NEC has launched what it claims it the ‘world’s first’ modular laser cinema projector at CinemaCon in Las Vegas.
The NEC NC2402ML projector uses a modular approach, designed to enable cinema venues to plug-in the appropriate light module based on the required brightness they need. According to NEC, this functionality is crucial for adapting projectors according to screen sizes, ensuring that each projector can be deployed in any auditorium.
The new product bundles the NEC NP-02HD projector head with the modular 24,000lm light module out of three swappable light modules (24,000lm, 20,000lm and 18,000lm). It uses RB laser technology to “provide crisp, almost speckle-free imagery, combining all the benefits of RGB laser technology with a lower capex and opex cost”.
“The new NC2402ML is engineered to bring down costs while delivering outstanding performance and unbeatable versatility,” said Gerd Kaiser, senior product line manager, large venue and digital cinema projection, NEC Display Solutions Europe.
“The new projector can be used anywhere, and easily adapted for different screen sizes, brightness requirements and applications. This means that venues can expand their audience beyond cinema – for example, by enabling them to screen alternative content for corporate presentations, gaming events and more. Meanwhile, they can also take advantage of new financing options that enable venues to lease light engines and only pay for the light they use.”
According to NEC, the new projector needs “virtually zero maintenance” due to a lack of lamp and filter replacement costs, as well as no maintenance personnel costs and no lamp stock due to the innovative Laser Light engine. It also offers up to 30,000 hours life, a sealed optical engine for dust minimisation and consistent performance, as well as an optional built-in 2TB screen server, 2x3G SDI interfaces, HDMI and GPIO functions with NAS support.
The NC2402ML will be available with brightness module 24,000lm from August 2019. The 20,000lm and 18,000lm light modules will follow soon.