as well as current Lexus and Toyota TV commercials.

The plasmas are positioned on rolling stands, allowing them to be moved around the showrooms, as the facility is also used for industry nights, trade evenings and special events. The plasmas were used recently during the Toyota Aurion launch.

David Forster, Dealership Marketing Manager, Sydney City Lexus and Sydney City Toyota, believes that the addition of the Panasonic plasmas has provided the showrooms with an ambience that suits the dealerships’ distinguished brand.

“Sydney City Lexus and Sydney City Toyota’s showrooms are luxurious environments designed to meet customers’ prestige automotive needs. Panasonic’s plasma displays are a high-tech, modern way of showcasing our latest innovations. They allow us to fulfill our philosophy of providing unprecedented levels of automotive service and convenience through our ‘lifestyle showroom’ experience,” he said.

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Star Jewels’ displays dazzle with Panasonic plasmas

Digital media is one of the fastest growing advertising mediums in Australia. Through on-site and digital display media, Australian companies are discovering not only a dynamic and measurable marketing channel, but a fruitful revenue generator.

Star Jewels, a new chain of Australian jewelers, has installed four Panasonic 42-inch SD plasmas in each of its two stores recently opened in New South Wales. Star Jewels use the plasma screens to showcase products and promotions, and to entice customers into the stores.

The unique shop fitouts were recognised by Westfield Shopping Centres, with Star Jewels Liverpool winning a ‘Best New Fitout’ Award. Star Jewels Eastgardens was also nominated in the same category.

Star Jewels’ General Manager, Deepak Khurana, said the Panasonic screens are used primarily as an onsite marketing tool where product images are played on a continuous loop. The screens give Star Jewels stores a point of difference from other shops in the busy mall environments.

“We chose the Panasonic screens to create a dynamic display that positions us separately from every other shop in the mall. It is a competitive market and we are the only shop in the centre to have this kind of innovative display. The screens have been very successful in drawing potential customers into the store,” Kharuna said.

Star Jewels opened its first store at Liverpool Westfield in June and the second at Westfield Eastgardens, Sydney, at the end of November 2006.

Khurana says that five new stores will be open by June 2007 and he plans to fitout the new stores with more Panasonic plasma screens.




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Leading the way in next generation commercial plasma displays

Panasonic's next generation of professional plasmas for commercial displays, includes the latest range of stylish silver 37-inch and 42-inch ‘hospitality’ plasma displays designed for hotels and resorts, plus the world’s largest plasma panel.

The new line-up includes eight new models, offering the broadest range of plasma sizes in the world. The range includes the Full High Definition (Full HD – 1920 x 1080p) 103-inch model – as well as a 65-inch Full HD panel, 42 and 50-inch HD models and 42-inch SD models.

The panels offer a significant visual experience in the commercial environment and provide the flexibility to create a system tailored to commercial installation needs.

With the image quality, reliability and long service life needed for commercial applications, the panels have built-in multi function slots with a range of optional terminal boards that allow the user to connect screens in a network and to manage and update content in real-time via a server.

Brendan Frawley, Business Systems Group, Panasonic, said, “Panasonic’s latest professional plasma panels are designed to meet a broad spectrum of requirements in this fast growing area. They can be used as a revenue stream for advertising in high-traffic public areas, as high-resolution displays and signage, or as communication tools in specialised areas.”

Panasonic’s giant Full HD 103-inch and 65-inch panels offer the highest quality resolution currently available, delivering an outstanding high-resolution image with outstanding detail and colour accuracy.

The ultra-slim hospitality plasma models have outstanding picture quality and are ideal for luxury





hotels wanting to offer customers a chic in-room experience. The stylish silver bezel and pedestal match modern room décor.

Panasonic’s expertise in plasma manufacturing can be attributed to the panels’ outstanding contrast ratio of up to 10,000:1 for deep, rich blacks, as well as smooth motion, fine gradation and colour depth.






