Christie Mirage S+14K User manual

Roadster / Mirage S+ User's Manual
Table of Contents
013-100189 (08/05) Software v1.1 Roadster / Mirage S+ User’s Manual i
REV.1
Section Contents Page
1.1 The Projectors...................................................................................................1-1
1.2 List of Components...........................................................................................1-2
1.3 Purchase Record and Warranty Registration ....................................................1-3
2.1 Quick Setup ......................................................................................................2-1
2.2 Installation Considerations................................................................................2-3
2.3 Projector Position and Mounting....................................................................2-14
2.4 Source Connections ........................................................................................2-17
2.5 Connecting Communications..........................................................................2-20
2.6 Connecting Multiple Projectors......................................................................2-23
2.7 Power Connection...........................................................................................2-26
2.8 Operating Orientation.....................................................................................2-27
2.9 Leveling..........................................................................................................2-27
2.10 Zoom, Focus, and Lens Offset........................................................................2-27
2.11 Keypad Conversion.........................................................................................2-28
3.1 Overview...........................................................................................................3-1
3.2 Projector Basics................................................................................................3-1
 Components/Features ..............................................................................3-1
3.3 Using the Keypads............................................................................................3-4
3.4 Navigating the Menus.....................................................................................3-11
3.5 Using Inputs and Channels .............................................................................3-14
3.6 Adjusting the Image........................................................................................3-20
3.7 Adjusting System Parameters and Advanced Controls...................................3-35
3.8 Working with PIP or Seamless Switching ......................................................3-46
3.9 Working with the Lamp..................................................................................3-49
3.10 Status Menu ....................................................................................................3-52
3.11 Using Multiple Projectors...............................................................................3-53
3.12 Remote Control of the Projector.....................................................................3-64
3.13 Error Conditions.............................................................................................3-64
4.1 Warnings and Guidelines..................................................................................4-1
4.2 Cleaning............................................................................................................4-3
4.3 Replacing Keypad Batteries..............................................................................4-4
4.4 Replacing the Lamp and Filter..........................................................................4-4
4.5 Replacing the Lens............................................................................................4-8
5.1 Displays............................................................................................................5-1
5.2 Lamp.................................................................................................................5-3
5.3 Ethernet.............................................................................................................5-4
6.1 Specifications....................................................................................................6-1
continued…
1Introduction
2
Installation &
Setup
3
Basic
Operation
4
Maintenance
5
Troubleshooting
6Specifications
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
ii Roadster / Mirage S+ User’s Manual
A Glossary...........................................................................................................A-1
B Remote Keypad................................................................................................B-1
C Serial Communication Cables..........................................................................C-1
D Throw Distance................................................................................................D-1
E System Integration ........................................................................................... E-1
F Optional Input Modules................................................................................. F-14
NOTE: Due to continuing research, all information in this manual is subject to change without notice
Appendices
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Section 1
Introduction
Roadster / Mirage S+ User’s Manual 1-1
The Roadster S+12K/S+16K and Mirage S+14K projectors are innovative, high
brightness DMD™ projectors that use next generation Digital Light Processing™
(DLP™) technology from Texas
Instruments. Both projector models
feature compact size, rugged
construction, and integral rigging
hardware, with the Roadster S+ series
ideal for difficult rental/staging
installations of multiple projectors, and
the Mirage S+ series featuring amazing
3D output. A quick-change lamp module,
no-tool lens replacement, and intuitive
user interface means the ultimate in
versatility and ease-of-use. These
projectors provide brilliant images with
1400 x 1050 clarity and perfect color saturation in a wide variety of applications.
The Roadster S+ series and Mirage S+ series each have features for your distinct
needs. The stereoscopic Mirage S+ projector provide 3D solutions for power walls,
simulation, and entertainment venues. Both Roadster S+ models include an
additional input module as well as integral hardware required for stacking and flying
up to 3 projectors.
