The TCO (total cost of ownership) arguments for using solid-state video projectors (instead of conventional lamp-based projectors) for installed AV applications are compelling: because the new-generation projectors are “lamp-free, there are no lamp replacement costs over the life of that projector. And the market has spoken: the best, most popular, most robust lamp-free projectors today are laser-phosphor projectors— now commonly called “laser projectors.” But AV integrators and AV end users are learning that not all laser projectors are created equal. The best new-generation laser projectors do far more than just providing better TCO with a lamp-free design. Only by choosing a projector that’s based on the latest advances in engineering can you be sure that you’re future-proofing your AV installation for years to come, and not just getting another “me-too” laser projector. This white paper outlines the advanced features that separate the flood of me-too laser projectors from the technology and business case-leading projectors that are being spec’d in by the most demanding and ROI-conscious AV integrators and end users.
The reign of the video projector as the display tool of choice for the classroom, boardroom, meeting space—and indeed any installed AV space that requires a flexible imaging platform—has been a long one. Even after the introduction of flat-panel displays into the market, video projectors continue to deliver much greater brightness and higher resolution options, larger screen size options, more configuration options, greater flexibility, and many other advantages. But throughout their reign, projectors have continued to evolve—from the low-resolution, limited-light-output, maintenance-heavy units of yesterday to today’s high lumen lower TCO, more reliable, and better performing units. However, the sheer quantity of projection manufacturers and models available for the installed AV market has exploded over the years, leading to confusion and many ostensibly similar options.
Today, with the proliferation of laser projectors, an inexperienced AV integrator or end user may think, “the choice is now simple: lamp-based projectors mean too many lamps to buy down the road, LED projectors don’t have the lumens I need, nor do the ‘hybrid’ projectors … so I’ll just pick a laser [phosphor] projector, and we’re good to go.” Smart integrators and projection users know that costly mistakes lie down that road—namely, performance, TCO, quality, and reliability shortfalls in a few short months or years after the initial purchase. Those mistakes can consume both limited budgets and manpower. Smart integrators know that choosing the best laser projector is not just about the “lamp-free” TCO math. The best projectors for the classroom, boardroom, meeting room, and any installed AV application must have key new-generation features that deliver not just better TCO but superior image quality, state-of-the-art engineering, installation options, and networking performance. Those features include:
- A DLP-based laser-light engine that avoids the compromises and performance limitations of LCD-based laser projectors. The market has spoken: DLP is widely regarded as the superior display technology for image quality, longevity, and reliability. DLP projectors can reproduce deep blacks and a more accurate white balance than LCD projectors. And they can better support the higher color gamut needed for 4K and UHD, as well as for high-contrast HD.
- A dust-resistant airtight optical block design that prevents brightness degradation and ensures long maintenance-free and dependable operation (not just for the illumination system but for the entire projector).
- Highly efficient cooling systems, which ensure stable 24/7 operation. These include unique liquid-cooling and heat-pipe cooling systems that enable the DMD module(s) to keep images crisp and bright while reducing fan speed and lowering noise levels (and thereby minimizing distractions in quiet classrooms [and meeting rooms)
- Flexible installation options such as Panasonic’s DIGITAL LINK(HDBaseT) and built-in connectivity that supports the transmission of uncompressed full HD video and control commands through a single CAT5e or higher STP cable for distances up to 150 meters (492 ft.), allowing you to save on the cost of peripheral connectivity systems.
- Enhanced flexibility due to 360-degree, omnidirectional installation capabilities, software that expands image- adjustment functionality, and wide range of compatible lenses.
Why Choose Panasonic SOLID SHINE Laser with DLP™ Imaging?
When weighing role-specific requirements against the pros and cons of different technologies, the argument for a laser drive emerges as most persuasive. Clearly, a projector that can provide better image quality at lower overall cost with less downtime and easier operation is preferable to other alternatives.
However, not all laser projectors are created equal. The following analysis and evidence proves that Panasonic SOLID SHINE Laser with DLP™ imaging outperforms competitive brands on key metrics by virtue of superior design, resulting in less maintenance, lower TCO, excellent image quality, and best-in-class integration into existing audio-video infrastructure:
- Panasonic SOLID SHINE Laser projectors offer up to 20,000 hours of maintenance-free operation for the whole projector thanks to airtight dust-resistant optics and dual-drive phosphor-wheel technology on selected models.
- Phosphor wheels are a key part of the optical drive. Panasonic uses treated organic material to resist heat and assure reliability depending on light output. This technology is extremely durable.
- Panasonic backs up its claims about imaging performance with confidence, and that’s because customers agree that picture quality is, in real-life applications, sensational. Performance is achieved by taking a holistic, end-to-end approach to image reproduction from source to screen to achieve complete visual immersion in the classroom and lecture theater.
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