New to the spring convention this year are the NAB Technology Innovation Awards. These will "recognize organizations that bring exhibits and demonstrations of significant merit to the NAB Show, presenting advanced research and development projects in communications technologies."

The Technology Luncheon will be the venue for the first presentation.

This year's recipients are both from Japan: the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT) and the NHK Science and Technical Research Laboratories.

NICT is noted for research into 3D, holographics and other advanced display technologies. NHK, associated with the large Japanese broadcaster, is being cited for its work in Ultra HDTV. Its Ultra HDTV theater on the show floor has proven to be a popular destination during the this show and last year's show.

Also at the Technology Luncheon will be the presentation of this year's NAB Engineering Achievement Awards. This year's recipients are Jack Sellmeyer, a long-time radio engineer and equipment designer, and Sterling Davis, vice president of engineering for Cox Broadcasting.