Electrohome VistaGRAPHX 10K User manual

PLEASE READ
This manual is provided as a free service
by Projector.com.
We are in no way responsible for the
contents of the manual. We do not guarantee
its accuracy and we do not make any claim
of copyright. The copyright remains the
property of their respective owners.
ABOUT PROJECTOR.COM
Projector.com (http://www.projector.com) is
your review and buying guide resource for
DLP and LCD video projectors.
Visit the site to read the latest projector
news and reviews, read and comment on
projector specifications, download user
manuals and much more.

Downloaded from Projector.com
8VHU*V#0DQXDO
7DEOH#RI#&RQWHQWV
87034:4390343#+3;2<<,#³#6RIWZDUH#9HUVLRQ#514 9LVWD*5$3+;#43.#8VHU*V#0DQXDO LLL
6HFWLRQ &RQWHQWV 3DJH
1.1 The Projector.................................................................................................... 1-1
1.2 Components...................................................................................................... 1-2
1.3 Purchase Record and Servicing........................................................................ 1-2
2.1 Quick Setup...................................................................................................... 2-1
2.2 Installation Considerations............................................................................... 2-2
2.3 Projector Position and Mounting...................................................................... 2-8
2.4 Source Connections........................................................................................ 2-12
2.5 Power Connection.......................................................................................... 2-16
2.6 Operating Orientation..................................................................................... 2-16
2.7 Leveling ......................................................................................................... 2-17
2.8 Zoom, Focus & Vertical Offset...................................................................... 2-17
2.9 Serial Port Connections.................................................................................. 2-17
2.10 Keypad Protocols........................................................................................... 2-21
3.1 Overview.......................................................................................................... 3-1
3.2 Projector Basics ............................................................................................... 3-1
3.3 Using the Keypad............................................................................................. 3-5
3.4 Navigating the Menus .................................................................................... 3-12
3.5 Using Inputs and Channels............................................................................. 3-17
3.6 Adjusting the Image ....................................................................................... 3-21
3.7 Adjusting and Checking System Parameters.................................................. 3-33
3.8 Using Multiple Projectors.............................................................................. 3-39
3.9 Error Conditions............................................................................................. 3-40
4.1 Warnings and Guidelines ................................................................................. 4-1
4.2 Cleaning........................................................................................................... 4-3
4.3 Replacing Keypad Batteries............................................................................. 4-3
4.4 Replacing the Lamp and Filter......................................................................... 4-4
4.5 Replacing the Lens........................................................................................... 4-9
4.6 Troubleshooting............................................................................................. 4-12
5.1 Specifications................................................................................................... 5-1
A Glossary ...........................................................................................................A-1
B Keypad Reference ...........................................................................................B-1
C Menu Tree........................................................................................................C-1
D Serial Communication Cables..........................................................................D-1
E Throw Distance................................................................................................E-1
F Optional Input Modules ................................................................................... F-1
NOTE: Due to constant research, all information in this manual is subject to change without notice
4,QWURGXFWLRQ
5,QVWDOODWLRQ#)
6HWXS
62SHUDWLRQ
70DLQWHQDQFH
86SHFLILFDWLRQV
9$SSHQGLFHV

