When considering the total cost of living of a laser projector, it is when it is easily seen that it provides a lower total cost. It is at this point that the different institutions in Latin America begin to focus.
By AVI LATINOAMÉRICA
Laser technology is the latest development that projector manufacturers are implementing in new references, especially high-end, to improve image quality and equipment performance. Each manufacturer has added different features to differentiate their products from the others that are on the market.
There are several benefits that laser technology brings to projectors. Experts do not hesitate to ensure that the main one is the cost of operation and maintenance, since by not having to change lamps every so often or having to wait for the heating of the equipment to have all its capacity or cooling to store it, it becomes much easier for the end user. Without neglecting the lower energy consumption compared to projectors with lamp.
In addition, its durability stands out, which can exceed 20 thousand hours or 10 years of operation, as well as a maximum level of brightness. At this point there is a discussion in the industry, about whether laser projectors should be measured with Ansi lumens or by the accumulated luminous pontence.
In this particular article we will talk about the laser technology that Panasonic is using in its projectors. René Araúz, from Panasonic Latin America, explained in detail the benefits of the laser in the company's new projectors and how they have been implemented in the region.
AVI: What is laser technology for projectors?
René Araúz: In specific technical terms, Panasonic's Solid Shine laser technology is based on two powerful and discreet solid-state laser light source modules, which feature fault-protected circuits and a heat-resistant phosphor wheel. In results, this technology provides high brightness and resolution limiting the degradation of images over time, even with constant operation 24/7.
AVI: What are the main differences that are found with the technology that has been used until now?
René Araúz: The biggest and main difference that exists against the previous technology is the presence of lamps as part of the product to create the projection. By eliminating this element, the projector manages to improve certain aspects such as the quick on or off of it, the flexibility of being able to install freely in 360 degrees, and lower maintenance costs by not needing to replace the lamp when reaching a certain level of hours.
AVI: What are the main benefits of laser technology for projectors?
René Araúz: By adopting laser technology, users of this type of projector can immediately notice many benefits compared to the lamp projectors with which they used to be operated, such as minimal disruption in their operations, less damage to the environment, and more comfortable conditions that lead to greater safety and reduced maintenance costs, for example.
AVI: What market segments are laser projectors aimed at?
René Araúz: Laser projectors are in a wide range of luminosity, from 3,500 lumens and soon up to 30,000 lumens, which makes them ideal for a wide variety of uses. Mainly, this technology based on a laser light source has been recommended and accepted in the sectors of education, museums, galleries, and rental and event companies.
AVI: How long ago did Panasonic include laser technology in its projectors?
René Araúz: Panasonic introduced its first laser light source-based projector almost five years ago, starting with a luminosity of 3,500 lm. Today, the company is preparing to introduce projectors of such technology up to 30,000 lm of brightness to the market soon. This makes Panasonic one of the largest promoters of technology worldwide, leading technology change in different market niches.
AVI: What characterizes Panasonic's laser projectors with those of its competition?
René Araúz: For Panasonic it's not just that the light source is laser; in these projectors, other unique technologies have been incorporated for high performance. These technologies include Panasonic's original developments in a reliable phosphorus device, an efficient cooling system, a dust-resistant design that protects the entire optical block, and a maintenance-free design. This leads Panasonic projectors to deliver amazing quality, long-lasting reliability and flexible installation.
AVI: Like all new technology, it always comes at a high cost during its launch, how expensive are laser projectors compared to the previous technology?
René Araúz: Laser technology projectors are certainly more expensive at the initial purchase level when compared to lamp-based ones. The variation really is different depending on brightness, technical specifications and other attributes.
However, you have to see the investment beyond just the initial purchase, since buying a piece of equipment such as a projector involves other subsequent expenses of parts, maintenance, performance, among others. When we consider the total cost of living of the product is when we easily see that a laser projector gives us a lower total cost, and this is what the different institutions in Latin America begin to focus on.
Success story
In Latin America, laser technology in projectors has been very well received. Colombia is one of the countries that stands out for the greatest interest in the use of new laser projectors, for scenarios as diverse as educational institutions and museums.
René Araúz said that "Panasonic has had great success in introducing laser technology in Latin America. In Colombia we have a presence in universities and museums, such as the Universidad de los Andes, Colegio Nueva Granada, Parque Explora and the National Museum. We have also had a good reach in the Uruguayan market recently. The results in all have been extremely positive, with high levels of satisfaction with overall performance."
At the Universidad de los Andes there are more than 150 laser projectors that have been installed in the last two years, ranging from 3,500 to 6,500 lumens; in the Museum of the Caribbean are six units of 3,500; in the Explora Park there are twelve units of 3,500 and in the Nueva Granada school there were four projectors of 6,500. Additionally, the Colombian stand at the Expo Milan 2015 fair, there were 23 laser units of 6,500, all Panasonic.
"In total, only in Colombia, and only these four institutions are around 170 units installed. In general, considering only two years to here, there are more than 200 projectors installed in the country with Panasonic laser technology, although the laser technology has more time than having been presented by the company, "concluded the Panasonic representative.
