Sony's GXD-L64H1 LCD survives elemental woes, ignores economic ones

We see plenty of rugged and semi-rugged entries in the portable market, but it's not often that you see a large-screen HDTV you'd want to touch with anything other than white gloves and (clean) cotton diapers. Sony's GXD-L64H1 is one of those rare durable displays, a 65-inch LCD that scores an IP54 on the International Protection Rating scale. That means it's almost entirely dust-proof and can survive a light shower, as demonstrated in a video after the break -- at least we presume that's what they're demonstrating, as the footage never shows the thing actually turning on again. The set is due to hit the market with a splash (sorry) in May at a price of ¥1,850,000, about $19,300, making us wonder if it can float in these economic times.

[Via Akihabara News]

[Darren Pillans Posted Feb 24th 2009 11:35AM]

I've always wanted a TV I could watch in the rain.

What the heck is the freakin point? What a complete waste of Sony's resources.

They should be putting every cent they can possibly afford into OLED development. Cause I'd like a 46 inch OLED TV in my living room ASAP.

P.S. Of course, I'll have to resist turning a hose onto it.

[(Unverified) Posted Feb 24th 2009 5:58PM]

I can see where this might come in handy in a few industry applications, near water, liquids, etc. I can think of a few places at a power plant were we use cameras to make sure we're working on the right thing, and this might work perfect next to steam / water / liquids and other harsher environments.

[danhawk911 Posted Feb 24th 2009 9:11PM]

don't forget theme parks and other outdoor business.

[(Unverified) Posted Feb 25th 2009 1:46AM]

The price is crazy high but holy crap I want one.