JVC 1999 Annual Report Download - page 9

JVC 1999 7
next-generation D-VHS video decks enhanced with net-
working functions offered by iLink (IEEE 1394-compliant
interface). In July, these new decks were prepared for
commercialization as the first D-VHS products in Japan.
D-VHS decks will go on sale this year in Europe. Further
efforts are being applied to add D-VHS products with
more features to the lineup with our sights set on making
D-VHS a central part in the networking era.
Video camcorders have already digitized and recent
developments have taken this technology one step fur-
ther. Our mini DV camcorders have improved in line with
increased value placed on mobility and personalization—
world trends that have evolved in step with digitization.
Miniaturization has progressed toward achieving the
As the developer of the VHS format that became the
wellspring for video, one of the greatest inventions in the
20th century, JVC has led the industry in proposing new
technology and promoting its adoption since introducing
the first VHS VCR in 1976. JVC recently followed up by
developing the D-VHS standard for the digital era. A
majority of manufacturers around the world are moving
toward adopting the standard, which is backward com-
patible with the analog VHS format.
Starting our advance toward the era of full-scale digi-
tal broadcasting, in 1997 D-VHS equipment went on sale
in the United States, the first country to kick off digital
broadcasting. In March 1999, the Company formed a tie-
up with Sony Corporation for the joint development of
CONSUMER ELECTRONICS:
ADVANCING INTO PRODUCTS
NETWORKED WITH DIGITAL
TECHNOLOGY
In Japan, commencement of full-blown digital broadcast satellite (BS) transmissions
in December 2000, followed by digitization of terrestrial broadcasts, will propel the
emerging digital era forward. Based on these developments, increased demand is
predicted in the digital audiovisual market. JVC is concentrating its accumulation of
advanced technologies, prioritizing distribution of management resources and devel-
oping products for the new digital era. Taking advantage of systemizing and net-
working, the Company is restructuring marketing to more precisely meet customer
needs. The Company is also making the most of its strengths in combining hardware
and software. JVC is steadily preparing for the emergence of the digital era to ensure
the Company’s position as the preferred choice of customers for its product pro-
posals that thoroughly match needs, and to lead the industry in the audiovisual field.