General
 DLP™ 3-chip electronics with true 1400 x 1050 (SXGA+) native resolution
 10 bit digital video processing
 Single-lens design with field-interchangeable, fast-change lens – no tools needed
 Modular design for easy servicing
 Built-in handles and multiple rigging points
 Lenses
 Choice of lenses (from 0.73:1 up to 7.3:1)
 Motorized zoom, focus and H/V offsets
Lamps / Light Output
 Brightness (ANSI lumens)
 Roadster S+12K = 12000 +- 10%
 Roadster S+16K = 16000 +- 10%
 Mirage S+14K = 16000 +- 10%
 Contrast Ratio = 450-600:1 ANSI, 1500 – 1800:1 Full Field (adjustable)
 LiteLOC™ for automatic, constant-brightness control
 Quick change Bubble lamp module
1.1 The Projectors
Roadster S+12K / 16K
Main Features 
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INTRODUCTION
1-2 Roadster / Mirage S+ User’s Manual
Inputs
 One analog RGBHV/YPbPr input with 5 BNCs
 One DVI-I input for either digital RGB/YCrCb or analog RGB/YPbPr signals
 One analog composite-video input
 One analog S-video input
 Built-in multi-standard video decoder (NTSC, NTSC 4.43, PAL, PAL-M, PAL-
N, PAL-60 AND SECAM)
 One Dual SD/HD-SDI input (Roadster S+ series only)
 Compatible with all currently used HDTV formats
Special Display Functions
 Auto setup with seamless cut-and-fade source switching
 Electronic brightness uniformity
 Screen-to-screen matching and blending for smooth multiple-projector displays
Communications and Diagnostics
 2 standard keypads: built-in and remote (for IR or wired control)
 Front and rear IR sensors
 Ethernet, RS232, RS422, and GPIO control ports
 Easy-view LED for error codes and LCD for status and error messages
 Voltmeter for monitoring AC
Roadster S+ series and Mirage S+ series accept data/graphics and video input
signals for projection on to front or rear flat screens. High brightness light is
generated by an internal Bubble lamp, then modulated by three DMD (digital
micromirror device) panels that provide digitized red, green or blue color
information. Light from the “on” pixels of each panel is reflected, converged and
then projected to the screen through the front lens, where all pixels are superimposed
as a sharp full-color image.
Make sure you have received the following standard components:
 Projector
 Infrared (IR) remote keypad and conversion cable
 Power cord
 Using 3D in Mirage Manual
 Roadster S+ / Mirage S+ User’s Manual
 3D Stereo Sync Cable (Mirage S+ only)
Differences Between Models
The 2 Roadster S+ models differ in light output while the Mirage S+ series has 3D
capability but optional stacking hardware. Refer to this manual for all three models.
How The Pro
j
ectors Work 
1.2 Components
Model Name Lamp
Type
Dual SD/HD-
SDI Module
3D Stacking
Mounts
4 Top
Eyebolts
Integral Rigging
Hardware
Roadster S+12K 2.0 kW ✔Not available ✔✔✔
Roadster S+16K 2.4 kW ✔Not Available ✔✔✔
Mirage S+14K 2.4 kW Optional ✔Optional Optional ✔
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INTRODUCTION
Roadster / Mirage S+ User’s Manual 1-3
Whether the projector is under warranty or the warranty has expired, Christie’s
highly trained and extensive factory and dealer service network is always available to
quickly diagnose and correct projector malfunctions. Complete service manuals and
updates are available to service technicians for all projectors.
Should you encounter a problem with the projector and require assistance, contact
your dealer or Christie. In many cases, any necessary servicing can be performed on
site. If you have purchased the projector, fill out the Purchase Record below and keep
with your records. In addition, make sure to complete the Product Registration at the
Christie website—this will ensure that you receive all future product communications
promptly.
Purchase Record
Dealer:
Dealer Phone Number:
Projector Serial Number ✽ :
Purchase Date:
Installation Date, if applicable:
✽ NOTE: The projector serial number is located on the projector’s rear identification label
and in the projector’s “Status” menu.
