A family with 15 children and a washing pile of up to 42 loads per week has been chosen to be the QLD candidates in a Panasonic campaign to find Australian families with the toughest washing loads.

The Bonell family of Toowoomba, mother Jeni and father Ray, with their fifteen children between the ages of 11 months and 22 years, is one of four families selected to put the new Panasonic 10kg ECONAVI washing machine through its paces.

While most of us don’t have the washing needs of a house blessed with 15 children, it seems many Australians underestimate their laundry load. The national average weekly volume is around 32kg capacity* or about four loads in an 8kg machine – the Bonell family is doing around ten times this.

“It’s interesting how much washing the average Australian family actually does – even an extra two loads a week can mean up to four extra hours spent doing washing. This is where an extra 2 kilo capacity in each load can really make a big difference,’ said Prue O’Loan, Product Marketing Manager – Whitegoods and Small Appliances, Panasonic Australia.

The new ECONAVI 10kg Panasonic washing machine has an extra-large capacity drum in a compact body and automatically senses the size of the load, so is great for energy-conscious families with big laundry loads, but standard sized laundry spaces.

The machine also features ‘Stain Master’ technology, which intelligently removes 23 of the most common stains. It does this by automatically selecting the optimum temperature, rotation power and soaking required.

“At the moment I spend a lot of time washing. We will easily go through 11 uniforms a day, and with most of our nine boys getting into outdoor sports like touch football, the load just seems to get bigger and bigger. We would probably go through up to 120 or more socks a week – just imagine trying to match them all up afterwards! I spend at least a few hours doing the washing every night, and at the moment I’m doing close to 2,200 loads of washing a year – I’d hate to think how much time I spend dealing with that,” said mother, Jeni Bonell.

“Because we have such a diverse range of washing to do, everything from heavy duty work wear to soft delicate baby clothes, it should be a huge advantage to be able to customise the program settings. With the volume of washing we do it’s also really important that we are as economical and environmentally-friendly as possible, so automatic load-sensing technology should make a big difference for us too,” Jeni continued.

Panasonic has been extremely committed in developing ways to meet Australia’s unique washing needs, from increased load sizes and environmental performance to functions to assist with the removal of new types of stains.

Keep an eye on Panasonic Australia’s Facebook page here for news on the remaining three families to put our ECONAVI 10kg Washing Machines to the test.

* Based on data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics on domestic water usage: http://www.ausstats.abs.gov.au/ausstats/subscriber.nsf/0/9C38CC8D4DB7AB31CA256D0500048A4D/$File/46161_oct%202002.pdf

Purchase a Full-HD Panasonic camcorder for your one-in-five chance to win a VIERA TV.

By purchasing a Panasonic 3MOS HC-X900M camcorder or a HC-V700 or HC-V500M 1MOS camcorder, you could instantly win a 32-inch VIERA Full High Definition LED LCD TV valued at $799. What’s more, there are 100 TVs to be won.

“Image quality is top of mind when Australian consumers buy a camcorder,” said Doug Campbell, Product Marketing Manager Camcorder, Panasonic Australia.

He continued, “Now they get the chance to make their high-definition purchase even more enjoyable. Shoot FHD footage on your camcorder, and then put your SD card directly into the VIERA TV’s SD card slot to share these great memories with friends and family.”

The promotion commenced on May 1, 2012 and closes on July 31, 2012 or once 100 prizes have been awarded.

To enter, simply visit the Panasonic website here, follow the prompts to the competition entry page, and input the requested details. One in every five online entries will be awarded a VIERA TV, up to the total of 100 prizes.

Panasonic’s range of 3MOS and 1MOS camcorders offers a solution for every consumer. The HC-X900M Full HD camcorder features Panasonic’s 3MOS System Pro next-generation imaging system and is designed for the enthusiast videographer who wants to capture truly stunning images in full HD.

