NEC Display Solutions of America recently announced the release of a new 18,000-lumen digital cinema projector to complete their latest NC series of modular laser projectors. The NEC NC1802ML joins the already released NC2402ML and NC2002ML. These new models provide movie exhibitors a versatile and future-proof solution, because the NC Series provides an option to replace the laser light module in the projector head, making installation, maintenance and projector upgrades extremely simple.

All three laser lamps are DCI-Certified. The NC1802ML uses blue laser, while the NC2402ML and the NC2002ML feature RB laser and phosphor technology. All three models can show 100 percent of the digital cinema color space (DCI), have native 2K (2048×1080) resolution, and deliver up to a 50,000-hour lifetime. With the modular design, operators are able get more out of their investment by using these projectors in a variety of spaces for different things., such as 2D and 3D movies, corporate events and alternative content.

With the entire NC Series, 3D content utilizes the projector’s full 2K resolution utilizing NEC’s triple flash technology for smooth motion. There are direct selection buttons for eight stored projector configurations, and these models can be controlled from an optional touchscreen. The NC Series includes an auto-brightness control, which maintains constant brightness by adjusting the laser power as it ages. There is a complete line of optional bayonet-style lenses with electronic zoom, focus and lens shift. And finally, the NC series incorporates memory functions for lens position and light output to simplify frequent operation.

Available connectivity includes a built-in 2TB screen server, 2 x 3G SDI Interfaces, HDMI interface for alternative content, advanced network and built-in GPIO functions with NAS support. The innovative design of this series also extends to its installation. The units feature an internal liquid chiller, removing the need for an external cooling system and thereby making it easier to install into tight spaces.

The NC1802ML with the 18,000-lumen module is now shipping, joining the interchangeable 20,000- and 24,000-lumen modules (NC2402ML and the NC2002ML) which are already available.

Analyst firm PMA Research follows the display market, including the Digital Cinema projector market. While PMA Research has forecast just a slight uptick in unit sales for 2021 – 2023 as exhibitors replace their early Digital Cinema projector installations, revenues are forecast to increase more substantially, as these exhibitors transition from traditional lamp-based projectors to models with laser-light sources.