Todd, look for wall mounts for TV sets/monitors (not the VESA ones). There also were some mentioned in the AE700 threads.

Is anyone else having the following problem?

When I watch ESPN HD, the screen becomes very blurry at times (especially when there is a lot of text on the screen or there are some high motion shots with text on screen), and then takes a while to refocus. Is this a property of the dynamic iris or could it be my cable service or ESPN HD?



I also received my Blockbuster extention. I was renting 5 dvds a week to try to use it up. Now I have 20 left, and now I can pace myself instead of being forced to rent crappy movies.

Is anyone else having the following problem?

When I watch ESPN HD, the screen becomes very blurry at times (especially when there is a lot of text on the screen or there are some high motion shots with text on screen), and then takes a while to refocus. Is this a property of the dynamic iris or could it be my cable service or ESPN HD?



I also received my Blockbuster extention. I was renting 5 dvds a week to try to use it up. Now I have 20 left, and now I can pace myself instead of being forced to rent crappy movies.

My comcast cable service gets a little blocky during high motion shots. I think it's bandwidth issues on their part. Maybe someone can confirm. It's a bit dissapointing when watching basketball.

This might be the wrong thread/forum... but I just ordered the Panny, and I'm trying to decide what to do for upgrading my video sources. At the moment I have a dedicated DVD player, but it's only standard def - and I use my laptop to play a lot of video files (Xvid, many other codecs) w/ output via SVideo. Should I just buy something like a mac mini w/ DVI output for BOTH DVD playback/upscale and video file playback, or should I also buy a dedicated upscaling DVD player because the "HTPC" approach doesn't work as well for DVD upscaling as a dedicated DVD player does?

Is anyone else having the following problem?

When I watch ESPN HD, the screen becomes very blurry at times (especially when there is a lot of text on the screen or there are some high motion shots with text on screen), and then takes a while to refocus. Is this a property of the dynamic iris or could it be my cable service or ESPN HD?



I also received my Blockbuster extention. I was renting 5 dvds a week to try to use it up. Now I have 20 left, and now I can pace myself instead of being forced to rent crappy movies.

I notice it more on ESPN then any other channel. It is there to a lesser extent on abc and tnt. I think it has to do w/ the cameras that they are using to cover the games. I watch a lot of hockey and soccer in HD which are also fast moving and I don't see this.

Hello people
I've posted this query in another thread, so excuse me for repeating:
I cant find the place where it says which firmware is my Pana 900.
Is the 900's Firmware version "secret menu" item still eluding us, or was it found?
I was hoping a new Firmware will, miraculously, fix the shift problem with my MYHD card.
Thanks

hard power down refers to turning off the master power switch on the back of the unit.
Ah, I see. Thanks for the clarification. I guess I always do hard power downs!

Had my AE900 for several weeks now, and I love it. Was watching a movie this past weekend, and all was well. When it was finished, I shut everything off, and went to bed. Then yesterday, I go to turn it on, and it won't power up. It tries to come on, the bulb lights up briefly, but the fan never kicks on, and then it goes back to standby. The power light goes from the red standyby color, to green for about 5 secs while it tries to power up, then to orange for less than a second and back to red while it shuts down.

So, I messed with it for a while, unplugging it, turning the master power off, trying different outlets, etc, etc, nothing worked. Then I was thinking about it, and I came down to make sure the power cord was tight in the back of the projector. It seemed snug, but I tried powering up again anyways, lo and behold it worked! We watched it for a couple hours, turned it off and back on, no problem. So I figured the cord must have been loose. All was well with the world.

Now tonight, same thing, but I can't get it to turn on. So, something is definitely wrong. It only has 30 hours on the bulb, and none of those lights is coming on anyway.

Anybody have a clue what is happening? Tech support is closed, and I have a call in to my salesman. Hopefully he can do an exchange, but I doubt it. I bought the proj in Feb to get the rebate, but didn't hook it up until a few weeks ago. I am hoping I am not screwed and have to send it in for repairs. Makes me nervous about the quality of this thing, or maybe I just got a bad egg. Still hoping it's something stupid, but I am not very happy right now.

Anybody have any ideas?

Andy

Well, I'm kinda bummed...

Got my Panny today. Installed the PJ (Cieling Mount).

Setup the Monoprice 5x1 HDMI switcher

DIRECTV HD DVR works fine via the switcher....however, my HTPC will not display. The video card is a Radeon 9800 PRO connected to the HDMI switcher via a DVI-HDMI cable (also from Monoprice). I have the latest drivers intsalled from ATI (Catalyst).

The switch is connected to the PJ via a 50 ft HDMI cable, which some users have posted here works fine for HTPC. Could this be my problem? When connected directly to the PJ, the HTPC works fine.

Any suggestions?

I can't be sure but I seem to remember that some people way back in this thread stated that HDMI can be finnicky with switches and in some cases the copy-protection can lick in which will cause the HDMI processor to think it is an illegal device and refuse to process the signal. What you describe seems to be similar. Try searching this forum for something like HDMI+switches+problems, etc.

Sorry I can't remember exact details. It was a while back that I read it.

