Sharp Introduces 2003 Appliance Line

April 11 /PRNewswire/ -- Sharp Electronics today showcases a range of one-of-a-kind appliance products that tie into the company's vision for the ultimate high-style, high-performance kitchen at the 2003 Kitchen/Bath Industry Show. The company is demonstrating its complete line of 2003 microwave ovens that includes stainless steel models, the critically-acclaimed high speed oven, air purifiers featuring proprietary Plasmacluster Ion technology, and kitchen- and bathroom-mountable AQUOS Liquid Crystal Televisions in lifestyle settings at Sharp's show booth.

"This exhibit highlights many of the ways Sharp can help enhance people's lives through distinct products and technologies," said Bob Scaglione, vice president of marketing, Sharp Electronics Corporation. "Our 2003 appliance line is designed to make the kitchen experience a more enjoyable one, by being as design-conscious, technologically sophisticated and user-friendly as possible."

Following are brief descriptions of Sharp's key products on display at the 2003 Kitchen/Bath Industry Show.

High Speed Oven (model R-90GC)
Sharp's R-90GC high speed oven produces delicious results and cooks food up to five times faster than conventional ovens. Preprogrammed to automatically cook more than 200 foods and recipes, the R-90GC is ideal for families looking to free up time for other activities and homeowners who are "on-the-go", yet want quality meals cooked quickly. The high speed oven's technology is as professional as its looks, with a 2,900-watt advanced hot-air circulation system that allows for the rapid cooking. The R-90GC is available now at a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $1,299.95. Optional built-in kits are available for 27- and 30-inch installations.

Over the Counter Microwave Ovens (models R-1200, R-1201, R-1210, R-1211, R-1214)
The Over the Counter (OTC) Carousel microwave oven line was developed by Sharp as a new product category in response to consumer demand for more flexible microwave oven solutions that help reclaim counter space and blend into today's decor with a new stainless steel model. The OTC microwave ovens offer a new approach in kitchen design by enabling easy and affordable installation in previously hard-to-reach places, including corner cabinets, above islands, over food preparation areas and in nearly any kitchen wall cabinet. Consumers can simply place a mounting bracket where desired* and attach the microwave. Some models feature sensor technology, which automatically determines optimum cooking times and power levels by sensing the vapors foods emit as they cook. These microwaves also feature accent and task lighting, with Auto-Touch controls on the door at eye level. Model R-1214 is the newest addition to the line, featuring sensor cooking technology and a stainless steel finish. It will be available in August at an MSRP of $399.95. Models R-1210 and R-1211 (with sensor cooking technology) are currently available at an MSRP of $299.95. Models R-1200 and R-1201 (non-sensor) are currently available at an MSRP of $279.95.

Over the Range Microwave Oven (model R-1514)
Combining elegance and practicality with optimal cooking functionality, Sharp's Over the Range R-1514 is a stainless steel microwave oven that attains a clean, sophisticated look by discreetly concealing the control panel behind the door, giving the glass front a clean, sophisticated look that fits into any kitchen decor. In addition, the 14 1/8-inch turntable is the largest in its class, ensuring it can accommodate even a large casserole dish. The R-1514 is currently available at an MSRP of $429.95.

Stainless Steel Microwave Ovens (R-216FS, R-316FS, R-1754, R-1514, R-1874 and R-930CS, R-530ES, R-430CS)
Sharp's stainless steel microwave ovens have been designed to meet the growing demand for sophisticated equipment in the home, as well as fit into today's kitchen design trends. Emerging as a central cooking tool in contemporary kitchens, Sharp's stainless steel microwave ovens allow consumers to integrate the microwave with other stainless appliances, and some models have sensor technology for greater no-guesswork results. This line includes the following models:

• R-216FS and R-316FS Carousel models, available at an MSRP of $89.95 and $109.95, respectively
• R-1754 Touch Screen Over the Range model, available at an MSRP of $599.95
• R-1874 Over the Range Convection model, available at an MSRP of $729.95
• R-1514 Over the Range model, available at an MSRP of $429.95
• R-930CS, R-530ES, R-430CS countertop models, available at MSRPs of $599.95 for the
• R-930CS, $329.95 for the R-530ES and $299.95 for the R-430CS.

"Hide and Sleek" Countertop Microwave Oven (model R-405H)
Sharp's countertop microwave oven features a unique and stylish beveled- front "wave" design and includes a concealed control panel located behind the oven's door. This oven was created with design in mind. Therefore, the controls are easy to reach and hidden from view. The R-405H also features a five-digit, two-color lighted display, automatic cooking, reheating and defrost programs to defrost meats and poultry evenly, Minute Plus which sets the oven at high for one minute with a single touch, 11 variable power levels and three programmable cooking stages. The R-405H will be available in May at an MSRP of $99.95.

Air Purifiers (models FP-N25CX, FP-N40CX and FP-N60CX)
Sharp has entered the air purifier category with the introduction of a unique air purification system. The purifier is based on Sharp's innovative Plasmacluster Ion technology which generates positive and negative ions and releases them into the air to help purify the air. The new air purification system uses the company's Library Quiet system for near-silent operation and can easily be situated in any room of the home or office to provide clean, comfortable air quality. Sharp's FP-N40CX and FP-N60CX Plasmacluster Ion air purifiers will be available in June. Pricing will be determined at a future date. The FP-N25CX will be available later in 2003.

AQUOS Liquid Crystal Televisions in 10- to 37-inch screen sizes
Sharp adds even more state-of-the-art quality, styling and size options to its line of AQUOS Liquid Crystal Televisions. Select models in 10-, 13- and 15-inch screen sizes are available with mounting brackets, making them ideal for kitchen and bathroom applications. Lightweight and less than 2 1/2-inches thin, Sharp's AQUOS televisions are available in a variety of colors and offer elegant design, high brightness, superior picture quality and stereo speakers. In addition, the new AQUOS line uses sophisticated ASV (Advanced Super View) panels featuring Black TFT, an anti-glare coating for the ultimate viewing experience. MSRPs range from $799.95 to $7,499.95 (effective May 1, 2003).

For more information on Sharp's full line of products, contact Sharp Electronics, Sharp Plaza, Mahwah, New Jersey 07430 or call 1-800-BE-SHARP. For online product information, visit the Sharp Web site at www.sharpusa.com.

*consult operator's manual for any limitations in installation

Source: Sharp Electronics Corporation