Asustek introduces 42-inch LCD TV

The Taiwanese technology company, already the world's largest maker of computer motherboards and a contract manufacturer of gadgets, including notebook computers and game consoles, introduced a 42-inch LCD TV, the TLW42001, to complement the 32-inch one, the TLW32001 already on the market in Taiwan priced at NT$89,900 (US$2,726).

Asustek's timing couldn't be better. Shipments of large-size LCD TV panels are expected to take off in the third quarter amid growing demand, according to iSuppli, followed by even stronger sales in the pivotal final three months of the year. LCD panels are the main component in LCD TVs, and panel demand gives analysts an idea of expectations for LCD TV demand.

Demand for large LCD TV panels is expected to grow by 9 percent in the third quarter over the second quarter, iSuppli said, and another 11 percent in the fourth quarter over the third quarter. The fourth quarter is normally the strongest of the year for many IT goods due to sales ahead of the Christmas holiday season.

The strong growth is expected to come after a weak second quarter, normally the slowest time of year for IT sales, when LCD TV panel shipments grew only 2.7 percent. Isuppli said it expects a tight supply to lead to higher prices.

Asustek has started selling a number of new products in recent years under the Asus brand name, part of a strategy by Taiwanese companies to expand their brand awareness and break away from relying exclusively on contract manufacturing.