Downloaded from Projector.com
6HFWLRQ#4
,QWURGXFWLRQ
9LVWD*5$3+;#43.#8VHU*V#0DQXDO#404
VistaGRAPHX 10K Roadie is a professional-quality DMDprojector that uses 3-
chip Digital Light Processing(DLP) technology from Texas Instruments to
achieve stunning ultra high-
brightness multimedia and video
projection. It is a rugged
projector ideal for use in extra
large audience venues, such as
auditoriums, arenas and outdoor
stages. The VistaGRAPHX 10K
Roadie is compatible with
standard international video
formats and can interface with
IBM-compatible PCs,
Macintoshcomputers, and
workstations. Features include:
◊up to 10000 ANSI lumens brightness
◊contrast ratio greater than 160:1 ANSI; over 300:1 full field
◊1024 x 768 pixels true resolution, with other resolutions fully scaleable
◊independent horizontal and vertical size adjustment for custom scaling
◊interchangeable lenses for diagonal screen sizes up to 40 feet
◊displays NTSC, PAL and SECAM video input (requires optional decoder)
◊displays input from PCs, VCRs, laser-disc players, video cameras, etc.
◊memory for up to 99 custom “channels” (source setups)
◊intuitive on-screen menus or hidden direct control
◊identical built-in and remote keypads
◊controller and switcher compatibility
◊input switching with keypad
◊Intelligent Lens Systemfor automatic recall of lens settings from channel to
channel
◊built-in RS-232 input for computer control and networked projectors
◊RS-422 input for extra long distance control
◊rugged, functional design for harsh environments and secure handling
◊modular design for easy servicing
VistaGRAPHX 10K accepts data/graphics and video input signals for projection
onto flat or curved front or rear projection screens. High brightness light is
generated by an internal 1.8 kilowatt Xenon arc lamp, then modulated by three
414 7KH#3URMHFWRU
)LJXUH#4041#9,VWD*5$3+;#43.
+RZ#LW#:RUNV ö

Downloaded from Projector.com
,1752'8&7,21
9LVWD*5$3+;#43.#8VHU*V#0DQXDO
405
DMD (digital micromirror device) panels that provide digitized red, green, or
blue color information. Light from the "ON" pixels of each panel is reflected,
converged and then projected to the screen through a single front lens, where all
pixels are perfectly superimposed as a sharp full-color image.
The projector enclosure is comprised of a combination of metal panels,
extrusions and polymer bezels. Separate access doors and grill panels are easily
removed for quick replacement of the lamp and filter. Modular internal design
provides for ease-of-service and minimal down-time.
Included with the standard projector is a built-in keypad, infrared (IR) remote
keypad, integral 30 amp line cord, 4 eye bolts, and a VistaGRAPHX 10K User's
Manual. Make sure you have all these items, and note that if you have purchased
the projector, a purchaser’s Warranty Registration Card is also included — fill
out this card and return it directly to Electrohome.
NOTE: While the VistaGRAPHX 10K does not include a video decoder module
(optional), this manual assumes that the video decoder is installed.
)LJXUH#4151#VistaGRAPHX 10K#6\VWHP#&RPSRQHQWV#+ZLWK#/HQV#$GGHG,
Whether the projector is under warranty or the warranty has expired,
Electrohome's extensive factory and dealer service network is always available.
Electrohome service technicians are fully trained to quickly diagnose and correct
projector malfunctions. Complete service manuals and updates are available to
service technicians for all purchased VistaGRAPHX 10K projectors.
If you have a problem with the projector and require assistance, contact your
dealer or Electrohome. In many cases, servicing can be performed on site. If you
have purchased the projector, fill out the information below and keep with your
records.
3XUFKDVH#5HFRUG
'HDOHU=
'HDOHU#3KRQH#1XPEHU=
3URMHFWRU#6HULDO#1XPEHU-=
3XUFKDVH#'DWH=
,QVWDOODWLRQ#'DWH/#LI#DSSOLFDEOH=
* NOTE: The projector serial number is on the projector's front identification label.
&RQVWUXFWLRQ ö
415 &RPSRQHQWV
416 3XUFKDVH
5HFRUG#DQG
6HUYLFLQJ