Projecting the right image

State-of-the-art Panasonic audio visual equipment on show in the world’s tallest residential building

The world’s tallest residential building, Q1, which celebrated its first anniversary in December 2006, impresses Gold Coast visitors with its breathtaking luxury – and has a Panasonic audio visual experience to match.

The state-of-the art display solution includes two powerful Panasonic PT-DW7000E-K venue projectors, two 50-inch plasma panels and a range of wireless data projectors.

“We wanted audio visual equipment that was contemporary and edgy, yet the most effective for the unique environment we had created. This was particularly important for the Q1 Observation Deck where we screen a high definition presentation as part of the overall visitor experience,” said Sahba Abedian, Managing Director for Sunland Constructions – the company that erected Q1 in 2005.

On arrival, guests experience a three-metre high glass panel that runs images rear-projected by a Panasonic PT-DW7000E-K projector. The fully-automated projector turns itself on and off, running from 9.00am until midnight daily. A dual lamp system increases brightness and reduces lamp burn-out.

John Stokes, Director of SkyTech Systems, responsible for installing all audio visual equipment in Q1, said the Panasonic projector was chosen for its outstanding 6,000-lumen brightness and 4000:1 contrast ratio.

“The unit rear projects on to a high gain film attached to the glass in the Q1 foyer. Coupled with the high contrast ratio and brightness of the projector, this achieves an image that is even visible in the glare of the full western sun in the afternoon. At night, the projector automatically switches to operating on one

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lamp at half power,” Stokes said.

On the 78th floor, where visitors enjoy a view from Brisbane to Byron Bay, a fully-automated Panasonic cinema solution, including another PT-DW7000E-K projector, offers guests a true Gold Coast experience with a 17-minute movie on the history of the Coast and the Q1 building.

The world’s 20th tallest building provides five-star accommodation for Gold Coast’s numerous holiday-makers and travelling business people, and is home to 526 apartments.







BlueScope Steel installs high performance DLP projectors

BlueScope Steel has installed seven Panasonic DLP (digital light processing) projectors at its Port Kembla Steelworks as large viewing screens for critical process control of manufacturing operations.

Three Panasonic PT-D5600E and four PT-D5500E XGA projectors are installed in control rooms for the BlueScope Steel Slab Yards, Coke Ovens, Process Control Centre (PCC) and Blast Furnaces, and run video footage and graphical displays of the process lines from over 100 cameras. Operators monitor the footage and control the steel-making process via PCs next to the projectors.

BlueScope Steel is one of Australia and New Zealand’s leading steel companies. The Port Kembla operation is an integrated steelworks where all three of the major phases of production (ironmaking, steelmaking and shaping) are undertaken on one site, making it Australia’s biggest steelworks and capable of producing more than five million tonnes of steel per year.

“With the Port Kembla Steelworks in operation 24 hours a day, seven days a week, we needed a high performance, reliable solution that could withstand continuous operation,” said Chris Reid, Senior Automation Engineer, BlueScope Steel.

“Panasonic’s projectors delivered the most cost-effective large-screen solution for the high level of detail displayed, where the image is fairly static. We chose Panasonic because we knew their projectors would provide the longevity required,” he said.

The PT-D5600E has a high-brightness of 5,000 lumens and an XGA (1024 x 768) resolution, so it can operate equally well in both light and dark rooms.










10,000 lumen projectors designed for staging and e-cinema

The world’s lightest 10,000 lumen projectors – the Panasonic DW10000E (Full HD) and the PT-D10000E (SXGA) – are designed for use in large venues and combine the most compact design in their class with high reliability and outstanding imaging.

Michelle Aiken, Product Manager, Business Systems Group, said, “These new large venue projectors are very compact and light compared to other models in their class. At 32kg, they offer greater versatility in installation while also delivering the features to give staging companies and large venues the reliability they need, including liquid cooling and a four-lamp system to ensure the show will always go on.

The projectors are a competitively priced offering that is outstanding for large venues and events – including cinema complexes, conference centres, indoor entertainment/sporting arenas, and concert halls. Staging companies will find them ideal for special evening events such as music or film festivals.

