Monster, Tzero Team For TV Mounts With Wireless HDMI

By John Laposky -- TWICE, 4/23/2007

SUNNYVALE, CALIF. — Monster has formed a strategic partnership with ultrawideband technology (UWB) provider Tzero to develop flat-panel TV installation solutions incorporating wireless high-definition video distribution.

The first jointly developed product, due this fall, will incorporate a wall-mounting bracket, power conditioning and Tzero's trademarked Wireless for HDMI component.

Targeting the CE market and the do-it-yourself customer, the mount will allow placement of flat-panel TVs up to 60 inches anywhere in the home, space permitting, and allow users to wirelessly connect A/V components to the display, eliminating long cable runs and minimizing the hassles associated with typical HDTV installation, the companies said.

As part of partnership, Tzero will provide Monster with the exclusive right to sell and integrate Tzero's UWB products in mounting brackets, while Monster will use only Tzero components in all its wireless high-definition video products and accessories. The solutions will utilize WiMedia industry-standard technology for wireless video and will be interoperable with other WiMedia-compliant products including DVD players, set-top boxes and HDTVs.

The proprietary UWB technology conquers the challenge of streaming high-definition content, according to Dan Karr, Tzero's marketing and sales senior VP. "Streaming HD isn't well suited for traditional wireless networks, which are primarily data based," Karr said. "With a WiMedia-based design, the network components are all compatible."

The HDMI component consists of a 5-inch by 7-inch transmitter box and a mountable 3- by 4-inch receiver.

"Clearly, there is a growing need for products to help consumers simplify the HDTV installation process," said Mike Gulett, president/CEO of Tzero. "By teaming our technology expertise with Monster's innovative approach to advanced technology development and marketing, we will bring best-of-breed solutions to market that benefit from the strengths of both our companies."