1.3 Purchase
Record and
Warranty
Registration
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Section 2
Installation & Setup
Roadster / Mirage S+ User’s Manual 2-1
This section explains how to install and set up the projector. If you are familiar with the projector and want to quickly
set it up for temporary use, follow the Quick Setup instructions below. For a more complete setup, follow the
instructions and guides covered in the remaining subsections.
NOTE: The lens is not installed for shipping. For instructions on how to install or replace a lens, refer to 4.5,
Replacing the Lens.
Follow these steps for quick setup of the projector in a standard floor mount position.
Use either the remote or built-in keypad to work with the projected image.
Position the Projector
Set the projector at the expected throw distance (projector-to-screen distance) and
vertical position. See 2.3, Projector Position and Mounting and Appendix D. Make
sure that the projector is level from side-to-side (see Section 2.9, Leveling).
Connect a Source
Locate the main input panel at the rear of the projector and connector your source to
the appropriate input:
◊INPUT 1 (upper right area) – RGB input via BNC connectors.
◊INPUT 2 (left of BNCs) – digital or analog signals (DVI-I) from a computer.
◊INPUT 3 (upper middle area) – composite video.
◊INPUT 4 (upper middle area) – S-video.
◊INPUT 5 (lower area of Roadster S+panel) – a factory-installed Dual SD/HD-SDI
module which can accept serial digital.
◊INPUT 6 (lower area ) – for optional input modules (see Appendix F).
Connect to Power
Connect the projector’s line cord to the AC receptacle at the lower rear corner on the
rear the projector, and to proper AC. Use only the line cord provided with the
projector. Power requirements are shown below. Complete information is in Section 6.
◊The Roadster S+12K requires 200-240 VAC, 50-60 Hz, 13.5 amps @ 200 VAC.
◊The Roadster S+16K and the Mirage S+14K require 200-240 VAC, 50-60 Hz, 17.7
amps @ 200 VAC.
WARNING
Do not attempt operation if the AC supply and cord are not
within the specified voltage and power range. See Section 6.
2.1 Quick Setup
STEP 1 '
STEP 2 '
STEP 3 '
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INSTALLATION & SETUP
2-2 Roadster / Mirage S+ User’s Manual
Turn On the Projector and Lamp
1. On the projector, turn the power
breaker/switch on. The LCD Status
Display Window displays the
initializing window for 15 seconds,
then indicates POWER OFF (see
right).
2. Using the keypad, do one of the
following:
•Press and hold briefly to
toggle the lamp on.
•Press and release followed
immediately by .
•Press to toggle from the
off state.
The LCD Status Display Window
will display Powering Up and
then, Power On (Figure 2.1) while
the 2 Digit Status/Error Code
Window will display ON.
Select a Source
Using either keypad, press
Input 1
,
Input 2
,
Input 3
,
Input 4
,
Input 5
, or
Input 6
to select and display
the image for the source you connected in Step 2. The display will resize as needed,
producing an image as large as possible for the type of source present.
Optimize the Display
Press
Auto
Setup
on the built-in keypad (or on the remote keypad) to initiate an
automated process in which the projector optimizes critical display parameters such as
size, position, pixel tracking, etc., for the current source. Auto Setup can save time in
perfecting a display, and you can modify the adjustments later as desired. See Section 3.
Lens Adjustments
Note: Not applicable to fixed lenses. Focus fixed lens by turning focus ring on lens.
• ZOOM: With the input image displayed:
o If remote keypad: Press Zoom or .
o If built-in keypad: Press Zoom or .
Hold the key down to see the effect –arrows in the display indicate the
direction of the zoom (Figure 2.2).
• FOCUS: With the input image displayed:
o If remote keypad: Press Focus or .
o If built-in keypad: Press Focus or .
Hold the key down to see the effect – arrows in the display indicate
the direction of the focus (Figure 2.3).