The PT-DW10000E projector offers Full High Definition (Full HD) resolution (1920x1080p), and is true widescreen. Both new models are ideal for the venue projector and e-cinema markets, where growth is predicted in 2007.

Both projectors are sold without lenses, allowing customers to select the optional lens they require for their specific performance requirements. For further convenience, it is possible to use the same lenses and optical input modules as the DW7000 and D7700 Series. The lenses can be changed in minutes using a release system on the front housing.









Tough Talk

Next generation Toughbooks released

Panasonic has introduced three new Panasonic Toughbooks to the Australian market: the CF-19 convertible tablet PC, the CF-30 notebook and the CF-08 wireless tablet. CF-19 and CF-30 These MIL-SPEC-certified notebooks incorporate Panasonic’s renowned rugged features – such as magnesium alloy cases, sealed keyboards and ports, flexible internal connectors and shock-mounting – that ultimately deliver the highest levels of reliability in the industry. With the CF-30, Panasonic delivers the brightest notebook display available today, without compromising battery life. It boasts an industry-leading 1,000 Nit (candelas per square metre, a measure of brightness) LCD, providing the brightness of a fixed mount display in a portable computer. The CF-30 is the first mobile notebook to achieve this milestone in screen brightness. The CF-19 is also designed for enhanced readability, with a bright 550 Nit screen with a new low-reflection coating. To safeguard valuable data and to enable customers to comply with increasing data security regulations, the new Toughbooks are as secure as they are rugged. Both the CF-30 notebook and CF-19 convertible tablet are equipped with a cable lock slot, Trusted Platform Module (TPM v1.2) security chip, and feature an optional fingerprint scanner. The CF-30 can also be configured with an optional SmartCard reader. CF-08 The Toughbook CF-08 is an ultra-portable display that empowers users to access corporate computing resources wirelessly. It can be integrated into a multi-client WLAN system or used for peer to peer communications. Because there is no hard drive, there are no issues about security or information sharing. It is designed to be hard wearing for constant

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use, with an impact-resistant magnesium casing that protects it against drops from up to 120cm on a concrete surface, while a special seal protects all ports against dust or water penetration.






Tough Talk

Rex Pemberton completes ‘Seven Summits’ quest

Rex Pemberton has completed his ‘Seven Summits’ quest, taking him into the record books as the youngest Australian to climb seven of the highest peaks over the four corners of the globe, in less than two years.

Already the youngest Australian to summit Everest and having conquered five of the seven summits, Rex has now completed his bid to climb the highest mountain on every continent.

Accompanying Rex on these two latest challenges, as well as earlier treks, including his hike up Everest, was a Panasonic Toughbook notebook CF-18 to support expedition communications and Panasonic imaging technology to capture footage of his achievements. Atop Everest, Rex’s Toughbook CF-18 exceeded manufacturing specifications by continuing to function at 6,300 (20,669 feet) metres.

Rex said, “In the extreme conditions of mountaineering, I need equipment that can stand up to extraordinarily harsh punishment, such as huge temperature extremes, vibration from transportation through the mountains, as well as destructive elements such as snow, dust and condensation.”

The Toughbook’s long battery life and rugged features allowed Rex to maintain a crucial link with the outside world during his entire journey. He was able to log a daily diary, read e-mails from home and store digital photos and video footage, even in extreme weather conditions such as temperatures down to -50 degrees Celsius.

The seven peaks are: Mt Everest 8848m Nepal, Asia (Climbed 2005) Mt McKinley 6195m Alaska, Nth America (Climbed June 2006) Mt Elbrus 5633m Russia (Climbed July 2006) Mt Kilimanjaro 5963m Africa (Climbed) Mt Kosciuszko 2228m Australia (Climbed) Vinson Massive 4897m Antarctica (Climbed




November 2006) Mt Aconcagua 6962m South America (December 2006)

For more information on Rex and his treks, please visit www.rexpemberton.com.au.


