Sharp presented its new line-up of 3D-compliant projectors for the first time at the "Paperworld 2010". With built-in DLP-link technology (TI) and interface to a 3D shutter glass system, these models provide consummate 3D film viewing pleasure. The use of BrilliantColor technology (TI) guarantees detailed high-resolution picture quality that can also be adjusted to personal requirements. The bright new design of the projectors will look perfectly in place in both home and office.

“In the past, 3D film projection has required two interconnected projectors that beam out the data streams for the left and right eyes separately,” explains Peter Heins, Product Manager for Professional Monitors and Projectors at Sharp Electronics Europe. “Our new 3D ready DLP projectors combine the two data streams into a single output signal and project the separate fields alternately in rapid sequence. As a result, in combination with a 3D shutter glass system, breathtaking stereoscopic images are obtained with a single device.”

A key precondition for this system is the 120-Hz technology used by Sharp projectors. In combination with the shutter glasses, which consist of two liquid crystal displays that are synchronized with the output signal to switch over between transparent image transmission and occluding (darkening), the individual fields are displayed alternately in rapid sequence at a frequency of 60 Hz for each eye. In this way, the left eye always sees only the left view (field), and the right eye sees only the right field. The brain of the viewer automatically integrates these separate views, so that they are perceived as a single true-to-life three-dimensional image.

Another condition for razor-sharp 3D images is the DLP-link technology from Texas Instruments. The viewer receives accurate and vividly coloured images generated by the DLP chip with the aid of millions of microscopically small mirrors. This chip acts as both light reflector and modulator and produces a lifelike 3D effect.

“The light output power of our projectors should also be emphasized,” comments Peter Heins. “With brightness values of up to 4500 ANSI lumen and a static contrast of 2500:1, the three-dimensional images are clearly visible even in strong ambient light.” The 3D ready DLP projectors have an XGA resolution of 1024 x 768 pixels and also operate in 2D mode.

The colour rendition of the new 3D ready DLP projectors also leaves nothing to be desired. With BrilliantColor technology from Texas Instruments, the beamers have an innovative colour wheel that uses six colours (RGBWCY) instead of the usual three. This system ensures even more clearly differentiated colour rendition, so that individual hues can be reproduced in extremely accurate detail. The three additional colours also provide the projectors with extended control facilities for adjusting the exact hue and brightness of the secondary colours.

The five 3D ready 1-chip DLP projectors are specially designed for presentations in schools, meeting rooms or confined spaces such as a home cinema. With their 3D capabilities, these systems are also ideal for scientific visualizations and the display of mathematical models or design studies.

Sharp will be introducing its new suite of 3D capable projectors to the shops by March 2010. Prices will be only marginally higher than for comparable 2D capable XGA projectors.