Panamorph UH480 - User Manual

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Summary

INTRODUCTION

UH480 BASIC PROJECTION PARAMETERS

Details essential projection parameters like throw distance, throw ratio, and lens shift for optimal image clarity.

SCREEN FORMAT CONSIDERATIONS

Recommends screen aspect ratios (2.40:1) for optimizing constant height imaging performance with various movie formats.

USING AKPro ATTACHMENT KITS

CEILING MOUNT LOCATION GUIDELINES

Provides guidance on selecting the ideal ceiling mount location for projectors, addressing horizontal centering and zoom limits.

ATTACHMENT PLATE DIAGRAM REFERENCE

CONNECTING THE AKPro ATTACHMENT PLATE

Details the process of connecting the projector assembly to the ceiling mount using specific screws, washers, and spacers.

ALTERNATE AKPro ATTACHMENT PLATE METHOD

FINAL ADJUSTMENTS FOR INSTALLATION

The Panamorph Model UH480 is a professional-grade home cinema conversion lens system designed to enhance the viewing experience of high-performance 16:9 projectors, particularly when displaying true widescreen aspect ratios common in major motion pictures. This system aims to optimize constant height imaging performance for various aspect ratios, including 16:9, 1.85:1, and the 2.35:1-2.40:1 range.

Function Description:

The core function of the UH480 lens system is to optically stretch a 16:9 projector's image horizontally when displaying widescreen content (such as 2.35:1 or 2.40:1 aspect ratios). This allows the projector to utilize all its available pixels for the widescreen image, eliminating the black bars typically seen above and below the picture when displaying widescreen content on a 16:9 screen. The system includes the UH480 Lens and either the MTH1 manual transport or the ATH1 automated transport upgrade. These transports allow the lens to be moved into and out of the projector's beam, enabling seamless switching between 16:9 content (lens out) and widescreen content (lens in). The system is designed to be used with a 2.35:1 aspect ratio screen, though a 2.40:1 screen is recommended for optimal all-around fit.

Important Technical Specifications:

Throw Distance: The standard UH480 lens is designed for a throw distance between 12 and 21 feet (3.6M and 6.5M). For the highest pixel-level clarity, especially for 1080 resolution video applications, an ideal range of 14.5 to 17.5 feet (4.4M to 5.3M) is recommended. For significantly higher throw distances where graphic-level performance is needed, an optional correction element may be required.
Throw Ratio: To minimize image distortion (inward bowing of image edges), a throw ratio of at least 1.6 is recommended. The UH480's large aperture can generally work with throw ratios as low as 1.3, provided the beam passes unobstructed. However, lower throw ratios may lead to increased distortion and potential non-uniform image brightness (hot spotting), which might necessitate a curved screen for compensation.
Lens/Image Shift: Horizontal lens/image shift is generally not recommended for adjustments beyond fine-tuning, as it can amplify keystoning when used with the UH480. Vertical lens shift does not impact the use of the UH480, but if used, the UH480 should be tilted to face the approximate center of the screen to ensure symmetric pincushion distortion at the top and bottom of the image.
Mounting System: The MTH1 and ATH1 transports can be mounted directly to ceiling structures or, for simplified installation, to a pre-engineered AKPro Panamorph Attachment Kit (AK), sold separately. The AKPro kits are designed to attach to Chief Manufacturing RPA ceiling mount heads. The RPA mount and associated hardware must be installed to ceiling structural members capable of supporting at least 250 pounds and must be extremely rigid to prevent rocking of the assembly.
Ceiling Mount Location: For optimal imaging, the ideal ceiling mount location for the projector's lens should place it in the horizontal center of the projection screen. The AKPro attachment plates shift the average center of mass by 2" (50mm) toward the left side of the screen (or right if the plate is inverted) from the projector's indicated ceiling mount location. Fine horizontal shift adjustments on the projector or slight projector turning can compensate for this shift, though minor horizontal keystoning may occur.
Attachment Plate Models: There are five different models of AKPro plates: AK8-DR, AK8-3D, AK8S, AK8L, and AK7, each designed for specific projector compatibility.
Support Chains (for larger projectors): Some larger projectors require the use of supporting chains with the AKPro system. The Plate Hook Bag Contents (AK6 only) include 3/16" Chain (6 feet), Chain Ends (4), #8-32 Wire Hook (2), #8-32 Nut (4), #8 Washer (4), and M4 Lock Washer (2). Ceiling hooks (not supplied) capable of supporting 40 pounds or more are required for these chains.

Usage Features:

Plug-and-Play Installation (with AKPro kits): The AKPro attachment kits simplify the installation process, offering a straightforward method for mounting the lens system.
Manual (MTH1) or Automated (ATH1) Transport: Users can choose between a manual transport for lens movement or an automated transport for convenience. The ATH1 requires separate power connection and refers to its own user manual for specific installation instructions.
Optimized for Widescreen Content: The system is specifically designed to maximize the visual quality of widescreen movies by utilizing all projector pixels and eliminating black bars.
Flexible Mounting Options: The transports can be mounted directly to ceiling structures or integrated with AKPro attachment kits, providing flexibility for various home cinema setups.
Final Adjustments: A detailed adjustment process ensures optimal image alignment and performance. This includes:
- Setting horizontal lens shift to neutral and adjusting the ceiling mount to center and square the 16:9 image on the screen, with slight overlap on screen borders.
- Bringing the UH480 Lens into the beam and adjusting its vertical position and tilt to ensure the projector beam passes through the lens center, minimizing pincushion distortion. The lens will typically be below the projector lens center and slightly tilted downward.
- Adjusting the rotation of the transport (ATH or MTH1) to ensure equal distance from screen borders on the left and right sides of the image.
- Adjusting the projector's zoom for optimal multiple aspect ratio performance, specifically so that a 1.85:1 aspect ratio movie (with Panamorph "out") is just masked by the top and bottom screen borders, ensuring constant height for 1.85:1, 16:9, and 2.35-2.4:1 aspect ratio movies.

Maintenance Features:

Lens Cleaning: Lenses generally do not require frequent cleaning, as minor dust accumulation does not significantly impact image clarity. However, in dark home cinemas, dust or foreign matter can reduce contrast. The recommended cleaning method is to first blow off any dust. For residue or build-up, professional lens cleaning supplies from a camera store should be used while the lens is in front of the lit projector beam. This allows for immediate visual feedback on cleaning results and helps prevent damage.
Fastener Checks: Periodically check all fasteners and connection hardware to ensure they remain tight and secure, preventing instability and potential injury.

Limited Warranty:

Panamorph, Inc. provides an eighteen-month limited warranty from the date of manufacture, covering defects in original workmanship and material. The warranty allows for repair or replacement of defective units at Panamorph's discretion, upon return with original packaging and receipt. It does not cover damage from lack of prudent care, accidents, misuse (including unintended use with motor systems or other products), or cosmetic damage not reported within 15 days of purchase. Damages are limited to the product cost, and a service charge may apply for cosmetic attention or non-covered damage. The warranty is non-transferable and applies only to products purchased by original end users through authorized Panamorph channels.

Panamorph UH480 Specifications

General

Brand	Panamorph
Model	UH480
Category	Lenses
Language	English