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Tough Talk

Toughbooks help sustain the future of Centennial Parklands

Centennial Parklands, Sydney, is using Panasonic Toughbooks as part of their ongoing asset maintenance program. The Toughbooks play a vital role in helping to sustain one of Sydney’s favourite parks for future generations.

The Toughbooks, which are being used to assess and monitor the parklands’ tree growth, health and safety level over time, were chosen for their compact size, durability, water-resistant keyboard and LCD screen, as well as their ability to house and run vital GPS asset tracking systems.

According to Centennial Parklands’ Director of Park Assets, Ian Innes, the tree replacement program is a vital strategy to ensure the Parklands maintains and protects its flora assets into the future, in the face of ever increasing stresses caused by the harsh effects of the growing urban environment. In fact, it is estimated that the Parklands – made up of Centennial, Queen and Moore Parks in Sydney city – will need to replace around 60 per cent of its tree population over the next 50 to 60 years, the equivalent of about 250 to 300 trees a year.

In an effort to get the community involved in the tree replacement program, the Parklands has recently introduced a fund raising campaign called The Parklands Tree Transplant Appeal that gives the public an opportunity to sponsor their own tree and monitor its progress. Sponsors are given a certificate and GPS mark on their tree location, and receive a Toughbook-generated report on their tree every three to six months to follow its progress throughout its life.

Innes is hoping one day to convert as much of Centennial Park’s ongoing asset information management tasks to the ruggedised notebooks as possible.

“My vision is that one day we don’t have to use any




paper at all and all our work is done on our notebooks,” he said.






Tough Talk

Coca-Cola Amatil takes Toughbooks to the road

Coca-Cola Amatil, the bottler of Coca-Cola in Australia, has rolled out 600 Panasonic CF-18 Toughbooks to business development representatives across the country, in a multi-million dollar deal. The Panasonic Toughbooks are being used daily by the representatives, for capturing market and outlet information, conceptual selling and taking customer orders.

Looking for a reliable notebook that could support its business development teams on the road for long periods of time, Coca-Cola Amatil took into consideration the recurring costs that accompany notebook failures, and chose the Panasonic Toughbook for its low total cost of ownership (TCO) delivered through rugged design features.

Michael Sumner, Vendor Relations Manager for Coca-Cola Amatil’s Information Systems in Australasia, said the TCO of the Panasonic Toughbook was a significant consideration for Coca-Cola Amatil in making this decision, as the acquisition cost represents only a fraction of total cost to businesses in the long term.

“Device failure rates push the TCO up, so even though the Panasonic Toughbook was more expensive up front than others we looked at, its low failure rate was a huge factor in our decision making process,” he said. “The Panasonic Toughbook’s ability to withstand shocks and knocks, and its built-in wireless capability were huge selling points for us. Tests showed high breakage and failure rates with external or plug-in wireless cards, so embedded wireless as standard was particularly important.” The bright touch screen capability was also important to the Coca-Cola Amatil team who spend their days in and out of stores, bottle shops, cool rooms, cellars and vaults – anywhere that Coca-Cola Amatil products are stored or sold.




When researching notebooks, Coca-Cola Amatil performed extensive field trials with various devices and manufacturers. From this research, Coca-Cola Amatil undertook a comprehensive economic evaluation that uncovered hundreds of thousands of dollars a year in projected savings to the Coca-Cola business by deploying the Toughbooks. Brendan Trewartha, Director Business Systems Division, Panasonic Australia, said, “With over 30 percent of Australian companies’ sales departments now using notebook*, Coca-Cola Amatil’s purchase illustrates the growing need for organisations to critically analyse the total cost of owning a notebook for sales force automation. The Panasonic Toughbook’s rugged features ensure a higher rate of reliability over a standard notebook, which is a key consideration in maintaining the productivity of mobile sales teams.” According to Mr Sumner, Coca-Cola Amatil has plans to purchase additional Toughbooks, as well as broaden the use of their notebooks, in the near future. “We intend on using the Panasonic Toughbooks as true tablet devices with a workflow solution, increasing the number of wireless applications on the devices and introducing signature capture with the touch screen capability,” he said. * IDC Australia, June 2005






Broadcast News

ABC chooses P2 future for news and current affairs. Panasonic has secured a three-year contract to supply the Australian Broadcasting Corporation with P2 solid-state equipment for their News and Current Affairs acquisition requirements. This contract represents one of the largest single purchases of Broadcast P2 equipment in the world.

