Sony Unveils New Digital Cinema System Technologies at ShoWest

http://www.digitalcinemainfo.com/sonyprofessional_04_01_09.php

April 1, 2009

New Theater Management System and Anamorphic Lens Deliver New Operational Benefits and Efficiencies for Exhibitors

Sony is unveiling new technologies designed to work with its 4K digital cinema projection systems at ShoWest here this week.

The new technologies include a Theater Management System, which can provide exhibitors with increased efficiency and automation in their operations, and a new anamorphic lens for higher brightness in 2D projection systems.

“Exhibitors moving to digital cinema are looking for all the necessary tools and options to be readily available and easy-to-use, in order to make their digital transition as smooth as possible,” said Gary Johns, vice president of Sony Electronics’ Digital Cinema Systems Division. “Their goal is to provide the highest-quality presentation for their customers, while simultaneously increasing their efficiency and eliminating operational mistakes.”

The new anamorphic lens, model LKRL-A001, will allow exhibitors to reach 14 foot-lamberts of brightness on screens up to 70 feet wide. Sony will work with studios and the digital cinema industry to gather input so that the new lens meets with necessary technical requirements and standards for digital cinema projection.

The new Theater Management System includes a direct interface to the Sony Screen Management System that controls all the 4K projectors in one location. Through one user-friendly graphical interface, operators can: import schedule data directly from their ticketing and/or point-of-sale system; create schedules using a show template; monitor the status of screens, projectors and other equipment; and also transfer schedule data and DCP/KDM automatically.

Up to 32 screens can be supported by the SMPTE/DCI compliant Theater Management System (DCI Specification Version 1.2) and the system is compatible with a range of media formats, including: JPEG-Interop, and SMPTE formats.

The Sony Theater Management System is expected to be available in June, and the lens is planned to be available in July.