Sony Unveils Next Generation of its 4K Digital Cinema Technology

http://www.2-pop.com/DigitalCinematography/article/88802

 

October 28, 2009

 

New SRX-R320 projection system, LMT-300 Media Block and Theater Management System gives exhibitors flexibility. 

 

Sony is unveiling a new 4K digital cinema projection system that builds on its proven technology in use by exhibitors today while offering new enhancements in performance and functionality.

 

Sony’s newest system features the SRX-R320 4K SXRD projector and LMT-300 Media Block. It incorporates similar features and design elements of its predecessor – the widely implemented SRX-R220 system. However, the new system measures approximately half the size and weight to give exhibitors more installation options.

 

“Since we introduced our first 4K projection system 5 years ago, Sony has advanced the technology to meet the continually evolving requirements for digital exhibition,” said Gary Johns, vice president of Sony Electronics’ Digital Cinema Systems Division. “This newest version continues that tradition and illustrates why exhibitors of all sizes are making Sony 4K technology their projection choice. With extremely high resolution, outstanding security, and operational versatility, this new system is ideal for creating an immersive digital cinema experience – in 2D or 3D – on any screen.”

 

The new system incorporates the ultra-high 4096 x 2160 resolution of its successful SXRD counterparts and delivers a high contrast ratio of more than 2000:1, ideal for applications in which dynamic range is essential. It is designed to be compatible with the same lamps and lenses used for the R220 model.

 

The system is FIPS 140-2 compliant and its secure enclosure design allows the LMT-300 server to be seamlessly integrated into the projector’s chassis, providing a high level of security that meets the SPB-2 anti-tamper regulations stipulated by the Digital Cinema Initiatives (DCI). The projector also produces superb images that are compliant to DCI requirements for image parameters such as color fidelity, white point and contrast.

 

A choice of six optional automated zoom/focus lenses and selectable 4.2 kW, 3.0 kW, and 2.0 kW Xenon projector lamps allows for screen coverage of up to 20 meters (65 feet) – providing a SMPTE-standard brightness level of 14 ft-L on a wide screen. Using an optional anamorphic lens (LKRL-A001), screen coverage can be extended up to 21.4 meters (70 feet).

 

Using Sony’s 3D dual lens adaptor, the SRX-R320 projector can deliver crisp 3D images on screens up to 15 meters (50 feet side-masked) in width at 4.5 ft-L brightness.

 

The lenses of the SRX-R320 have the capacity to reproduce resolutions higher than 4K, which is necessary to project 4K content exactly at 4K resolution. In addition, these lenses are designed to minimize chromatic aberrations.

 

The new system offers the optional STM-100 Theater Management System software suite that allows theater staff to efficiently manage multiple auditoriums from a central PC connected to a theater’s LAN. The TMS technology can provide efficient centralized management for cinema complexes.

 

The SRX-R320 4K projector and LMT-300 Media Block are planned to be available in November.