The ABC roll out commenced in February and will take four months to deliver 89 AJ-SPX900 cameras to all ABC sites around Australia, and their many overseas bureaux. Numerous AJ-SPD850 P2 decks, AJ-HPM100E P2 Mobiles, AJ-PCS060 P2 Stores and other accessories will be supplied as part of the contract.

Together with the recent adoption of P2 in the US by the Fox Network for their 35 company owned stations, this means that P2 will continue to make significant inroads into worldwide Broadcast markets as is has done for the past three years. Panasonic is proud to enter into a partnership with the ABC for this major roll out of P2 product in Australia.

The hand held AG-HVX202 continues to be adopted by many new users, maintaining its outstanding success locally and around the world. Its release saw the introduction of HD to the P2 line up. This, and the ABC’s decision to adopt the 2/3” Broadcast SPX900 camcorder, ensures P2 will have a bright future in Australia.

This year will see the introduction of three new Broadcast P2 HD Camcorders, all utilising 2/3” CCD’s. The AJ-SPX2100 will be released this month and is targeted at HD Production and News. A budget and high end EFP model will follow later in the year.

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Broadcast News

Panasonic P2 brings a new era of broadcast technology. News gathering is entering a new era in mobility, performance and convenience with the advent of Panasonic’s P2 recording technology. P2 – “Professional Plug-in” – is an innovative, solid-state plug-in PC card-type media. P2 requires no moving parts, tape or disc, and is extremely rugged, assuring outstanding anti-vibration and anti-shock performance.

All Panasonic’s P2 Series equipment records in MXF – a file format offering exceptional PC versatility in the news production workflow. For example, the P2 technology provides random access to thumbnail-displayed scenes for instant playback and on-air transmission.

P2 offers reliable and compact HD image capturing and storage, in both 720p and 1080i formats. The P2 card mounts directly into the PC card slot on a PC, so users have instant access for nonlinear editing and faster data transferring into the network. One P2 card can be re-written numerous times, with no degradation or drop-outs, so less gear is needed for greater mobility in the field with a smaller crew. Users can also transfer files directly from their camera into Final Cut Pro and Avid.

Because the P2 camera-recorders have no drive mechanism, they provide reliable recording even when subjected to shock and vibration. The full-size P2 cams have five card slots and offer seamless, continuous recording over all five. Cards load and unload quickly and a hot-swap function lets users replace cards on the fly.









Broadcast News

P2 HD camcorder reaches Australian shores.

Panasonic’s first shoulder mounted, multi format 2/3-inch P2 HD Camcorder, the AJ-HPX2100 is now available in Australia.

With growing support from broadcasters for IT based production tools, and following the successful launch of the AG-HVX200 P2 minicam, the AJ-HPX2100 is a full sized, highly specified camcorder and offers production companies and broadcasters the opportunity to do away with worldwide format boundaries and take HD and P2 production to a new level.

Launched at NAB last year (see events update), the AJ-HPX2100 camcorder is a global Panasonic product and since launch has already generated an enormous amount of interest from national and local broadcasters. The versatility of the AJ-HPX2100 makes it an ideal unit for news and sport production, as well as anything from drama to promotions to documentary creation. With major broadcasters such as the BBC looking to adopt full IT and HD production workflows over the next few years, the AJ-HPX2100 is making this possible now.

