ISE 2023: Panasonic Unveils Latest DLP Projectors, Premium Displays, and Touch Screen Displays

Panasonic also introduced new KAIROS live production solutions

In addition to expanding its KAIROS live-production platform with two new Core mainframes and enhanced software, Panasonic Connect Europe unveiled its latest 4K 1-chip DLP projectors, 4K UHD LCD displays, and 4K touch displays at ISE 2023.

Next Generation of KAIROS Live-Production Platform – Available in 2023

Panasonic is growing the KAIROS ecosystem by adding two new powerful and quiet Core mainframes, the AT-KC200 and AT-KC2000 – expanding the platform’s already innovative GPU processing to support larger and more complex productions and enabling it to deliver rich content to a higher quantity of larger screens than ever before.

The new KC200 expands connectivity options and processing power beyond the existing KC100, and the KC2000 offers the most capacity yet, doubling the current KC1000 for number of sources and outputs, increasing processing performance by minimum 30% and clip player capacity by 500% totaling 900GB. The new 4RU chassis for both models features high airflow at lower fan speeds, significantly reducing noise and allowing the platform to be placed directly next to the action.

Both new Cores will be available in 2023 and the associated new software will deliver many new features and increased functionality, including enhanced audio support, 3rd party alliance integrations, deeper system log support and GUI operational improvements.

CLICK HERE for more SVG coverage of the latest KAIROS live-production enhancements.

Next-Gen 1-Chip DLP Projectors – Available Q2/Q3 2023

The next generation PT-REQ12 Series (4K) and PT-REZ12 Series (WUXGA) 1-Chip DLP laser projectors are designed to deliver new production possibilities and simplify workflow for the Location Based Entertainment industry. With up to 12,000lm brightness, 4K resolution and 240Hz projection capability with minimal latency, the two new Series are ideal for museums, immersive experiences and temporary installations in rental & staging.

As the first 1-Chip DLP projector to feature Quad Pixel Drive, Panasonic’s 2-axis pixel-shifting technology, the REQ12 Series reproduces authentic 4K images that are deep, smooth, and detailed. It supports 240Hz projection for smooth, grid-less images with a ​minimal latency of 6ms or less. It’s also designed to work with the optional ET-SWR10 Real-Time Tracking Projection Mapping System for projection onto fast-moving objects, enriching interactive applications and stage performances.

Newly optimized lenses improve native contrast performance while evolved Dynamic Contrast with new scene-analysis circuitry better recognizes light and dark areas of the image, bringing each scene vividly to life. Users can now unlink black-level adjustment from geometric adjustment to reduce black-level bumps in overlaps outside the image display area. It’s also possible to adjust black-border shape to screen curvature, using up to 17 control points, to ensure thoroughly seamless projection over multiple screens.

To simplify set-up, both Series have additional functionality, interfaces, and options for a smoother workflow. A new lens line-up with a minimum throw-ratio of 0.308:1 and a maximum throw-ratio of 3.38:1 now features powered peripheral focus adjustment via remote control. Lens-shift adjustment range has been increased, making it easier to adjust in different spaces.

To adapt, scale and expand projector connectivity, an Intel SDM-specified slot integrates optional proprietary or third-party function boards. This includes the opportunity to add a DIGITAL LINK terminal board, 12G-SDI terminal board, and Wireless Presentation System PressIT receiver board.

Additional ease of use functionality includes the ability to save preferred test patterns to the projector and calibrate using the client’s content without source connection. Preactivated upgrade kits for Geometry Manager Pro can further expand software functionality and automate edge-blending and calibration via camera, saving time and effort on site.

These Series are the first 1-Chip DLP projectors to feature hermetically sealed optical engines with all liquid-cooling, enabling 20,000 hours of maintenance-free projection. The stylish new cabinet design is both compact and light – the projectors weigh just 26kg without lens for easy installation. To prevent interruptions during the show, Backup Input switches to a secondary signal without screen-blanking if the primary is disrupted, while Multi Laser Drive Engine prevents brightness loss in the unlikely event of diode failure.

