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Welcome to another edition of rAVe! Enjoy the issue! Gary Kayye, CTS Would You Like A Projector To Go With That Lamp? By S. Nick D'Alessio Fast forward to 2007. High performance front projectors producing over a thousand lumens are selling for under $500. Prices have quickly fallen and brightness has more than doubled. No longer a luxury, projectors have become an office equipment commodity, even for small businesses. Trainers, sales people, engineers, and even home users are buying projectors. However, there is a dirty little secret lurking in the industry that many folks do not like to talk about – the cost of the replacement lamps. Even though the retail price of the front projector has dropped dramatically, lamp prices have scarcely budged. At around $300 to $400, they now rival the cost of the entire projector. Why, you wonder? It's pretty simple really – capitalism. Lamps have traditionally been viewed as a key component of the projector; much like what the cathode ray tube (CRT) was for the old-school television or computer monitor. Some lamp re-sellers out there are purportedly selling tens of millions of dollars worth of lamps each year. That is easy to imagine, with the front projection market alone amounting to over 5 million units in 2006. If you figure one replacement lamp per year at $300 per unit, that comes out to a really big number. If you study the lamp supply chain and add up lamp component costs, you soon realize the retail margins exceed 300 percent in some cases. Let's be clear, the lamp manufacturers are not the ones driving these prices. In fact, they have added plenty of capacity in their factories so we won't incur the lamp shortages we experienced in the early 2000's. If we as an industry want to promote the growth of the consumer and small business projection market, the projector lamp paradigm needs to shift to a standards based consumable model, just like, say, headlight lamps for cars. People don't care what car headlight replacement lamps cost because it doesn't cost hundreds of dollars. Adjusting the cost of the replacement projector lamp to a consumable commodity will allow the market to grow by removing this adverse cost factor. With LED efficacy now hitting numbers like 160 lumens per watt in the lab and other solid state illumination breakthroughs, high pressure discharge lamps will eventually approach obsolescence like the CRT, anyway. If the projector industry does not proactively address this issue, the "underground" lamp market will. Is there an obvious solution? Let's take a closer look. If you haven't done so already, search the Internet and your favorite online auction site for replacement lamps matching your name brand projector products. You'll find an aftermarket lamp business filling the needs of many A/V dealers, big box retailers, and consumers who are looking for lower cost lamp alternatives. "What?" you say. "You mean those aren't all OEM lamps being sold out there?" You got it! Some call them "counterfeit" lamps and others use the term "generic replacement" lamp. This "aftermarket" is starting to resemble the re-built CRT or auto parts industries where non-OEM parts are commonly used. Even some big box retailers are servicing their extended lamp warranties for RPTVs with non-OEM replacement lamps to keep their cost down. This is not blasphemy. It's the free market economy at work. Let's run with the auto parts analogy for a moment. Who is tracking how many hours one gets on a set of car headlights or worrying about the replacement cost when one burns out? Not something that keeps you up at night? Right, you replace the lamp and move on. Granted, projector lamps are more complex and I do not mean to over simplify the physics and engineering required to ignite and reliably drive a projector lamp. However, the point remains the same. What are we going to do in the projector business? To serve the customers' needs, we need to standardize projector lamps and support an economically appropriate replacement parts model. The major lamp manufacturers are not set up to build minuscule quantities for legacy products. These orders could be turned over to capable third party lamp manufacturers. Heresy, you say? How many of you out there have bought auto parts some place other than the dealer? Other industries have experienced the same thing – and have adapted. When you purchase a graphics adapter for your PC, there is high confidence that you will be able to plug it into a standardized slot on the motherboard and that it will work. This did not prevent the graphics adapter companies of the world from innovating, competing, and thriving. Standardization in projection lamp space is not a new idea. In fact, it has been happening little by little for the last few years thanks to the efforts of groups like the DLP Lamp Standardization Workgroup, moderated by Texas Instruments and supported by major companies in the industry. This effort is standardizing the electrical and mechanical interfaces for the more commonly used projector lamp systems. More players need to join this effort and support standardization in this space. It will open the door for new lamp providers to enter the market and allow the current lamp R&D guys to focus their efforts on developing new technologies. Would you like a projector to go with that lamp? Let's rephrase: How many spare lamps would you like to go with that projector? How about a two-pack to go? Lower lamp prices will remove barriers that many customers have to purchasing projectors. This will increase projector technology adoption and increase the market size for everyone. S. Nick D'Alessio is a Technology Strategist working in Dell's Digital Home Group in the Office of the CTO (Chief Technology Officer). An 18 year display industry veteran, he researches, develops, and leads Dell's projection and related display architectures from initial concept to the product development stage. He is currently finishing his MBA at St. Edwards University in Austin, TX. He presently holds four US patents.
Thanks to our sponsor D-Tools, worldwide leader in easy-to-use, highly accurate system design software. System Integration just got easier! Register Today & Save! Time is running out, early bird discount registration ends July 11, 2007! Take advantage of the hundreds of dollars you will save when you register early. You're able to receive discounts on hundreds of education offerings, the tradeshow floor, the golf outing, and your award banquet ticket. Click here to download the 2007 registration brochure or register now at www.cedia.org/expo.