Key features include:

● 2/3” 1.0M pixels Progressive 3CCD● High sensitivity up to F10(2000lx)● 5 P2 card slots with hot swapping capability

giving continuous shooting.● ND/CC Filter (two filter wheels)● Low maintenance● High speed transference to NLE● High reliability● High shock resistance● Proven stability of DVCPRO HD● Multiple IT interfaces

The AJ-HPX2100 achieves everything the modern production world is looking for – a professional, rugged, tapeless and multi format HD/SD switchable camcorder that gives outstanding results in any



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environment, and delivers a true IT acquisition solution.

For more information on the AJ-HPX2100 please visit www.panasonic-broadcast.com


http://www.panasonic-broadcast.com/





Streamlined Document Solutions

Panasonic Documents Solutions Kick Off the New Year

On Jan 23rd, key Document Solutions dealers nationwide were invited to attend the Documents Solutions’ Kick off the New Year product launch event at the Sofitel on the Gold Coast.

Launch sessions were conducted during the day and, in the evening, attendees were shuttled to the Palazzo Versace Hotel for a dinner with special guests Tim Horan and select current Wallabies/Queensland Reds players.

Over 50 dealers from the top 25 dealerships attended the event, which was hosted by the Panasonic Document Solutions team.

The models launched included the 2 new Colour Multifunction Copiers – DP-C264 and DP-C354, the 2 new mono multifunction copiers – DP-8045 and DP-8060 as well as an overview of the colour whiteboard – UB-8325.

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New WORKiO multifunction devices for office networks.

Four new WORKiO multifunction devices are being rolled-out for office networks – from a 16ppm network copier and printer to a high-speed 60ppm workgroup model that includes copying, printing, scanning and internet fax out of the box.

Andrew Glenn, Group Manager, Documents, Panasonic, said: “Panasonic offers powerful network printing solutions for busy offices of all sizes. Our 20-page per minute DP-8020E and 16-page per minute DP-8016P are packed with business-centric operating, performance and security features. They are cost-effective, energy-efficient and ultra-reliable solutions.

These two new compact business copiers offer out-of-the-box network printing and a compact form factor for today’s space-challenged office environments. The new models are ready to start work as soon as they’re plugged in. The DP-8020E is also supplied standard with scanning and internet fax.

“For the business workgroup, the high-performance DP-8060 and DP-8045 seamlessly integrate scanning, copying, printing, faxing and document management, as well as featuring enhanced digital data security and an easy to use design,” Andrew Glenn added.

The DP-8060 and DP-8045 are fast enough for the requirements of large organisations, and flexible enough to grow with business needs. So users don’t have to constantly refill bins, the copiers have a capacity of 2,150 sheets with options to increase to as much as 6,250.



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New colour multifunction devices earn BERTL four star rating

Panasonic’s new colour multifunction devices, which have the fastest start up time in the market of only 15 seconds and were launched in January this year, have both been awarded the prestigious BERTL four star highly recommended rating.

With added reliability, productivity and security features, the DP-C354 and DP-C264 both offer network printing and scanning, plus copying and faxing. The DP-C354 is capable of printing and copying up to 35ppm monochrome and up to 26ppm colour, with the DP-2C64 printing and copying both monochrome and colour at up to 26ppm.

The DP-C354 and DP-C264 boast impressive security features ranging from daily data deletion and network user authentication to complete hard disk erasure.

The scanning technology makes sharing and managing images and documents more convenient and time efficient. Scanned documents can be sent straight to email, with up to 1,000 email addresses programmable into the machine’s local address book.

In addition, the SD card slot removes the need for a PC to transfer images, enabling printing direct from, and scanning to, an SD card.

BERTL is a testing house that provides independent research, analysis, specifications, and information for the digital media world, with the world’s largest library of product reviews and data on more than 5,000 devices.









Voice of Business

Panasonic calls into Telstra stores.

Panasonic demonstrated its latest Communication Solutions at the annual Telstra Business Systems channel sales conference, held at the Royal Pines Resort on the Gold Coast in October.

The conference was the largest in five years with over 200 dealers and 25 exhibitors attending the event, which this year was themed “Transforming to Win”.

