Yesterday Panasonic announced the PT-DZ21K Series, a compact, 20,000-lumen, 3-chip DLP projector for applications that require extremely high brightness. The series includes the PT-DZ21KU with WUXGA (1920×1200) resolution and 20,000 lumens of brightness; the PT-DS20KU with SXGA+ (1400×1050) resolution and 20,000 lumens of brightness; and the PT-DW17KU with WXGA (1366×768) resolution and 16,500 lumens of brightness. All three use a 2,000-hour lamp, have built-in 3D compatibility and installation flexibility with all sorts of lens options. The PT-DZ21KU Series is built to maximize savings with a maintenance-free Eco Filter with a lifespan of up to 12,000 hours, and low-power consumption of under 2,500 watts.

The combination of four new 465-watt UHM lamps and what the company is calling “Dynamic Iris” allow the projectors to deliver a 10,000:1 contrast ratio. They each include an active shutter system in which the projector can be equipped with an external emitter via the 3D timing signal IN/OUT terminal. For a passive polarized 3D system, frame sequential, side by side and top and bottom formats are supported (as well as a DICOM Simulation mode enabling end-users to view X-ray images).

Basic installation flexibility is provided by a comprehensive optional lens selection that supports a wide range of throw distances. 360-degree installation capability enables projections onto floors and ceilings. The projectors claim high durability with an operating temperature between 32° and 113° Fahrenheit. Flexibility and reliability are further enhanced by the projectors’ capability to handle more than 100 input signals. Several available input terminals include SDIx2, HDMI, DVI-D, LAN (RJ45) and 3D timing signal IN/OUT.

Full specs on all three projectors are here: http://panasonic.net/avc/projector/products/d12000/