Downloaded from Projector.com
6HFWLRQ#5
,QVWDOODWLRQ#)#6HWXS
9LVWD*5$3+;#43.#8VHU*V#0DQXDO#504
This section explains how to install and set up the projector. If you are familiar with the projector and want to
quickly set it up for temporary use, follow the Quick Setup instructions below. For a more complete setup, follow
the instructions and guides covered in the remaining subsections.
NOTES: 1) The lens for the projector is not mounted when shipped from the factory. For instructions on how to
install or replace a lens, refer to 4.5, Replacing the Lens. 2) This manual assumes the video decoder is installed.
Follow these 6 steps for quick temporary setup of the projector.
3RVLWLRQ#WKH#3URMHFWRU
Set the projector at the proper throw distance (projector-to-screen distance) and
vertical position. See 2.3, Projector Position and Mounting and Appendix E.
Make sure that the projector is level from side-to-side (see 2.7, Leveling).
&RQQHFW#D#6RXUFH
Locate the four input panels at the front left corner of the projector. The upper
right panel accepts an RGB input via BNC connectors. The lower left panel
accepts a composite video and S-video input. Connect a source to the appropriate
panel.
&RQQHFW#WKH#/LQH#&RUG#WR#$&#3RZHU
The projector has its own integral 30-amp line cord for connecting to AC. Input
power required is 220 - 240 VAC, 50 to 60 Hz @ 12 amps. Twist plug to secure.
:$51,1*=
'R#QRW#DWWHPSW#RSHUDWLRQ#LI#WKH#$&#VXSSO\#LV#QRW
ZLWKLQ#WKH#VSHFLILHG#YROWDJH#DQG#SRZHU#UDQJH1
7XUQ#WKH#3URMHFWRU#21
Using either keypad, press 3RZHU-and hold for a second or two to turn the
projector on (or press 3RZHU-21 ). Let the projector warm up for about five
minutes. The Power LED and the AC LED should both glow a steady green.
6HOHFW#D#6RXUFH
Using either keypad, press
,QSXW4
,
,QSXW5
,
,QSXW6
, or
,QSXW7
to select anddisplaythe image
forthesource you connected in Step2.It will resize as needed, producing an image
as large as possible while maintaining the original aspect ratio.
514 4XLFN#6HWXS
67(3#4# ö
67(3#5# ö
67(3#6# ö
67(3#7# ö
67(3#8# ö

Downloaded from Projector.com
,167$//$7,21#)#6(783
9LVWD*5$3+;#43.#8VHU*V#0DQXDO
505
$GMXVW#)RFXV#DQG#=RRP
With the input image displayed, press
/HQV
on either keypad. In the Lens menu
that should appear, press
(QWHU
to adjust the first double slidebar for focus and
zoom (NOTE: This zoom adjustment requires a VistaGRAPHX ILS

zoom lens).
Use the keypad as shown above to focus the image clearly and to increase or
decrease image size (applies to motorized zoom lenses only). If desired, adjust
horizontal or vertical options to shift the image location. Press
(QWHU
when you are
done with a double slidebar. To go to the other slidebar, press or and press
(QWHU
. Or simply press the desired option number.
NOTE: If the menu does not appear when you press
/HQV
, the OSD (on-screen
display) has likely been turned off. You can still adjust the options as described,
or press and hold 26'-for a moment if you want to turn the menu back on.
Press
0HQX
to refine other display parameters. See 3.5, Using Inputs and
Channels if you want to work with other source inputs or defined channels.
Although VistaGRAPHX 10K delivers a high brightness quality output, the 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 VistaGRAPHX 10K in a fixed
and permanent installation, this subsection will help you to better understand
what may be done 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.
8VLQJ#WKH#,QWHJUDO#+DQGOHV
The projector includes integral wrap-around aluminum handles for convenient
grasping. While these handles are adequate for brief hand transport, such as
lifting or carrying over short distances by 2 or more people, the end handles are
not intended to support the entire weight of the projector for extended periods of
time. In particular, do not hoist or suspend the projector from these end handles
or use them in an installation (see Figure 2-1).
###:$51,1*
8VH#HQG#KDQGOHV#IRU
EULHI#KDQG#WUDQVSRUW#RQO\1
67(3#9 ö
515 ,QVWDOODWLRQ
&RQVLGHUDWLRQV
/LIWLQJ#DQG#+RLVWLQJ ö