The conference focused on the NextG 3G network and the future of business, unlocking opportunities in the SME and Corporate/Government business space as well as strategies and roadmaps for the forthcoming year.

Jerry Ng, Product Manager, Communications Solutions, Business Systems Group and Andrea O’Halloran, represented Panasonic at the conference, providing assistance at the Panasonic stand.

The Panasonic stand featured Communications Solutions including displays of the TDA600 Hybrid IP-PBX system and the CF-18 and CF-29 Toughbooks.

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Voice of Business

Panasonic stands out at Telstra’s National Dealer Conference

Panasonic demonstrated its latest Communication Solutions at the annual Telstra Business Systems channel sales conference, held at the Royal Pines Resort on the Gold Coast in October.

The conference was the largest in five years with over 200 dealers and 25 exhibitors attending the event, which this year was themed “Transforming to Win”.

The conference focused on the NextG 3G network and the future of business, unlocking opportunities in the SME and Corporate/Government business space as well as strategies and roadmaps for the forthcoming year.

Jerry Ng, Product Manager, Communications Solutions, Business Systems Group and Andrea O’Halloran, represented Panasonic at the conference, providing assistance at the Panasonic stand.

The Panasonic stand featured Communications Solutions including displays of the TDA600 Hybrid IP-PBX system and the CF-18 and CF-29 Toughbooks.










Staff Spotlight

Tough operator

Toughbook Group Manager, John Wood, is dedicated to developing products that deliver real productivity improvements for Australian organisations.

According to John the most important thing an organisation like Panasonic can do in an increasingly digital and mobile world is develop products that genuinely make life easier for the user. His role as Group Manager for Toughbooks gives him the chance to do just that.

For John, his role is about ensuring that Panasonic continues to achieve growth, whilst maintaining its leadership position in the ruggedised notebook market.

“Panasonic is in an excellent market position in just about every segment of its business, particularly in the ruggedised notebook space where it is a clear leader. I’m a huge believer in the value that Panasonic puts on making life better. The types of customers that use Toughbooks see significant improvements in their business by utilising this technology,” he said.

Prior to joining Panasonic, John spent eight years living and working in Asia. In his previous role as VP of sales and marketing for Swiss-based company, Leica Geo Systems, John was responsible for Russia, central Asia, Middle East, India China, Southeast Asia and NZ.

At Panasonic John oversees the marketing and sales strategies for the Toughbook division. He tries to spend about 50% of his time with resellers or customers – a goal he is pleased to be achieving at the moment.

John says the measures of success in this role are a satisfied customer base, knowing you’ve exceeded a customer’s expectations and seeing the people you work with enjoy their roles and go on to more senior roles within the company.

When he’s not working, John says it’s highly likely

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he’ll be watching rugby union. “If I’m not at the game, which is rare, then I’ll be at home in front of my plasma,” he said.






Staff Spotlight

NOT JUST AN AVERAGE JOE

Joe Serra’s motto is “always follow up and follow through” – an important philosophy for the man who has been given the task of heading up Panasonic’s AV and IT divisions as National Sales Manager – AV/IT.

Meeting daily with channel partners, dealers and distributors, Joe looks after all sales in the pro-AV segment – the commercial AV and IT products, including commercial plasmas and commercial grade projectors.

Joe sees Panasonic as a leader in the commercial AV space – a segment he says is growing at a phenomenal rate.

“I saw this role as an opportunity to work with an organisation that has a long history of leadership the market, in a division that is really moving and shaking at the moment, with lots of potential for growth,” he said.

Going above and beyond is what Joe does best. In fact, when asked to think of three things he aimed to do in this role, Joe came up with four. They included: strengthening and growing relationships with Panasonic’s channel partners, driving and motivating his team, getting away from his desk to interact with dealers and sales people, and to have fun.

With an IT and training background, Joe also works hard to demystify technology, wherever possible putting technological jargon into layman’s terms.

A family man, Joe says that his boys, at 5 and 8, are at an age where they require lots of time and dedication from him – and he’s enjoying the excuse to play cricket, soccer and swim every weekend.