CEDIA Introduces e-Learning… Beginning early July CEDIA University launched its newest addition – e-Learning. The following e-Learning courses were introduced: Take advantage of the introductory pricing: $97 member / $147 non-member (per 3.0 CEU course) $57 member / $107 non-member (per 1.5 CEU course) For additional information visit www.cedia.org/education/elearning.php or for questions please email elearning@cedia.org. CEDIA Adds Second EXPO Trade Show for 2008 "Feedback from CEDIA members indicates that there is strong support for a second show that draws from a more regional electronic systems contractor base," said Ken Smith, president of CEDIA. "Our business changes and grows so quickly that focusing the industry's attention on key issues, such as new technologies and products, design trends, and education and certification more than once a year is not only a good idea, it's essential for the professional development of our members." This show is likely to be a success, first, because the CEDIA show and market are growing like crazy, and second, because it could well draw away those who normally hit the January CES show in Vegas in search of custom install products. For more information, go to http://www.cedia.org False LCD Plants: A Growing Problem in Russia If you live in a booming economy where it is hard for importers to legally bring in products in quantity, what happens? An illegal market forms… Officials stopped a production department in a plant that produced LCD TV from illegally imported parts, charging the company managers for contraband and smuggled goods. And it's not the first time. Recently there was another case with illegal TV production in Kaliningrad area. A daughter firm of Radioimport CJSC produced faked TV with brands of Panasonic, Sharp, Daewoo etc. Those TVs actually were bought by the Eldorado retail shops (you know, the huge chain of 500 shops that Dixons was thinking of buying?) and were sold to customers (victims!) throughout Russia.
Majoring in Internet TV Meanwhile, two new Internet TV channels will be run by Ravensbourne broadcast students, who will create video content at the college. It will be available for public viewing through their Ravensbourne TV channel, while content only available to students would be accessed through the student channel, RaveOnAir. This is among the first time anywhere in the world that Internet TV management and production has been added to formal academic courses, according to the announcement. The curriculum managers also say that course graduates are already being offered employment opportunities with Narrowstep and the company's clients, demonstrating the dynamic growth in the IPTV industry. For more information, go to http://www.narrowstep.com/default.aspx Optoma Adds Projectors to Home Theater Lineup This model is specified at 2500 lumens and 10,000:1 contrast ratio. Using the optional BX-AL133 Anamorphic Lens/Sled Kit from Optoma, the HD81-LV can deliver fully automated 2.35:1 widescreen. It uses TI's DarkChip3 DLP chipset and weighs about 10 pounds. MSRP is $7,999. Optoma also has a new sub-$3,000 1080p home theater projector, the HD80. This is also a DLP projector and also boasts a 10,000:1 contrast ratio. It is specified at 1300 lumens and uses TI's BrilliantColor technology. Pricing is MSRP of $2,999. For more information, go to http://www.optomausa.com/projector_home.asp Planar Announces 3500-Lumen XGA DLP Projector For more information, go to http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=111133&p=irol-newsArticle&t=Regular&id=1016915& Toshiba Announces Largest REGZA Models Ever With the new model additions, Toshiba REGZA models will now be available in sizes including 26", 32", 37", 42", 46/7", 52" and 57". Toshiba says all REGZA models incorporate key Toshiba technologies including PixelPure3G 14-bit internal digital video processing for 12 bit output and DynaLight dynamic backlight. They also are housed in the company's high-gloss black cabinetry (differentiated by series) with a SoundStrip speaker system. Pricing ranges from $799 to $3,999 with the pricing for the 57-inch TBD. For more information, go to http://www.tacp.toshiba.com/
"It will spawn a new category for the premium end of the market," Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America Vice President of Marketing and Product Development Frank DeMartin told the Times. SID says that last April, the company showed its first 52-in. laser TV at the National Dealer Line Show in California. SID also says that "Mitsubishi praised the set for having 1.8 times the color gamut of liquid-crystal display (LCD) TV, a lifetime of 20,000 hours, and a smaller footprint and lighter-weight form than LCD or plasma sets." For more information, go to the article by the Society for Information Displays, http://www.informationdisplay.org/newsarticle.cfm?newsArt=news63 A previous New York Times article about Mitsubishi's laser TVs is at: http://www.nytimes.com
SurgeX Introduces Flat Panel Surge Protector/Power Conditioner For more information, go to http://www.surgex.com/press/press062007_flatPakSA82.html Panamax Expands MAX In-Wall Series With Remote Display Models The company says the new MAX In-Wall Powerkit-Pro provides a noise-free, code-compliant extension of Panamax filtration and protection to remotely located devices, such as plasma displays, LCDs, and projectors. It is designed as a safer and more attractive alternative to running an unsightly extension cord from the component rack to the video output. The Powerkit-Pro accommodates optional signal line modules for a professional finish with additional EMI/RFI noise filtration built into the outlet receptacles. Where it is not practical to run an AC line from the rack to the remote display location, the MAX In-Wall Power-Pro can use any branch circuit to deliver safe power to the remote display in a safety