The Vikuiti Optical Core from 3M recently received the Silver Award in the 2006 Display Component of the Year program sponsored by the Society for Information Display (SID).

The primary design objectives for the Vikuiti optical core was to enable a high-quality television image with the lowest possible liquid crystal on silicon (LCOS) projection light-engine cost and to reduce light-engine component count. In addition, the Vikuiti optical core was developed using glass materials that do not include lead or cadmium in their formulations, allowing the product to exceed requirements of current EU RoHS Directive environmental regulations.

The key enabling technology in the Vikuiti optical core is multilayer optical film functioning as a polarizing beam splitter. Vikuiti Optical Core performance is industry leading, including contrast values typically exceeding 6000:1 with much higher transmission efficiency than other systems. The polarizing beam splitters have been shown to have over 30 percent higher transmission than MacNeille or wire grid polarizing beam splitter designs.

3M Precision Optics received its award at a luncheon held June 7 during the annual Society for Information Display Show held in San Francisco.

About 3M Precision Optics Inc.

3M Precision Optics Inc., a subsidiary of 3M, supplies a broad range of products enhancing the performance of CRT and microdisplay-based projection displays. 3M Precision Optics is engaged in the commercialization of next generation components and systems enabling high-performance, long-life and thin microdisplay projection televisions, as well as enabling high-performing, front-screen projectors. Current product offerings include Vikuiti projection components based on LCOS technology, as well as high-temperature, poly-silicon and DLP technology from Texas Instruments.

About 3M - A Global, Diversified Technology Company

Every day, 3M people find new ways to make amazing things happen. Wherever they are, whatever they do, the company's customers know they can rely on 3M to help make their lives better. 3M's brands include Scotch, Post-it, Scotchgard, Thinsulate, Scotch-Brite, Filtrete, Command and Vikuiti. Serving customers in more than 200 countries around the world, the people of 3M use their expertise, technologies and global strength to lead in major markets including consumer and office; display and graphics; electronics and telecommunications; safety, security and protection services; health care; industrial and transportation. For more information, including the latest product and technology news, visit www.3M.com.

Scotch, Post-it, Scotchgard, Thinsulate, Scotch-Brite, Filtrete, Command and Vikuiti are trademarks of 3M.

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