This week at the NAB trade show, Panasonic announced their new PT-DZ21K series projectors. The series includes two 20,000 lumen units – the WUXGA resolution PT-DZ21KU and the SXGA+ resolution PT-DS20KU, along with the 16,500 lumen PT-DW17KU projector which is WXGA resolution.

The PT-DZ21KU and PT-DS20KU are 3D ready and can utilize an active shutter system which can be equipped with an external emitter via the timing signal IN/OUT terminal. For passive, polarized 3D projection these units support frame-sequential, side by side and top and bottom formats. These projectors are also equipped with DICOM simulation mode for use in medical and teaching environments where the ability to view X-ray images is needed. Both the PT-DZ21KU and PT-DS20KU are able to project onto various curved screens via the Geometric Adjustment Feature.

All three units boast a compact footprint, 2,000 hour lamp replacement cycle, a liquid cooling system which keeps the noise level low, a maintenance-free EcoFilter with a lifespan of 12,000 hours and low power consumption. Additional feature include Lens Memory, Edge Blending, 360-degree installation capability and Multi-Unit Brightness control.

Optional lens choices are available to support a wide range of throw distances. The PT-DZ21K series can handle more than 100 input signals including SDIx2, HDMI, DVI-D, and LAN(RJ45). The projectors can be remotely controlled and operated using Panasonic’s Multi-Projector Monitoring and Control software. The web browser feature enables users to view and send e-mail alerts from the projector.

The DZ21KU will begin shipping in May and the PT-DS20KU and the PT-DW17KU will begin shipping in June. Pricing has not yet been announced.

Recent projector market research from Pacific Media Associates shows that sales of high-end, large venue projectors are outpacing the mainstream projector market in terms of growth. We’ll be waiting to see how these feature paced, compact units do.