STEP 4 '
Figure 2.1. Turning on the projector
STEP 5 '
STEP 6 '
STEP
7
'
Figure
2.2
Figure
2.3
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INSTALLATION & SETUP
Roadster / Mirage S+ User’s Manual 2-3
• • LENS OFFSET: To move the image:
o If remote keypad: Press either Lens H or
Lens V .
o If built-in keypad: Press
Lens
Shift
and use the arrow
keys.
Image Adjustments
Press
Menu
or (remote) to access display parameters described in Section 3
.
Although this projector delivers a high brightness, quality output, final display
quality could be compromised if the projector is not properly installed. This
subsection discusses issues you should consider before proceeding with a final
installation. Even if you do not intend to use the projectors in a fixed and permanent
installation, the following information will help you to better understand what you
can do to enhance display performance
For any new installation, you will likely have to safely lift or hoist the projector into
place. Keep in mind the following guidelines for safety.
Lifting
All models include handles for convenient hand transport only, such as when a
projector is lifted from a shipping container to a table. Note the following:
◊The handles are intended to support the weight of one projector only.
◊The handles are intended to support a projector for a brief time only.
◊The handles are not safety points, nor points from which to hoist or suspend
the projector.
WARNINGS
• The handles can’t support more than 1projector.
• Do not use handles for extended time periods.
• Do not use the handles as safety points, or as points
from which to suspend or hoist the projector.
Hoisting
Four integral rigging points on the top of the projector (Figure 2.5) and eight on the
bottom (Figure 2.6) enable either upright or inverted hoisting. For either orientation,
hoist an individual projector, or up to 3 projectors in a stack.
Figure 2.4
Ste
p
8 '
2.2 Installation
Considerations
Lifting, Hoisting, '
and Stackin
g
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INSTALLATION & SETUP
2-4 Roadster / Mirage S+ User’s Manual
Figure 2.5. Top Rigging Points
RULES FOR ALL HOISTING:
◊Use at least 4rigging points for hoisting up
to 3projectors.
◊Connect safety cables, and rigging
equipment to the designated locations on
the projector.
◊Use hoisting and rigging equipment suitable
to your application such as clamps, cables,
eyebolts, or straps, and which accommodate
the load rating. All integral, metric
hardware on the projector accepts an M12
thread only.
◊Never hoist a projector by its feet, handles,
or any other component (Figure 2.7).
WARNING
Use metric hardware only.
Never force incompatible threads.
RECOMMENDED
Remove the lens before hoisting a projector.
WARNING
Never hoist a projector by its feet,
handles, or any other component.
Figure 2.6. Bottom Rigging
Points
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INSTALLATION & SETUP
Roadster / Mirage S+ User’s Manual 2-5
Figure 2.7. NEVER Use Handles for Hoisting or as Safety Points
This procedure applies to one or more projectors. To hoist a stack, first stack 2 or 3
projectors according to the stacking procedure included in this manual. Never stack
or hoist more than 3 projectors together.
Remove lens (recommended)
To prevent possible lens damage during hoisting, remove the lens. See 4.4, Replacing
the Lamp and Filter.
Retract feet
Retract the adjustable feet if the projector is inverted to prevent the hoisting hardware
from becoming snagged.
Attach safety cables
Attach a safety cable to each of the (2) eyebolts
mounted on the bottom of the projector (Figure
2.8).
WARNING
Always use at least 2 safety cables for any
hoisting.
WARNING
Attach safety cables
to the 2 eyebolts.
NOTE: When hoisting a non-inverted projector
or stack, add 2 safety eyebolts in the front and
rear threaded holes provided on the top of the
projector. Make sure the eyebolts are rated
adequately for the load. Secure safety cabling
to both eyebolts.
