Developments in Plastic Optics for Projection Television Systems

In 1973, Advent Corp. introduced the first high-brightness, color projection-television system designed specifically for the consumer market. Although General Electric Co. was making excellent light-valve color systems, and Sony Corp. had produced single-tube systems, the Advent system, utilizing Schmidt-type reflective optics, is thought by many to be the most instrumental in stirring general public interest in projection television. This was followed by a less expensive unit Introduced in 1976 using aspheric plastic refractive optics. These earlier developments have led to the current intense activity to produce improved systems that will win consumer acceptance. It is no longer a question of when projection television will happen, but rather in what form, at what quality level, and at what price.