Panasonic’s Full HD 1MOS camcorders, the HC-V700 and HC-V500M, record exceptionally high-quality footage in a variety of shooting situations, backed by the company’s powerful new Hybrid OIS+ optical image stabilisation system, and are perfect for capturing smooth, fast-moving action.

For more information on camcorders, go here. And for more information and full terms and conditions regarding the promotion, go here.

Claim up to $200 off energy bills this winter with a select Panasonic Air Conditioner.

Panasonic are helping keep you warm this winter by allowing you to claim up to $200 off your power bill with the purchase of selected Panasonic Air Conditioners.

The promotion commenced on May 1, 2012 and finishes on August 31, 2012, or when 17,000 claims are received. To participate, you must provide energy account details and ensure claims are received via mail within 21 calendar days of purchase. The offer covers all energy providers.

“Panasonic is helping consumers this winter by reducing their power bill and offering an incentive to stay warm over the colder months,” said Shane Quinn, Product Marketing Manager, Air Conditioning, Panasonic Australia.

The current range of Panasonic Air Conditioners feature the innovative ECONAVI sensor, which uses smart technology, such as area search, absence detection and low activity detection to moderate the temperature according to room usage, and deliver up to a 30 per cent energy saving while cooling and up to 40 per cent while heating.

In addition to ECONAVI, Panasonic’s Inverter system makes constant adjustments to provide optimum performance at all times. This extremely precise operation enables quick cooling when needed, while reducing power consumption compared to conventional non-Inverter units.

For more information, promotional terms and conditions, or to make a claim, contact Panasonic on 1300 769 710 or visit www.panasonic.com.au/bonus

Panasonic Blu-ray Disc Player Delivers Smart Home Networking and Smart Operation

New range offers superior image quality and stylish design with expanded VIERA Connect^TM, Smartphone Remote, improved processor and built-in Wi-Fi.

Best of Innovations

The Panasonic DMP-BDT320 Blu-ray Disc Player was recently named the Best of Innovations winner at the US CES Innovations Design and Engineering Awards – packed with smart technologies to reproduce stunning 3D images and high-quality sound as well as offering exceptional connectivity features.

Key features

• VIERA Connect with Skype functions (DMP-BBT01, DMP-BDT320 and DMP-BDT220)

VIERA Connect, Panasonic’s home AV online platform upgraded from the previous VIERA Cast^TM, not only offers users greater convenience, but also enhanced enjoyment. From sports and video-on-demand movies, to gaming and communication, online content has been further expanded and improved. The platform easily connects to popular social networking sites You Tube, Facebook, Twitter and Skype[2] as well as Yahoo!7’s PLUS7 and ABC iView for an even wider variety of Internet content from the comfort of your living room.

• DLNA®

Using DLNA technology, Panasonic Blu-ray Disc Players can access content held on DLNA Server Blu-ray Disc Recorders, DVD Recorders with HD Recording, or compliant devices, making it easier to share and enjoy digital photos, music, and videos with home networking.  By simply connecting to the Home Network (LAN), the user can enjoy accessing recorded programs, AVCHD video and JPEG files as well as access, browse and view media stored on a server while in another room without having to worry about shuffling discs.

• Smartphone Remote Control (DMP-BBT01, DMP-BDT320 and DMP-BDT220)

For simple, intuitive operation, the Blu-ray Disc players are compatible with Smartphone Remote Control[3]. This enables users to easily operate the Blu-ray Disc player by tapping and swiping on a Smartphone. Users can easily input characters with the key pad on their Smartphone and search for additional entertainment and movie information.

• Internal Wireless LAN System (DMP-BBT01, DMP-BDT320, DMP-BDT220)

A Wi-Fi system[4] is built into the DMP-BBT01, DMP-BDT320 and DMP-BDT220, so the user can enjoy VIERA Connect and BD-Live™[5] content without having to connect the player with a LAN cable or wireless LAN adapter. The DMP-BD77 is wireless compatible.