Hoistin
g
Procedure '
STEP 1 '
STEP 2 '
STEP 3 '
Figure 2.8. Attach Safety Cables
NOTE: ADD EYEBOLTS (2)
IF NON-INVERTED
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INSTALLATION & SETUP
2-6 Roadster / Mirage S+ User’s Manual
Attach rigging hardware
Secure your
rigging
components to the
appropriate rigging
points—8 sliding
points are provided
on the bottom.
Tighten the nut at
each required
location (Figure
2.9) to prevent
sliding.
NOTE: 1) Use at
least 4 rigging
points for all
hoisting. 2) Use
straps, clamps or
cabling with load
capacity adequate
for the total
projector weight.
See Section 6. 3)
Do not join the
rigging straps or
cables to a
common point—
keep separated as
shown.
WARNINGS
• Maximum stack = 3 projectors.
• Stack first, then hoist.
NOTES: 1) Requires stacking hardware provided standard with Roadster S+only.
Available separately for Mirage S+. 2) Requires at least 2 people.
Roadster S+and Mirage S+projectors can be stacked in either the upright or inverted
position. Do not mix orientations—i.e., inverted with upright—in a stack. Secure a
maximum of 3 projectors with the stacking mounts as described below.
WARNING
Do not stack more than 3 projectors.
WARNING
Christie stacking hardware required. The top
projector could slide off and cause injury or death.
WARNING
Never carry a stack.
STEP 4 '
Figure 2.9. Using the Rigging Hardware
Stackin
g
Procedure '
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INSTALLATION & SETUP
Roadster / Mirage S+ User’s Manual 2-7
Position the projectors
Place the projectors to be
stacked on a secure table or
cart.
• Place one projector on its
side to access its
adjustable feet and
stacking legs (Figure
2.10).
• Orient the other projector
in either upright or
inverted position as
required (remember,
each projector in a stack
must be in the same
orientation).
Fully retract the (4) adjustable feet
Retract each foot as far as possible by turning it clockwise.
• If upright – retract the feet on top projector.
• If inverted – retract the feet on bottom projector.
Extend the (3) stacking legs
Extend the stacking legs by turning
them so that at least 1 inch of thread is
visible on each. This clearance
accommodates the up-or-down
movement for aligning the images from
stacked projectors. Extend all 3 legs
equally (Figure 2.11).
• If upright – extend legs on top
projector (shown).
• If inverted – extend legs on bottom
projector.
IMPORTANT
Extend the stacking legs
equally by at least 1 inch.
Loosen the rear stacking leg nuts
On the rear stacking legs, loosen the nuts so the legs have some lateral movement for
easier alignment with the stacking mounts on the other projector.
STEP 1 '
Figure 2.10.
STEP 2 '
STEP 3 '
Figure 2.11. Extend 3 Stacking Legs
(UPRIGHT STACK SHOWN)
STEP 4 '
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INSTALLATION & SETUP
2-8 Roadster / Mirage S+ User’s Manual
Figure 2.12. Loosen 2 Nuts
• If upright – release on top projector.
• If inverted – release on bottom projector.
Release and remove (3) safety pins
The safety pins must be removed from the
stacking mounts so that the stacking legs can fit
into the mounts (Figure 2.13).
• If upright – remove the pins from the mounts
on the bottom projector.
• If inverted – remove the pins from the
mounts on the top projector.
Place top projector on bottom projector
WARNING
Minimum of 2 people required.
With one person on each side, lift the top projector on to bottom projector, aligning
all three stacking points between projectors. Legs should fit inside stacking mounts.
Align holes in (3) stacking mounts and (3) stacking legs.
On each stacking mount, turn the adjusting wheel slightly until the hole in the top
portion of the mount lines up with the hole in the stacking leg (Figure 2.14).
NOTE: You can increase leverage by using a screwdriver in the holes.
STEP 5 '
Figure 2.13. Remove Safety Pins
STEP 6 '
STEP
7
'
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INSTALLATION & SETUP
Roadster / Mirage S+ User’s Manual 2-9
Figure 2.14. Align Holes in Mounts and Legs, and LOCK with Pin
Insert (3) safety pins and LOCK all
WARNING
Critical Safety Procedure.