Downloaded from Projector.com
,167$//$7,21#)#6(783
9LVWD*5$3+;#43.#8VHU*V#0DQXDO 506
+RLVWLQJ#WKH#3URMHFWRU#LQWR#3ODFH
You can use appropriate nylon webbed strapping and hoisting/rigging equipment
to lift the projector and/or install it as a permanently suspended installation.
Make sure to attach the straps inside
the side handles only, as shown in
Figure 2-2 — do not use the end or
side handles. Hoist only one projector
at a time.
#,03257$17
5HPRYH#WKH#OHQV#EHIRUH#KRLVWLQJ1
Note that the projector also includes
tapped bolt holes in each corner that
accept screw-in eye bolts (provided).
Attach the 4 eye bolts and rig them
with safety cabling whenever you are
hoisting the projector into place or
suspending it permanently (Figure 2-3).
)LJXUH#5061#6DIHW\#&DEOHV
)LJXUH#5041#'R#QRW#KRLVW#E\#HQG#KDQGOHV
)LJXUH#5051#6WUDSV#LQ#3ODFH
#:$51,1*
8VH#VWUDSV#RU#FDEOLQJ
ZLWK#ORDG#FDSDFLW\
DGHTXDWH#IRU#WKH
SURMHFWRU#ZHLJKW1
6HH#SDJH#8061
#:$51,1*
8VH#DW#OHDVW#53#LQ1#OE1
WRUTXH#WR#DWWDFK
H\HEROWV1

Downloaded from Projector.com
,167$//$7,21#)#6(783
9LVWD*5$3+;#43.#8VHU*V#0DQXDO
507
Choose the installation type which suits your needs: front or rear screen, floor
mount or inverted mount.
)URQW#6FUHHQ/#)ORRU#0RXQW#,QVWDOODWLRQ
$'9$17$*(6 &216,'(5$7,216
•(DV\#WR#VHW#XS
•&DQ#EH#PRYHG#RU#FKDQJHG#TXLFNO\
•(DV\#WR#DFFHVV
•6KDUHV#IORRU#VSDFH#ZLWK#DXGLHQFH
)URQW#6FUHHQ/#,QYHUWHG#0RXQW#+FHLOLQJ,#,QVWDOODWLRQ
$'9$17$*(6 &216,'(5$7,216
•'RHV#QRW#WDNH#XS#DXGLHQFH#VSDFH
•3URMHFWRU#LV#XQREWUXVLYH
•3URMHFWRU#FDQQRW#EH#DFFLGHQWDOO\#PRYHG
•,QVWDOODWLRQ#LV#PRUH#SHUPDQHQW
•,W#LV#PRUH#GLIILFXOW#WR#DFFHVV#WKH#SURMHFWRU
5HDU#6FUHHQ/#)ORRU#0RXQW#,QVWDOODWLRQ
$'9$17$*(6 &216,'(5$7,216
•3URMHFWRU#LV#FRPSOHWHO\#KLGGHQ
•3URMHFWRU#LV#HDVLO\#DFFHVVHG
•8VXDOO\#JRRG#DPELHQW#OLJKW#UHMHFWLRQ
•5HTXLUHV#VHSDUDWH#URRP
5HDU#6FUHHQ/#,QYHUWHG#0RXQW#+FHLOLQJ,#,QVWDOODWLRQ
$'9$17$*(6 &216,'(5$7,216
•3URMHFWRU#LV#FRPSOHWHO\#KLGGHQ
•8VXDOO\#JRRG#DPELHQW#OLJKW#UHMHFWLRQ
•5HTXLUHV#VHSDUDWH#URRP
•,QVWDOODWLRQ#FRVW#LV#XVXDOO\#KLJKHU
5HDU#6FUHHQ/#)ORRU#0RXQW#ZLWK#0LUURU
$'9$17$*(6 &216,'(5$7,216
•3URMHFWRU#LV#FRPSOHWHO\#KLGGHQ
•8VXDOO\#JRRG#DPELHQW#OLJKW#UHMHFWLRQ
•5HTXLUHV#OHVV#VSDFH#EHKLQG#VFUHHQ#WKDQ
RWKHU#UHDU#VFUHHQ#LQVWDOODWLRQV
•5HTXLUHV#VHSDUDWH#URRP1
•,QVWDOODWLRQ#FRVW#LV#XVXDOO\#KLJKHU
Screen type is important when designing a projection system. Inexperienced
users or installers should always consult their dealer when deciding on screen
type. The following guidelines explain the differences between screen types.
)URQW#6FUHHQ#,QVWDOODWLRQV
There are two basic screen types: flat and curved. The choice between a flat
screen or a curved screen is dependent on audience viewing angle and screen
gain. There is always a trade-off between viewing angle and gain. Viewing
angles for both screen types are illustrated in Figure 2-4 and Figure 2-5 (plan
views).
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 lower gain, flat screens are more effective
when ambient lighting is reduced, although this difference may be negligible
given the ultra high brightness output from this projector.
,QVWDOODWLRQ#7\SH ö
6FUHHQ#7\SH ö

