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Introducing the Philips Pronto family (8/6/2004)

The Philips family of Pronto universal remote controls is stronger than ever with the advanced iPronto (SBCRU1000) heading a line that includes the latest version of the ProntoPro (SBCRU980), the Pronto NG (SBCRU950) and ProntoNEO (SBCRU930).

The iPronto is one of the most sophisticated universal remote controls on the planet and makes light work of managing the wide range of devices dotted around the digital home. Using either infra red or Ethernet connection, the stylish 'dashboard' is capable of controlling home cinema components, lighting, heating, security cameras and home networks, using a simple-to-use platform from one handset.

The iPronto is equipped with a massive 64MB memory and includes a built in infra-red code database of the latest devices from over 500 brands, allowing it to memorise device commands within seconds. The remote can also 'learn' commands from existing and future handsets not in the database.

Devices are easily controlled using the 'hard' outer buttons and the highly sensitive 6.4" touch LCD screen that clearly displays content thanks to its detailed VGA resolution. For added convenience, the user interface can be customised to suit specific tastes or requirements and also provide the flexibility to control multiple windows of information with simple and immediate fingertip navigation.

Using Wi-Fi 802.11b and an 'always on' broadband Internet connection, users can access customised Web content such as news and email, plus TV listings from its Electronic Programme Guide. The EPG service is automatically updated online and free of charge for the first three years.

The iPronto is future proof to enable future applications or accessories to be added. In stores now, the iPronto sells for approximately £1,400.

The fully programmable ProntoPro (SBCRU980) features a large 3.8" 64K LCD touch-screen panel and a 32MB built in memory that allows the user to create large custom configuration files. The stylish yet compact handset has a massive infra red code database that stores up to 1,100 commands, which are easily stored within seconds by simply pointing the ProntoPro at the particular device. Like the iPronto, it is possible to customise the user interface of the ProntoPro, changing its button colours, background and channel icons to suit. The ProntoPro is available now for a typical high street selling price of £750.

Philips' original intelligent remote control - the Pronto NG (SBCRU950) home theatre control panel Ð is the perfect control solution for the home cinema user. The attractive design incorporates a high-contrast 3.8" LCD touch-screen that provides intuitive control of infra- red home cinema components. The Pronto NG has 4MB internal memory, while the customisable user interface features a virtual keyboard that can be used for labeling buttons on the screen. Already available on the market, the Pronto NG is on sale for an approximate high street price of £300.

By adding the LI900 as an RF extender, the ProntoPro and Pronto NG can also control infra-red devices hidden away in cabinets or in other rooms. This is achieved by cleverly converting RF signals into IR and works within a 30-metre area. You can add as many RF receivers as you need, which can all be controlled separately by creating different zones, while the LI900 has 16 ID settings and four channels to avoid interference and can be bought for an approximate high street selling price of £130.

The ProntoNEO (SBCRU930) is the most affordable member of the Pronto range and uses the award-winning technology found in the more expensive Pronto NG and ProntoPro. Optimised for mainstream users, the ProntoNEO has more 'hard' buttons (for direct access to functions) than the other models in the range in order to simplify operation. Yet it features the same elegant design, incorporating a sensitive touch-screen monochrome LCD display and has built in commands for up to 250 devices from other brands, plus the ability to 'learn' remote commands from existing and future remote controls.

The on screen interface is also simpler while the 1MB memory contains operating software, built in device codes and user configuration settings. Like its more expensive relatives, users can personalise the user interface, layouts, buttons, labels and menus courtesy of the NEOedit software. Currently available, the ProntoNEO has an approximate selling price of £200.

www.philips.com