At each of the (3) stacking points, insert the safety pin fully through the holes in the
stacking mounts and stacking legs (Figure 2.14). Ensure that each pin is fully inserted to
engage the safety lock and secure the projectors together. Failure to engage the safety
lock could cause the projectors to separate and result in injury or death.
WARNING
Failure to engage the safety lock could cause the
projectors to separate and result in injury or death.
Leg Nuts
Before hoisting, firmly tighten the nuts on the (2) rear stacking legs (Figure 2.14). Or,
if you are ready to align the projectors to one another, leave these nuts slightly loose
until after the alignment.
Repeat STEPS 1–9 for a third projector.
WARNING
Never stack more than 3 projectors.
Stacked projectors must be correctly aligned to one another so that the resulting
display is optimized and as sharp as possible. If you are also hoisting the stack, hoist
the stack into place first, then align. Lock all stacking hardware into place to maintain
your alignment.
IMPORTANT
Make sure the stacking legs have been extended
by at least 1 inch, and are slightly loosened.
Refer back to Figure 2.11.
STEP 8 '
STEP 9 '
STEP 10 '
A
li
g
nment Procedure '
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INSTALLATION & SETUP
2-10 Roadster / Mirage S+ User’s Manual
Before You Begin
 Always align to the fixed projector. In floor-mount or table-mount (i.e., non-
hoisted) stacks, you will align to the bottom projector as shown in drawings
below. In hoisted stacks, align to the top projector.
 Leg nuts must be loosened before alignment, otherwise the stacking mounts will
not turn and allow movement of the projector.
Position the first image (fixed projector)
Position the fixed projector’s image as desired and align the other image(s) to it as
described below.
Display the grid test pattern
To distinguish each image, enable “Red” for one display and “Green” for the other.
See 3.3, Using the Keypads if you need help enabling colors.
Adjust zoom and focus
Minimize each projector’s zoom and images are in focus.
Try aligning the two grid patterns
Adjust zoom and offset on the top projector to precisely move its test pattern display
on to the bottom test pattern. When properly aligned, all red/green grid lines in the
combined image will turn yellow.
• If all lines are well-aligned, skip to STEP 7 to lock all stacking mounts.
• If alignment needs improvement, proceed with the next step.
Align the center lines of the grid
Turn the (2) rear stacking mount
wheels to move the top projector
as necessary for well-aligned
center lines. Use a screwdriver in
the holes around the rim of each
adjusting wheel for better leverage
and control.
HOW TO MOVE THE IMAGE:
Turned independently, each
stacking mount acts as a pivot
point for the opposite edge of the
display (see right). For example,
turn the right mount to tilt the left
portion of the image up or down,
and turn the left mount to tilt the
right portion of the image up or
down. Turn together to raise or
lower the top image like an offset adjustment, or turn the front stacker.
IF THE CENTER LINES FORM AN “X”: This indicates that the projectors (and images)
are slightly tilted in relation to one another. Turn one mount to raise one side, and/or
turn the other mount to lower other side. See Figure 2.15.
STEP 1 '
STEP 2 '
STEP 3 '
STEP 4 '
STEP 5 '
Figure 2.15. Adjustment Directions (Tilt)
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INSTALLATION & SETUP
Roadster / Mirage S+ User’s Manual 2-11
IF THE CENTER LINES ARE PARALLEL BUT MISALIGNED:
• If centerlines are out by the same amount from top
and bottom – use offsets (on top projector) to bring
the centerlines into alignment.
• If centerlines are parallel but
others are not, turn the front
stacking mount wheel to bring
the centerlines into alignment.
Align the edges of the grid
With center lines aligned, adjust zoom (top projector) to align the edges of its image
with the other image. Then adjust focus. When aligned, all lines from the combined
red/green grids will be yellow.
Secure all stacking wheels and leg nuts
WARNING
Critical Safety Procedure.