The PT-REQ12 Series with 8000lm, 10000lm and 12000lm models will be available in Q2 2023. The PT-REZ12 Series with 8000lm, 10000lm, and 12000lm models will be available in Q3 2023.

Premium Displays – Available from December 2023

To meet growing demand for premium-level professional business displays that can cut through bright lighting conditions, Panasonic Connect Europe has announced its latest generation range of 4K UHD LCD Displays – the SQ2H Series. Ranging in seven screen sizes, from 43-98 inches, these reliable 24/7 displays are ideal for boardrooms, meeting and learning spaces, as well as for digital signage in retail and public information areas.

The high resolution 4K panel (3840 x 2160 pixels), offering four times more pixels than Full HD, delivers realistic and detailed images with a high brightness of 700 cd/m² that will stand out in bright environments like entrance halls, lobbies or brightly lit meeting spaces. An anti-glare haze treatment of 25% reduces the reflection of ambient light and vastly improves visibility in all environments.

With sizes suitable for compact spaces such as meeting booths up to conference rooms with large numbers of people, the displays can also be used vertically. The ability to tilt 20 degrees forward and backward makes them suitable for installation in a variety of places.

For ultimate flexibility and scalability, the SQ2H Series is equipped with the Intel Smart Display Module (Intel SDM) specification slot as standard for a wide range of use cases. For example, supporting applications such as digital signage and broadcasts, using a built-in PC, terminal board or wireless presentation system. The Displays are also equipped with USB media player functionality to display 4K content, and can operate in standalone mode, serving as high-quality digital signage.

The SQ2H Series is equipped with various interfaces such as HDMI in (x3), DIGITAL OUT (HDMI Type A x1), PC in (Mini D-sub x1), USB Type A (x2), and USB Type C (x1), compatible with DisplayPort Alternate mode and power delivery of up to 60W. Each main unit has 20W of built-in speakers (10W+10W), removing the need for external speakers for audio content and allowing the displays to be installed in tight spaces.

The SQ2H Series will be available from December 2023 and will join a wide line up of 4K UHD LCD displays for corporate, education and digital signage applications.

Touch Screen Displays – Available Q1 of CY 2023

Addressing the growing need for intuitive to use instant collaboration technologies, Panasonic Connect Europe has expanded its range of 4K touch displays with the introduction of the best-in-class EQ2-PCAP Series. With six screen options, ranging from 43-86 inches, these premium interactive multi-touch professional displays with Capacitive Touch Technology make collaboration in meetings, brainstorm sessions and classrooms effortless and productive. This new Series complements the existing comprehensive range of Panasonic InGlass and Infrared touch displays, ensuring there is a suitable touch screen solution for any requirement and budget.

The new EQ2-PCAP Series delivers incredible touch accuracy with up to 10-point multi-touch capability using bare or gloved hands. Combined with the 500cd/m2 brightness display with anti-glare treatment for high visibility 4K viewing, these devices are perfectly designed for inspirational group working. Content can be easily displayed in portrait or landscape mode, with a 20-degree tilt angle, providing the freedom to present information as you wish. Whether used in meeting rooms, classrooms or for any type of signage application, the display is designed for 18 hours continuous operation and the bezel-less design makes it very easy to wipe away any dust, dirt and germs from the display surface.

For ultimate flexibility with connectivity and a clean look without set-top-boxes or cables, the EQ2-PCAP Series is equipped with the Intel SDM specification slot supporting applications such as wireless presentation systems, and digital signage and broadcasts using a terminal board.

USB devices can be connected to the display via a USB Type A cable and controlled using a PC connected to the EQ2-PCAP via the USB Type C port. This functionality is ideal for a simple and quick start to video conferences. If a camera or speakerphone is permanently connected to the display in a conference room, a user can just plug in their PC and immediately control all devices to start the meeting.

The Series is equipped with HDMITM (x 3), PC and USB Type C video input terminals. LAN or serial control is possible, and simultaneous control and batch management can be performed via the network. The displays support LAN control with AMX or Crestron ConnectedTM. The Series also supports Screen Transfer, which enables a PC to stream content to up to 64 displays connected with a wired LAN.

The Panasonic EQ2-PCAP Series will be available Q1 of CY 2023.