PARK RIDGE, N.J., Nov. 26, 2007 – Sony is expanding its line of video projection systems for commercial applications with two new LCD models for larger-venues.
The new VPL-FW300L (7,000 lumens) and the VPL-FH300L (6,000 lumens) projector models are designed to deliver outstanding images while in the same room as the audience. This makes them ideal for smaller auditoriums, large classrooms and meeting rooms, museum exhibits, event centers, ballrooms and movie theaters for displaying pre-show content.
“There’s no ‘one size fits all’ option for large-venue projection needs,” said John Kaloukian, director of Sony Electronics’ professional display group. “For example, museums are featuring more full HD content in their exhibits and need HD capable projectors that show this footage quietly and effectively.
“Conversely, more movie theaters are incorporating pre-show content, including local advertisements and regional promotions, and they’re turning to LCD projectors that offer the necessary brightness, color accuracy and widescreen capabilities to fill a multiplex screen.”
Kaloukian added that although these new projectors use 3LCD technology, they are a perfect complement to Sony’s 4K large-venue projection systems, and fill an important niche in between current business projectors and the 4K large-venue systems.
The VPL-FW300L projector has a WXGA+ resolution of 1366 x 800, while the VPL-FH300L unit delivers resolution of 2048 x 1080. Both models are housed in the same chassis, and share the same type of lenses, lamps, and filters as well as the same connections and network functions.
The projectors feature Sony’s BrightEra™ imaging technology, which is based on an inorganic substrate and alignment layer to produce a stronger bonding of molecules. This makes the panel more resistant to damage from UV energy while allowing for an increased aperture ratio. As a result, Kaloukian said the brightness, resolution and panel reliability are all increased.
The projectors’ innovative round design also includes large-diameter fans and high-flow cooling air ductwork that lets the projector run cool while fan noise is decreased. These characteristics are the key reasons that these models can be effectively placed in the room with the audience without distracting from the event.
Users have a choice of five different standard lenses for excellent placement flexibility, and both models have a locking bayonet mount mechanism for easy lens changes.
Both models use dual 275W lamps to essentially eliminate the risk of a blackout in the event of lamp failure. Their opposing design configuration allows for projector tilting for mirror or other uses. The lamps have an expected life of 1500 (high) or 2500 (standard) hours. This use of low wattage lamps saves energy and running costs, which in turn helps the projector run cooler and quieter when compared with other offerings.
Different lamp modes are available: both lamps can be used simultaneously or only one at a time can be active, and in “auto lamp” mode, the projector automatically selects the lamp that has the fewest usage hours.
A design enhancement over previous models places the memory for the lamp timer on the lamp itself, reducing the need to manually reset lamp timers. Also, lamps that are moved will retain accurate time readings.
The projectors’ control panels are located on the sides for easy installation and maintenance. Cable management is simpler, with routing channels carrying cabling to the mounting point. Both projectors are also compatible with cable-hiding mounting systems.
The VPL-FW300L and the VPL-FH300L projectors are planned to be available in January, at suggested list prices of $27,000 and $40,000, respectively.