 Turn all (3) stacking wheels until they are firmly
secure against the rest of the stacking mount.
 Secure both (2) rear leg nuts against the bottom of
the projector.
Repeat steps 1 to 7 for a third projector
Choose the installation type which suits your needs:
front or rear screen, floor mount or inverted mount.
Front Screen, Floor Mount Installation
ADVANTAGES CONSIDERATIONS
• Easy to set up
• Can be moved or changed quickly
• Easy to access
• Shares floor space with audience
Front Screen, Inverted Mount (ceiling) Installation
ADVANTAGES CONSIDERATIONS
• Does not take up audience space
• Projector is unobtrusive
• Projector cannot be accidentally moved
• Installation is more permanent
• It is more difficult to access the projector
STEP 6 '
STEP
7
'
Figure 2.16. Secure All
Hardware
STEP 8 '
Installation T
yp
e '
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INSTALLATION & SETUP
2-12 Roadster / Mirage S+ User’s Manual
Rear Screen, Floor Mount Installation
ADVANTAGES CONSIDERATIONS
• Projector is completely hidden
• Projector is easily accessed
• Usually good ambient light rejection
• Requires separate room
• Requires rear projection screen
Rear Screen, Inverted Mount (ceiling) Installation
ADVANTAGES CONSIDERATIONS
• Projector is completely hidden
• Usually good ambient light rejection
• Requires separate room
• Installation cost is usually higher
Rear Screen, Floor Mount with Mirror
ADVANTAGES CONSIDERATIONS
• Projector is completely hidden
• Usually good ambient light rejection
• Requires less space behind screen than
other rear screen installations
• Requires separate room
• Installation cost is usually higher
Front Screen Installations
While there are two basic screen types, flat and curved, generally flat screens are
recommended for this projector (Figure 2.17)X. Flat screens offer a gain of about 1
with a viewing angle just less than 180°. Incident light reflects equally in all
directions so the audience can see the display from various angles. Because of the
low gain, flat screens are most effective when ambient lighting is reduced, although
this difference may be negligible given the high brightness output from this projector.
Figure 2.17. Audience Coverage with Flat Screen Figure 2.17
NOTE: Lenses for this projector are designed primarily for use with flat screens, but
the projector depth-of-field range allows the lens to be focused on curved screens as
well. While focus remains sharp in the corners, there may be significant pincushion
distortion, primarily at the top of the screen.
Rear Screen Installations
There are two basic types of rear screens: diffused and optical . A diffused screen has
a surface which spreads the light striking it. Purely diffused screens have a gain of
less than 1. The main advantage of the diffused screen is its wide viewing angle,
similar to that of a flat screen for front screen projection. Optical screens take light
from the projector and redirect it to increase the light intensity at the front of the
screen. This increase at the front reduces the intensity in other areas. A viewing cone,
similar to that of a curved front screen installation, is created.
Screen T
yp
e '
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INSTALLATION & SETUP
Roadster / Mirage S+ User’s Manual 2-13
To summarize, optical screens are better suited for brightly lit rooms where the
audience is situated within the viewing cone. Diffused screens may be better suited
when a wide viewing angle is required but there is low ambient room lighting.
Screen size may vary from 4 feet (122 cm) to 45 feet (1372cm) diagonal, depending
on the lens you are using. For instance, a 0.73:1 lens can produce a 5 foot (150 cm) to
a 14 foot (548 cm) image size depending on the location of the projector, whereas a
4.5-7.3:1 zoom lens produces an 8 foot(160 cm) to 40 foot (438 cm) image size.
Choose a screen size appropriate for your lens and application. Keep in mind that if
the projector will be used to display text information, the image size must allow the
audience to recognize all text clearly. The eye usually sees a letter clearly if eye-to-
text distance is less than 150 times the height of the letter. Small text located too far
from the eye may be illegible at a distance no matter how sharply and clearly it is
displayed.
