At InfoComm 2016,Panasonic launched a trio of compact single-chip DLP laser phosphor projectors. Aimed at exhibition, staging, signage, control room, education and meeting room applications, the projectors are the PT-RZ970 series (pictured – three models up to 10,400 centre lumens), the PT-RZ770 series (two models up to 7,200 lumens) and the PT-RZ660 series (two models up to 6,200 lumens).
The PT-RZ970 Series, which offer a 10,000:1 contrast ratio, are filter-less projectors that are essentially dust-proof, and have been subjected to “punishing tests” from Panasonic to ensure flawless performance.
Also launched at the show was the PT-RQ32KU 3-chip DLP laser projector, with 27,000 (centre) lumens and above 4K resolution (5120 x 3200).
Shipping this summer, the compact new Christie AP Series of 3LCD projectors deliver 5,000 ANSI lumens. The LW502 (5,000:1 contrast) and Christie LWU502 (10,000:1) offer HDBaseT single-cable connectivity, up to 6,000 hours’ lamp life and integrated audio. Also featured are edge blending, warping, DICOM simulation and an optional wireless LAN adapter for showing presentations from a remote computer. The projectors are aimed at installations in classrooms and meeting spaces.
Christie also previewed Christie Mystique, a suite of tools, including software, hardware and services, to support the design, installation, and operation of projection-based experiences in theme parks, sport stadiums and arenas.
Sony’sVPL-GTZ270 4K laser projector is particularly aimed at entertainment use including planetariums, theme parks, museums and retail. The 5,000-lumen model features image enhancement functions including Reality Creation upscaling and compatibility with HDR content. Its wide colour space covers the full DCI range and simulates the new ITU-R BT2020 colour gamut. It can also operate in 4K 3D mode.
Also on the stand was the VPL-GTZ280, a 4K projector with options for higher brightness up to 5000 lumens, targeted at simulation and training applications. It features high-speed 4K 120Hz signal processing capability for 4K stereoscopic 3D at 60Hz, and for reducing blur in fast motion scenes.
Highlights on the Vivitek stand included the DU7090Z, a 6,000 ANSI lumen WUXGA laser projector that is said to be among the quietest laser projectors in its category, with 33dB fan noise. It is designed for auditoriums, conference rooms, worship facilities and museums. It is DICOM compatible for use in medical teaching and conferences and is rated for intensive use environments.
Also on show was the ultra-short throw DH759USTi, a 1080p plug-and-play interactive projector for education and business applications. It offers pen interactivity with optional interactive 10-point touch on a screen size up to 110in diagonal. It features bright 3,500 ANSI lumens brightness and a 10,000:1 contrast ratio.
Epson demonstrated bundled solutions for its BrightLink Pro Series of corporate projectors, designed to simplify the way people work together and collaborate. The BrightLink Pro All-in-One Interactive Display includes an 87in or 100in Da-Lite IDEA screen with 2.5 gain. Using a digital pen or finger touch, users can to work on the display in real time, locally or remotely from multiple devices.
The BrightLink Pro All-in-One Interactive Table comes with a motorised surface. Users can project onto the sleek desktop table, and use the digital pen or finger touch capabilities to work the projected document.
Ricoh has produced 13 new projector models since InfoComm 2015, featuring LED and laser light sources, and covering home theatre and large installation applications. Among these, the high-performance KU12000 features WUXGA (1920×1200) resolution, HDMI and HDBaseT, and its 12,000 lumen brightness shines through excess ambient light. The PJ XL4540 (XGA) and WXL4540 (WXGA) laser short-throw projectors bring up to 3,200 lumens of brightness to classroom, presentation and digital signage applications, producing a crisp, vivid image from a short distance.
Tempest was showing its modular G4 range of projector enclosures, which comprising five product families that promise to tackle any environment, from harsh outdoor environments to whisper quiet indoor spaces.
Blizzard G4 outdoor enclosures are now fully stackable and now come in three sizes capable of housing projectors up to 15,000 lumens. Whispr, also in three sizes, is said to provide unparalleled noise attenuation, making it suitable quiet indoor environments, such as educational spaces. Tacit builds on Whispr, offering projector-specific models from 20,000-45,000 lumens.
Typhoon G4 is a rental and staging projector enclosure, with models for most popular rental projectors. Finally, Cyclone G4 outdoor enclosures are also projector-specific, with models available for all business and cinema projectors up to 45,000 lumens.
The upgraded G4 models feature variable speed AC fan control, USB diagnostics and firmware update capabilities, and optional RS485 and Ethernet connectivity. Web-based remote monitoring is coming soon.