• Innovative design

The DMP-BBT01 and DMP-BDT320 boast a unique, ultra-slim and super-compact design suited to a variety of room interiors, while the DMP-BBT01 introduces a new design concept – the player comes with a stand and can be operated either vertically, or horizontally. Both the DMP-BBT01 and DMP-BDT320 are also equipped with a slot-in drive to provide smooth disc insertion and prevent the user from inadvertently loading a second disc.

To personalise the experience, the new multi-user mode allows four users to be registered and each can record individual settings. Users can customise their own home screen with their favourite wallpaper from 16 pre-installed icon images, or they can select photos from a disc, SD Card or USB.

• SD Card Slot (DMP-BDT320, DMP-BDT220)

The SD Card slot lets users view content captured on cameras or camcorders. The DMP-BBT01 and DMP-BD77 are compatible with USB flash drives (1GB or more of free space/sold separately).

• Superior Sound and Image Quality

The DMP-BBT01, DMP-BDT220 and the DMP-BDT320 Blu-ray Players feature an improved UniPhier single chip signal processing LSI featuring a simplified circuit architecture that eliminates unnecessary wiring, resulting in reduced noise on the picture and sound signal. The UniPhier chip produces high clarity sound and turns off the analogue video circuit when it is not needed, eliminating interference to the other circuits.

• Energy efficient technology

The DMP-BDT320 is equipped with a Smart Eco Sensor to minimise power consumption. It automatically switches to Quick Start mode (boot time approximately 0.5 seconds) when it detects the user’s movement. When the user finishes watching and leaves the room, it automatically switches to standby mode to reduce power usage to just 0.1W.

Compare model features

DMP-BDT320, DMP-BDT220, DMP-BD77 (Available April)

DMP-BBT01 (Available July)

[3] Requires the device with the app installed and the home theatre to be connected to the same home network.

[4] A wireless LAN environment is required.

[5] To enjoy the content, you will need to insert an SD card in DMP-BDT320, DMP-BDT220 or USB flash drive in BBT01 and BD77(1GB or more of free space/sold separately)

• The, YouTube™, Facebook names and logos are trademarks of their respective owners in the United States and other countries.
• The Skype name, associated trademarks and logos and the “S” symbol are trademarks of Skype Limited.
• Attention: it is not possible to make emergency calls with Skype™.

Panasonic launches smartest ever Compact Stereo, Home Theatre and Micro Speaker Systems

Delivering impressive sound quality, internet radio control and wireless streaming capabilities.

Compact Stereo Systems

The SC-HC57DB, SC-HC37DB and SC-HC27 combine state-of-the-art sound technology, and smart networking capabilities with a sleek, modern design. These sophisticated Compact Stereo Systems are perfect for any modern Australian home.

The SC-HC57DB features AirPlay® technology,[1] which allows users to wirelessly stream music from an iPad, iPhone, iPod touch or MAC/PC directly through a wireless LAN network, at the touch of a button[2]. AirPlay® provides a multi-room listening function, allowing up to six compatible units to simultaneously receive music from an iTunes library stored on a MAC/PC.

Enjoy hundreds of stations
Music lovers can enjoy the hundreds of stations offered by Internet radio using the SC-HC57DB or SC-HC37DB. By simply installing the vTuner[3] application onto their iPhone or iPod they will be able to search for stations and play music from a variety of sources including iPod/iPhone, CD-R/RW and FM radio.

iPhone or iPod touch as a remote control
An iPhone or iPod touch can also be used as a remote control for the SC-HC57DB with the Panasonic Stereo Remote Control App, available for download from the iTunes App Store now. A touch of the device screen provides one-step control of surround effect, volume and even gives users the ability to open and close the stereo system door.

The new HC Series models offer unique audio technologies such as Pure Direct Sound System, Direct-Vocal Surround and Nano-sized Bamboo Cone Speakers which allows users to enjoy a crystal clear listening experience.