Ideally, to fill a screen with an image, the aspect ratio of the screen should be equal to
the aspect ratio of the image. The aspect ratio of an image is expressed as the ratio of
its width to its height such as a 4:3 aspect. Standard video from a VCR has a 4:3
aspect ratio. For example, to display a VCR output with a 4:3 aspect ratio onto a 10
foot (3m) high screen, the width of the screen must be at least 13.3 feet (4m).
Aspect ratio (Figure 2.18) describes the proportion of the screen and is expressed as
the ratio of width to height, such as “4:3” or “5:4”. Although image size and image
aspect ratio can both be adjusted quickly through projector software, it is still a good
idea to choose a screen aspect ratio which is most appropriate for your intended
applications.
Ideally, to exactly fill a screen with an image, the aspect
ratio of the screen should correspond to the aspect ratio of
the image, which depends on the source in use. For
example, standard video from a VCR has a 4:3 ratio
(approximately), whereas a high resolution graphics signal
typically has a 5:4 aspect ratio. By default, images from
your projector will be as large as possible and will maintain
their aspect ratio.
The SXGA+ (1400 x 1050) aspect ratio for the Roadster
and Mirage models is 4:3.
The high brightness of this projector is well suited for locations where ambient
lighting might be considered less than ideal for projection. Even a typical room or
large auditorium fully lit with ceiling lights and windows rarely requires special
attention. Contrast ratio in your images will be noticeably reduced only if light
directly strikes the screen, such as when a shaft of light from a window or floodlight
falls on the image. Images may then appear washed out and less vibrant.
In general, avoid or eliminate light sources directed at the screen.
Other considerations and tips which can help improve your installation:
• Keep the ambient temperature constant and below 35°C (95°F). Keep the
projector away from heating and/or air conditioning vents. Changes in
temperature may cause drifts in the projector circuitry which may affect
performance.
Screen Size '
Screen As
p
ect Ratio '
Figure 2.18. Aspect
Ratio
A
mb
i
ent Li
g
htin
g
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Other Considerations '
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INSTALLATION & SETUP
2-14 Roadster / Mirage S+ User’s Manual
• Keep the projector away from devices which radiate electromagnetic energy such
as motors and transformers. Common sources of these include slide projectors,
speakers, power amplifiers, elevators, etc.
• Choose the best screen size for the application. Since more magnification reduces
brightness, use a screen size appropriate for the venue but not larger than
required. Installing a large screen in a small room is similar to watching
television at a close range; too large a screen can overpower a room and interfere
with the overall effect. A good rule of thumb is to be no closer than 1.5 times the
width of the screen.
Installation type, screen type, and lighting all affect where the projector is positioned.
In addition, both throw distance (the distance between the projector and screen) and
vertical position (the height of the projector in relation to the screen) must be
determined for every new installation. Both depend on the screen size and lens type
you are using. Make sure that the room can accommodate the required position of the
projector for the chosen screen size.
Figure 2.19. Estimating Throw Distance
(SEE APPENDIX D)
For any installation, an accurate throw distance (TD) must be determined in order for
the image to be of the right size for your screen–the farther the projector is from the
screen, the larger the image. Throw distance is the distance between the projector’s
front feet axes and the screen (Figure 2.19), and is roughly equal to the horizontal
width of the screen multiplied by the throw ratio of the installed lens. Once you know
your screen size and lens, you can estimate throw distance needed. For example:
• Screen Width = 10 feet
• Lens Type is 0.7:1
• Throw Distance (TD) = 10 feet x 0.7 = 7feet
NOTES: 1) If your projector is slightly tilted in relation to the screen, typical for
large venues or flown installations, throw distance still represents the smallest
measurement between the screen and front feet. 2) For proper placement in an
installation, always refer to the throw distance formula and/or chart for your lens as
listed in Appendix D. Keep in mind that due to lens manufacturing tolerances for
2.3 Projector
Position and
Mounting
Throw Distance '
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