Downloaded from Projector.com
,167$//$7,21#)#6(783
9LVWD*5$3+;#43.#8VHU*V#0DQXDO 508
)LJXUH#5071#$XGLHQFH#&RYHUDJH#ZLWK#)ODW#6FUHHQ
)LJXUH#5081#$XGLHQFH#&RYHUDJH#ZLWK#&XUYHG#6FUHHQ
Curved screens have gains larger than 1 (due in part to the screen material) and
viewing angles much less than 180°. Most curved screens have different
horizontal and vertical viewing angles. Incident light does not reflect equally in
all directions. The reflected light concentrates in a conical volume or "viewing
cone". Audiences within the viewing cone see a brighter image than that from an
equal area on a flat screen. Audiences outside the viewing cone see a dimmer
image.
NOTE: VistaGRAPHX 10K lenses are designed primarily for use with flat screens.
However, the projector depth-of-field range allows the lens to be focused on
curved screens as well. Focus remains sharp in the corners, however there may
be significant pincushion distortion, primarily at the top of the screen.
5HDU#6FUHHQ#,QVWDOODWLRQV
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 reduces it in other areas. A viewing cone, similar to that
of a curved front screen installation, is created.

Downloaded from Projector.com
,167$//$7,21#)#6(783
9LVWD*5$3+;#43.#8VHU*V#0DQXDO
509
To summarize, optical screens are better suited for brightly lit rooms where the
audience is situated within the viewing cone. Diffused screens are best suited
when a wide viewing angle is required but there is low ambient room lighting.
Screen size may be from 6 to 40 feet diagonal, depending on the lens you are
using. For instance, a 1:1 lens produces a 6-30 foot image size, whereas a 4-7:1
zoom lens produces a 10-40 foot image size. Choose a screen size which is
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.
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. Standard video from a VCR has a 4:3 or 1.33:1
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).
Note: Screen size is often specified as diagonal size. Screens specified by
diagonal size have aspect ratios of 4:3. Screens with other aspect ratios are not
typically specified by diagonal size.
The high brightness output of VistaGRAPHX 10K is certainly well suited for
locations where ambient lighting is less than optimum for projection, but there
are still many simple things you can do to optimize your installation.
Visiting a movie theater can give you an idea of what makes an ideal projection
environment. Walls, floors and furnishings are dark and matte finished. A
projection room should not have white reflective ceilings or non-directional
lighting such as fluorescent lights. The white ceiling spreads light, making the
room appear brighter. Keep lighting and reflections to a minimum.
If it is not possible to eliminate fluorescent lights, consider using incandescent
spot lighting or parabolic reflectors ("egg crates") to direct light down to the
floor. Light dimmers or rheostats allow further control.
Outside windows are undesirable in any projection room. A small crack between
curtains on a sunny day can wash out a projected image. If you do have
windows, make sure that window coverings are opaque and overlapping — some
window coverings are designed to provide up to 100 percent blockage of outside
light. Ideally, the material should have a matte finish.
To minimize the effects caused by unwanted light from door and aisle ways,
carefully choose the position of your projector and screen. Figure 2-6 shows an
installation where poor screen placement allows too much unwanted light to
enter the screen. In Figure 2-7, the screen and the projector are positioned so that
unwanted light is minimized.
6FUHHQ#6L]H ö
,GHDO#5RRP#/LJKWLQJ ö