His advice for anyone wanting to follow in his footsteps is to be honest, whether imparting good or bad news: “In business, honestly is heavily embraced.





It’s definitely the best policy,” Joe said.






Events Update

New Toughbooks launched across Australia

The next generation of Panasonic Toughbooks was launched during February to more than 300 dealers and customers across Australia.

The roadshow, with events held in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth, included a hands on session with the new models - the CF-19 convertible tablet PC, the CF-30 notebook and the CF-08 wireless tablet – and demonstrations of the Toughbook military testing.

There were presentations from a Telstra representative, who spoke on the company’s deployment of more than 5,000 Toughbooks and the opportunities provided by the growth in 3G; and from adventurer Rex Pemberton – the youngest Australian to climb the seven summits.

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Events Update

Panasonic wins Best Custom Stand at Shopfit Expo

The Panasonic stand was awarded the "Best Custom Stand" at the Shopfit Display and Design Expo, held in Melbourne during the 19th - 21st September. The expo showcases the latest in retail technology solutions, point of sale equipment, financial and back office software, shop fitting products and retail design innovations. More than 4,000 delegates attended the three day exhibition.

Panasonic’s entire stand was networked and controlled using embedded PCs and PADS software. Live demonstrations were given throughout the expo to show visitors how content could be structured, scheduled and updated remotely. A large 4 x 65-inch plasma wall at the rear of the stand was used to create eye-catching impact, and an interactive touch panel screen was also on display.

● FACT: 87% of retailers intend to make an investment in digital signage within the next 12 months*

*Panasonic survey, September 2006










Events Update

P2 HD camcorder in the spotlight at Digital Media Festival

Panasonic has given a special preview of its first shoulder-mounted, multi-format 2/3” P2 HD camcorder – the AJ-HPX2100 – for the first time in Australia. The big day was the Digital Media Festival, held at the Sydney Convention Centre, 5th to 7th December 2006.

The camera was originally launched at the annual National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) electronic media show in the USA last year, and since then has generated interest from some of the world’s major broadcasters for its format versatility. The AJ-HPX2100 is ideal for any style of broadcasting, from news to documentaries to sport (Please see the ‘Broadcast News’ section for more detail on the AJ-HPX2100).

Also showcased at the Digital Media Festival was the Panasonic AG-HVX202EN, the world’s first hand-held, solid state memory, high definition video camera, which records in both high definition (HD) and standard definition (SD) on solid-state P2 memory cards.




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Events Update

Panasonic focus on mobility and convergence.

IDC’s Convergence and Mobility Forum on 19th September last year presented an independent assessment of the latest convergence and mobility issues and trends facing Australian organisations today.

The Sydney event brought together senior IDC analysts and executives from leading vendors and service providers, to discuss mobile strategies, new technology and the management of business efficiency.

As a diamond sponsor, Panasonic played an important role in educating attendees on mobile computing in Australia. Panasonic’s Deputy Managing Director Steve Rust presented “An Australian Perspective on Computing for the Outside World” which addressed fit-for-purpose computing, why computer capabilities must match the user environment, and the major causes of notebook damage and failure in Australia.










Events Update

Resellers getting tough with new accreditation program.

A national accreditation program was launched in October 2006 to encourage and assist Toughbook resellers in growing both their expertise in the ruggedised notebook market, and their business.

The program aims to help resellers of Panasonic Toughbooks benefit from Panasonic’s leading position in the ruggedised notebook market. To become accredited, reseller requirements include knowledge in selling computer solutions into vertical markets, a specialist sales force and completion of both technical and sales training on the Panasonic Toughbook range.

John Penn, Product Manager, Toughbook, Panasonic said, “With a 70 percent market share globally, Toughbook is the leading ruggedised notebook on the market. The industry is also growing at a phenomenal rate as businesses increasingly recognise the benefits of deploying ruggedised solutions for their mobile work forces. Panasonic is committed to sharing its expertise in this area with resellers and helping them reach their full potential as a business.”







