Canon U.S.A. has introduced two new 4K Laser LCOS Projectors: the REALiS 4K6020Z and 4K5020Z. These projectors utilize a laser-light source, which  can achieve up to 20,000 hours of operation in typical use and up to 40,000 hours in Long Duration Mode. Canon touts these models as the smallest and lightest projectors in their class – measuring 18.8″ x  7.1″ x  21.4″  and weighing only 41.8 pounds. The 4K6020Z and 4K5020Z Native 4K Laser LCOS Projectors are geared towards a variety of high-end applications such as broadcast, art galleries, museums, universities and medical institutions. They are also ideally suited for product design and simulation uses, where high-quality imaging and accurate color reproduction are needed.

The REALiS 4K6020Z and 4K5020Z deliver 6,000 and 5,000 lumens, respectively and feature LCOS panels and Canon’s proprietary AISYS optical system. This technology, in conjunction with true Native 4K (4096×2160) resolution, helps both projectors to produce a cleaner and more robust image with virtually no grid lines. The laser-light source allows the projectors to start up in as little as two seconds while in Fast Boot mode. In addition, users are able to create presets to be set up to their specific preferences and needs. They feature HDR technology which increases the dynamic range ability, expanding not only the color gamut range but also the overall brightness. Additionally, the projectors support HDR10 and Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG), which produce broadcast-quality HDR images. HLG is becoming widely popular in broadcast industry use.

Canon has also introduced a new optional lens. The RS-SL07RST projector lens is the seventh in the lens lineup which features Canon’s trademark red line around the barrel of the lens, signifying the highest level of Canon optical engineering and quality. The 4K6020Z and 4K5020Z projectors are compatible with all seven Canon interchangeable lenses for a wide variety of applications. Their high dynamic contrast of up to 22,000:1 in the 4K6020Z and 20,000:1 in the 4K5020Z is achieved by the combination of an image engine that analyzes the contrast of each frame and a double-door type shutter system which allows the iris to operate rapidly, to reduce light leaks. They cover 99.9 percent of the sRGB color space and support a range of connectivity options, including HDMI, HDBaseT, Wi-Fi, and more. They are also compatible with Canon Service Tool for PJ App. Six preset Image modes provide different variations of color reproduction characteristic suitable for the type and projection environment, includes DICOM Simulation mode and an additional five customizable preset modes.

The Canon 4K6020Z and 4K5020Z Native 4K Laser projectors and RL-SL07RST Standard Zoom Lens are all scheduled to be available by year end with MSRP’s of $45,799.00, $43,499.00 and $8,000.00, respectively.

Display market analyst firm PMA Research offers syndicated research on the projector market. While unit volume sales of high-end projectors are relatively small, there is an increasing trend towards 4K laser projectors and these models represent significant revenue opportunities for projector manufacturers.