Nvidia Corp. has introduced a new version of its stereoscopic 3D (S3D) technology which improves image quality of S3D visuals. The 3D Vision 2 technology sports new larger active-shutter glasses as well as requires next-generation S3D monitors that support Nvidia 3D LightBoost capability.

Nvidia 3D Vision 2 glasses provide deeper immersion in games through lenses that are 20% larger than those in first-generation glasses, resulting in a wider viewing area and increased external light blocking. In addition, Nvidia 3D Vision 2 glasses are made of soft composite materials for a more comfortable fit with gaming headphones. The new glasses utilize advanced active-shutter and IR wireless technologies.

Nvidia 3D Vision 2 glasses are fully backwards-compatible with all existing Nvidia 3D Vision Ready content and supporting products, including more than 70 different 3D Vision monitors, notebooks and projectors, video applications, and cameras.

The Nvidia 3D Vision 2 glasses kit, which includes one pair of 3D Vision 2 glasses and a wireless USB IR emitter, will be available worldwide in October for $149. Extra Nvidia 3D Vision 2 glasses are available for $99

Nvidia 3D LightBoost is a new display technology that delivers up to two times brighter 3D images than existing 3D solutions and improved color quality. It also increases environmental lighting, making gaming keyboards and mice more visible, and reducing 3D ghosting.

The first Nvidia 3D LightBoost-certified desktop display is the Asus VG278H, a 27" LED full HD (1920x1080) monitor with 120Hz refresh rates and 2ms response times, featuring a 3D HDMI 1.4 input, as well as a dual-link DVI input for full HD 1080p 3D gaming. Expected to be available by the end of October 2011, the Asustek VG278H includes Nvidia 3D Vision 2 glasses and is priced at $699.

Additional Nvidia 3D LightBoost-compatible displays from Acer and BenQ are expected to ship in the coming months. Nvidia 3D LightBoost compatible notebooks include several Toshiba models - Satellite P770/P775, Dynabook Satellite T572, Dynabook T572, and the Qosmio X770/X775 - with others expected in the coming months.

Tags: Nvidia, Geforce, 3D Vision, ASUS, Stereo 3D