LIVE May/June 2025 – Web

ROUND TABLE

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Integrators are also starting to use simulation tools in the planning phase to anticipate and resolve potential challenges before installation begins. Joel St-Denis Each venue and project is unique and has its own complexities. So selecting the right projector for a given project requires close evaluation of the criteria, including budget, throw distance, resolution and available space, which will all help narrow down to the most suitable models. For example, if space is especially tight, a high-brightness 1DLP laser projector would be a great option, while a venue featuring ambient light might require a high-brightness projector to ensure that content remains vivid. If rear-screen projection is required, then a hybrid laser phosphor and RGB pure laser projector would be an ideal fit. We would always encourage integrators and designers to reach out to us – we’re here to help and can point you in the right direction.

additional creativity from integrators, but projection manufacturers contribute by designing smaller projectors and ultra-short-throw lenses with plenty of shift. That allows customers to place the projector very close to the projection surface where they can also be hidden in ceilings, less visible places or enclosures to improve the spatial aesthetics. Lastly, to reduce installation complexity for our partners and integrators we also work very hard to cater for smoother workflows. These efforts focus on improving various aspects, such as reducing projector weight, providing better software tools to do projector set-up and AV-over-IP developments. Hartmut Kulessa Solutions include high-brightness projectors, ultra-short- throw lenses and advanced image correction software. Projection can now be deployed in tight or unconventional spaces thanks to the various flexible lens options and smart mounting systems.

hat emerging trends – such as ultra short throw, 8K resolution and holographic projection – will redefine the industry in the next five to ten years? Hartmut Kulessa Several key trends are poised to redefine projection. Ultra-short-throw tech continues to evolve, unlocking new possibilities for immersive and space-conscious applications. Integration of embedded media servers into projectors can reduce the need for external equipment, saving space, cabling and energy. On the connectivity side, the transition from traditional AV to IP- based standards like ST 2110 and IPMX is accelerating, enabling more flexible and scalable system design. Joel St-Denis A trend in the market is technology that allows partners to do more with less. For example, 1DLP projectors approaching the brightness that was previously only achievable with 3DLP projection, at a lower price point. Christie’s new Jazz Series projectors offer an enhanced 1DLP range with up to 23,750 lumens, all from a remarkably small chassis weighing less than 30kg. We expect this trend to continue, with projectors becoming smaller, brighter and more efficient. We’ve also seen more projects move to short-throw or ultra-short-throw lenses, allowing projector installation in tighter spaces that were previously hard to address. Yann Verhellen Ultra-short-throw lenses already have great momentum for applications ranging from live event and immersive to corporate spaces. 8K is on the horizon, with the first 8K-ready platforms, like our QDX, seeing the light of day. But today, a large share of the market isn’t even on 4K. In some cases, it’s not required or adds little value, but in demanding areas like simulation we’re seeing faster adoption of 4K+ resolutions in the coming years. We’re also seeing increased demand for RGB projection to produce a wider colour gamut and enhance experiences, which our upcoming QDX-native 4K RGB line will address. While we are not quite ready for Star Wars -style holographic projection, that doesn’t mean we aren’t breaking through many technological barriers. In Digital Cinema, for instance, Barco has introduced its proprietary light-steering technology with a new series of HDR projectors, improving image contrast by directing light to areas where it’s needed. This is a true upgrade for what can be accomplished with projection.

A trend in the market is tech that allows partners to do more with less. For example, 1DLP projectors that approach the brightness previously only achievable with 3DLP projection, at a lower price point”

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