With sleek, ultra slim designs, the new Compact Stereos can be set up in places where conventional stereo systems would not fit. The SC-HC57DB and SC-HC37DB can also be placed on a wall with the included wall mount bracket. All new models also feature low power consumption and are Energy Star certified.

The SC-HC57DB and SC-HC27 are both available in black and the SC-HC37DB is available in silver.

Specifications

SC-HC57DB (Available April 2012)

SC-HC27 (Available April 2012)

SC-HC37DB (Available April 2012)

Home Theatre Soundbar System

The SC-HTB550 Soundbar System features VIERA Link™ so VIERA Link compatible AV products can be operated with one remote.

The Wireless Music Streaming with Bluetooth® function allows users to listen to their favourite music from Bluetooth-compatible devices without having to plug the device into a docking station or connect it to the sound system.[4]

The SC-HTB550 is also equipped with a wireless subwoofer so it can be freely placed anywhere in a room without clutter.

Anti-Jitter Digital Amplifier
The SC-HTB550 has high-quality sound thanks to an Anti-Jitter Digital Amplifier, which works by eliminating distortion, and clearly directs sound to produce pure, brilliant audio. With Clear-mode Dialogue, this Home Theatre System delivers audio that is crisp and clear, with precise linking of picture and sound from your TV screen. Auto Gain Control provides a smooth, automatic adjustment of volume between a movie or television show and commercials, reducing sudden volume changes.

Specifications

SC-HTB550 (Available April 2012)

Micro Systems

Complementing the expanded HC Series are two new Micro Systems, the SC-AP01 and the SC-PMX5DB model which offers excellent sound quality in its class as well as DAB+ (Digital Radio).

The SC-AP01 is dedicated to wireless audio with AirPlay® – allowing users to stream music from an iPad, iPhone/iPod touch or PC/MAC from anywhere in the home via a wireless LAN network, resulting in lossless transmission for high-quality audio playback.  A user’s iPhone, iPad or iPod touch also works as the SC-AP01’s remote control, for seamless music change from across the room[5]. In addition, the system includes a USB port to give Apple devices a quick charge.

The SC-AP01 is a wireless metal bar system crafted with high-quality metal net that offers clear and dynamic sound in a slim and stylish design. Featuring Nano-sized bamboo cone speakers to create audio with clearer vocals and crisper dialogue, the SC-AP01 also utilises Aero Stream Port to create rich and robust bass by controlling distortion and Direct-Vocal Surround to expand sound throughout a listening environment to mimic a concert hall.

High-quality sound
The SC-PMX5DB features a host of enhanced audio technologies including Full Digital Amp System, Anti-Distortion Structure Speaker Cones and an Anti-Jitter Digital Amplifier for high-quality, rich sound with minimal distortion on playback. It is equipped with a wireless subwoofer which means it can be neatly positioned anywhere in the home.

Integrated universal dock for iPod/iPhone
The SC-PMX5DB also has an integrated universal dock for iPod/iPhone plus an integrated USB connection for greater playback choice in the home. The Digital Music connection feature for iPod/iPhone means less data is lost through device conversion and transmission, resulting in higher quality sound.

Specifications

SC-AP01 (Available June 2012)

SC-PMX5 (Available April 2012)

Smart mobile applications for Panasonic’s 2012 Home AV range

[2] AirPlay, the AirPlay logo, iPad, iPhone, iPod, iPod classic, iPod nano, and iPod touch are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.  Made for iPod” and “Made for iPhone” mean that an electronic accessory has been designed to connect specifically to iPod, or iPhone, respectively, and has been certified by the developer to meet Apple performance standards. Apple is not responsible for the operation of this device or its compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Please note that the use of this accessory with iPod, or iPhone may affect wireless performance.

[3] vTuner for Panasonic app must be purchased from iTunes.

[4] The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Panasonic Corporation is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.

[5] Users must download the free Remote Control App from Apple iTunes store.