Panasonic Connect, a leading audiovisual technology provider, has launched two new product series at ISE 2024 which will enhance immersive experiences.
The RQ7 1-Chip DLP projector series makes immersive experiences more accessible, while the ET-FMP50 series of media processors simplifies workflows and enriches the visual experience.
ISE 2024, the leading AV and systems integration show, is taking place at Fira Barcelona until 2 February. Attendees can discover a wide range of technologies from Panasonic Connect at stand #3J500.
RQ7 Series 1-Chip DLP Projector
The new RQ7 Series 1-Chip DLP Projector will be available from Q3 2024, and provides more versatility and a wider range of projection-mapping options for museums, galleries, and Location-Based Entertainment (LBE) venues.
It offers an extended 4K lineup, and at 7,500 lumens is positioned between the FRQ60 Series, at 6,000 lumens, and the REQ12 Series, at 12,000 lumens. Additionally, this is the first Panasonic projector under 8,000 lumens to support Intel SDM, making it simple to integrate with AVoIP and current infrastructure.
Hartmut Kulessa, European marketing manager for visual system solutions at Panasonic Connect, says: “With increasingly high visitor expectations for immersive experiences, integrators are seeking a streamlined 4K DLP solution that delivers emotionally engaging visual performance and a simplified workflow in complex production environments.
“The RQ7 Series 1-Chip DLP Projector is 29% smaller and 16% lighter than the existing RZ790/RZ690 models for efficient installation, delivering smooth, detailed 4K resolution while enhancing red luminance and contrast performance.”
Improved sustainability
Using Panasonic’s Quad Pixel Drive technology and a 0.65-inch (16:9) DLP chip, the new projector RQ7/RQ6 can produce 4K images with fine details, such as brush strokes. It can project 240Hz/1080p content with little motion blur and latency of 8ms or less, and it is compatible with the firm’s optional ET-SWR10 Real-time Tracking Projection-Mapping System. This enables digital content and analogue motion to be combined within interactive attractions.
Enhanced Dynamic Contrast increases visual impact, vibrant red tones are available with Rich Color Enhancer, and a new Museum Mode improves image quality. Point-based black-level adjustment allows for smooth blending on curved screens when mapping. Video content and widescreen 21:9 conferencing software layouts are also supported.
The RQ7 Series’ small design and compact packaging minimise resources and carbon impact while being easy to transport, store, and install. The Intel SDM-ready slot for optional proprietary or third-party function boards (such as the upcoming Panasonic ET-SBFMP10 media processor) enables it to integrate smoothly into system infrastructure.
Existing DLE Series lenses for Panasonic 1-Chip DLP projectors are supported by the RQ7 Series, resulting in lower startup costs and improved sustainability. The lens mount strength has also been increased, removing the need for an optional lens bracket when using the DLE020 Ultra-Short Throw Zoom Lens. This also allows for lens shift without the bracket. In addition, Geo Pro preactivated upgrade kits automate edge blending with a camera.
The RQ7 Series provides stable and environmentally friendly operation. Its optical engine and laser light source module provide excellent dust protection, meeting the IP5X Dust Protected (IEC 60529) standard. The enhanced cooling system removes the need for a filter, which minimises waste and allows for 20,000 hours of maintenance-free operation.
Multi-Laser Drive Engine reduces brightness loss in the event of diode failure, and the Backup Input switches to a backup signal without screen-blanking. Furthermore, ECO Mode decreases energy consumption while considerably increasing operating life.
ET-FMP50 Series media processors
Panasonic Connect has also announced the ET-FMP50 Series, which consists of three media processors that have been designed specifically for multi-projection. The series includes manual or camera-based automatic warping and blending, as well as media playback functionalities. A range of user-friendly capabilities optimises workflow, while reliability is improved within a Panasonic multi-projection ecosystem.
The series includes two box-type devices, the ET-FMP50 and FMP20, which will be available from Q2 2024. ET-SBFMP10 is an Intel® SDM specification slot-compatible function board, which will be available from Q4 this year.
Kulessa comments: “With integrators building immersive attractions under time and budget constraints, the FMP50 Series addresses the need for simplicity and reliability in complex multi-projector environments, providing a holistic media distribution solution for Panasonic projection ecosystems. It reduces the need for a high-end media server, simplifies cabling and installation complexity, enhances interoperability, and elevates the visual experience for guests.”
Highly accurate effects
The FMP50 and FMP20 feature a compact form factor and may be installed near projectors to decrease cabling or in a regular rack with an optional rack mounting kit. They support a 3840 × 2160p content canvas over 4x HDMI. Multiple devices can be synced to link fleets of all sizes. In addition, 3840 x 2160p signals can be decoded by placing the SBFMP10 into a compatible projector’s Intel SDM-ready slot.
Each model includes built-in manual or camera-based automatic geometry adjustment, edge blending, and black level adjustment for flat or curved surfaces. Users can troubleshoot problems simply and receive support from a common manufacturer as the media processors have been optimised for smooth interoperability with Panasonic projectors.
They are also compatible with Panasonic’s Multi Monitoring & Control Software for remote status checks, and both of the box-type devices have low power requirements. In addition, content playback can be automated to a predefined schedule.
The FMP50 Series offers precision which reflects the projector’s built-in and software-based adjustment. Pixel-based, rather than block-based, adjustment prevents uneven blends and any loss in post-adjustment image quality. The automated camera-based features can be accessed without a license.
Users can produce highly accurate immersive visual effects with the series’ advanced line-masking and free-shape features. In the future, Panasonic Connect intends to release firmware updates that will improve the devices’ capabilities by adding features like auto colour balance/uniformity calibration and dome and 3D object mapping.
Pixel-by-pixel adjustment makes it possible to make more exact and thorough changes. Consequently, the quality of the post-adjustment images is improved, leading to a smoother finish that more precisely depicts the smallest of details.
The Linux-based FMP50 Series has memory ranging from 4TB to 512 GB 3. This allows for continuous playback of high-quality video at up to 300 Mbps. Each of the products can decode H.265 and H.264 formats, while the FMP50 additionally supports the HAP 4 codec. Broadcast-quality video signals to be transmitted over LAN in a cost-effective way thanks to NDI compatibility.
In the future, Panasonic Connect intends to release firmware updates for the devices that will allow for remote operation and predictive maintenance. The firm’s goal is to continue creating simplified AV systems and workflows for the LBE industry and fixed installation immersive experiences. It plans to develop flexible new system functionality, which allows clients to update only those features that they need.
Panasonic Connect recently revealed details of its new line of media processors, and explained how this will deliver efficient multi-projection with locally deployed computing power and simplified operation.