agency approved, code-compliant manner. The 15-amp Power-Pro offers two AC outlets with Level 1 EMI/RFI noise filtration, while thermal fusing, overvoltage protection, and catastrophic surge circuitry protect from power surges and voltage transients. The MAX In-Wall Dual Signal Bay lets you connect signal lines from the source device to the display device when running cables within walls. The Dual Signal Bay accommodates two blank module inserts with pass-through plugs or two In-Wall signal protection modules and fits into many two-gang outlet brackets. The unit features a full metal housing and enlarged faceplate to accommodate oversize wall cutouts and a 14-AWG solid-wire connection for bonding/grounding to In-Wall AC units. The Powerkit-Pro will be available at an MSRP of $299.95, the Power-Pro at an MSRP of $99.95, and the Dual Signal Bay at an MSRP of $29.95. For more information, go to http://www.panamax.com/pdf/Panamax_Expands_Max_In-Wall_Series.pdf Panasonic to Introduce 4x Write-Once Blu-ray Discs In conjunction with the launch of 4x BD drives, the new discs have the capability of 4x speed writing and reading. Panasonic says it is the first company to announce the market introduction of 4x BD-R Discs with this announcement. Panasonic says the new Discs offer extremely low error rate thanks to the newly developed film forming technology which minimizes dust generated in the sputtering process. The error rate is reduced to 1/10 that of a conventional Disc, ensuring high reliability and a high quality recording. Panasonic will announce more details, such as pricing and models of the drives, at later dates. For more information, go to http://www.panasonic.com/flash.asp Universal Remote Control Launches Home Theater Systems Remote The MX-810 uses RF addressability and a bright, color LCD display. The company says it's so flexible that the programming allows custom installers to put any command on any LCD page, and fully personalize the screen's iconography for any and every user. The RF capability also avoids direct pointing and line of site issues and each one can control components up to 100 feet away, even controlling components in cabinets or behind doors. The MX-810 is PC-powered, and programmed using a Windows-compatible computer with a USB port. An installer can set up the remote by connecting a PC, then following the onscreen instructions. The MX-810 can also be customized with a broad array of graphic "themes," including personal graphics provided by the remote's owner. Once programmed, the MX-810's color screen labels the six adjacent buttons with whatever functions are needed at the moment. The labels for the buttons change based on what the user is watching or listening to. If a user selects "Watching TV," he or she will see a list of buttons useful for watching TV. If a user selects "DVD," the buttons will control the DVD player. The MX-810's 32-megabit flash memory can customize controls for up to 24 activities on eight LCD pages for each of 24 different devices, for a total of 384 pages. The MX-810 Pro Wizard Remote Control is available now at a suggested retail price of $399. For more information, go to http://www.universalremote.com/ KEF Home Audio with No Strings Attached The KEF wireless system, designed to fit a variety of applications, comes in three flexible configurations to make surround speakers wireless. The KEF "Universal Wireless" system (two receivers and a transmitter) can transform any traditional speaker system into a wireless setup. A KEF wireless kit has been specifically designed to fit the KHT5005.2 speakers, so existing owners can also purchase a wireless kit to upgrade their current setups to wireless (two receivers and a transmitter). Finally, consumers can purchase a complete KHT5005.2W 5.1 system (two receivers and a transmitter, KHT5005.2 speaker system, including the HTB2 subwoofer). In order to achieve audiophile-grade sound, KEF has developed a leading-edge 2.4GHz wireless transmission technology that KEF says uses an advanced error-protection and sophisticated adaptive frequency-hopping to ensure an interference-free signal. This proprietary technology is pre-emptive and will change channels automatically to a pre negotiated frequency (within the best available band) before any errors start to occur. So CD quality audio won't be affected by microwave ovens, cordless phones, or LAN routers. For more information, go to http://www.kef.com/ Well, that's it for this edition of rAVe! Thank you for spending time with me as we muse the industry's happenings. To continue getting my newsletter, or to sign up a friend, click the link below. To send me feedback, don't reply to this newsletter – instead, write to me at gkayye@kayye.com or for editorial: Denise Harrison at dharrison@kayye.com A little about me: Gary Kayye, CTS, founder of Kayye Consulting. Gary Kayye, an audiovisual veteran and columnist, began the widely-read KNews, a premier industry newsletter, in the late 1990s, and created the model for and was co-founder of AV Avenue – which later became InfoComm IQ. Kayye Consulting is a company that is committed to furthering the interests and success of dealers, manufacturers, and other companies within the professional audiovisual industry. Gary Kayye's rAVe was launched in February 2003. The rAVe Home Edition co-sponsored by CEDIA launched in February, 2004. To read more about my background, our staff, and what we do, go to http://www.kayye.com Copyright 2007 – Kayye Consulting – All rights reserved. For reprint policies, contact Kayye Consulting, 400 Meadowmont Village Circle, Suite 425 – Chapel Hill, NC 27517 – 919/969-7501. Email: dharrison@kayye.com Gary Kayye's rAVe contains the opinions of the author only and does not necessarily reflect the opinions of other persons or companies or its sponsors.
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