Well I just got rid of my old Panny lt500U in and Ordered a new AE900. Hope to get it this week :). I hope this is a big improvement over the old projector.

I know it was crazy with the prices lately and both ae900u and sanyo z4 are very competitive when it comes to bonuses or MIR's. I have already a screen so extra screen which comes with sanyo is unnecessary for me. I'm buying ae900u in a few days but would like to know from people who know marketing very well what will happen after current 400MIR and BB card will expire. Will they expand it again or this time AGAIN increase value of MIR or they will throw extra lamp? I know that if I wait the MIR might just vanished for good this time but will feel like jerk when they double it or something.

Please leave what you think will happen after 31may

Thanks
DeathEvil

Well I just got rid of my old Panny lt500U in and Ordered a new AE900. Hope to get it this week :). I hope this is a big improvement over the old projector.

I did the same upgrade a couple of months ago and it was more the worth it. The picture is much brighter and colorful and no to very little VB.

Two negatives have been troubles with my HDMI switchers and some noise from the dynamic iris.

But overall, it has been a great improvement!

Go luck with your 900!

I did the same upgrade a couple of months ago and it was more the worth it. The picture is much brighter and colorful and no to very little VB.

Two negatives have been troubles with my HDMI switchers and some noise from the dynamic iris.

But overall, it has been a great improvement!

Go luck with your 900!

that's good to hear... I can't wait :)

Got my letter yesterday. Good thing as after being away from home for the last two months I didn't want to be in a rush to rent daily to get my movie fill. There isn't much of anything in the rental stores worth renting right now. Kong was the only one worth renting over the last couple months. Hopefully some good movies are released over the next 4 months.
Can you use the $300 rental card for purchasing used movies?

Ya, they will tell you that the rebate will be deducted from your refund. Whether that would happen or not is up to experience. However, I will say that I just bought a Panny AE900U from them (Costco), and the experience was one of the best I have ever had. The projector was shipped from within my own State (Ohio) and arrived in a very clean Panasonic double box. Almost as though I was a dealer (instead of just a consumer). I had a few questions about a recent price reduction on they're website and they are going to refund the difference. The lady told me that if I ever wanted to return the projector (for any reason, at any time) that not only would I get the price refunded, but they would pick the projector up (at their cost) but also refund the original shipping cost. I don't know about the rest of you, but I think that's about as good as it gets. BTW, I also bought a Peerless universal ceiling mount for about half what I would have found elsewhere. Oh, and if I don't want it, than yes I can return it (under the same terms) as the projector. To say the least, I'm a happy camper. Now, my other projector is an X1, and the Panny AE900U is so much of an improvement, that I can't even believe it. 720p (and LCD) rocks - Wow!
This is true! I just took my LT500U in to Costco and had my refundin less than 5 min...after almost 2 years and then went online and ordered the AE900.

I finally got my ae900 hooked up. I can't say I've been *completely* blown away but for the price it's awesome. The black levels are a bit of a concern to me as is the very slight lack of sharpness. The black levels are my biggest dissapointment though after watching boxing where the background is mostly dark. For the price I can't complain. It's a great first projector for me. I'm using a Greywolf 106" with it. The Athenas, Dayton sub, and Panasonic xr55 are what really blew me away. It's amazing how much you get for the money spent. Awesome relatively low cost theater.

I also got my ae900 from Costco. They lowered their price by $100 since I bought it so they said I could bring it in and they'd return it and let me buy it at the $100 less price (they'd subtract the rebate amount). It's just a hassle taking it off the ceiling and packaging it all up again. For some reason they want me to bring it in instead of just using the receipt...

I finally got my ae900 hooked up. I can't say I've been *completely* blown away but for the price it's awesome. The black levels are a bit of a concern to me as is the very slight lack of sharpness. The black levels are my biggest dissapointment though after watching boxing where the background is mostly dark. For the price I can't complain. It's a great first projector for me. I'm using a Greywolf 106" with it. The Athenas, Dayton sub, and Panasonic xr55 are what really blew me away. It's amazing how much you get for the money spent. Awesome relatively low cost theater.

I also got my ae900 from Costco. They lowered their price by $100 since I bought it so they said I could bring it in and they'd return it and let me buy it at the $100 less price (they'd subtract the rebate amount). It's just a hassle taking it off the ceiling and packaging it all up again. For some reason they want me to bring it in instead of just using the receipt...
I just found it for almost $80 cheaper online than CostCo... will they price match?

I also got my ae900 from Costco. They lowered their price by $100 since I bought it so they said I could bring it in and they'd return it and let me buy it at the $100 less price (they'd subtract the rebate amount). It's just a hassle taking it off the ceiling and packaging it all up again. For some reason they want me to bring it in instead of just using the receipt...

Wow, that sounds a little convoluted. I bought the AE900 from Costco as well, and they are going to just refund the $100 difference, so I just keep the original projector. That is their policy anytime they have a price decrease within 30-days of your purchase. They should just refund the diff. Ya might want to check it out...

"The black levels are my biggest dissapointment though after watching boxing where the background is mostly dark."

My feelings also when I first got, and hadn't made any adjustments.

Still w/o making adjustments, I got a Sony DVD player w/HDMI for $130, and the blacks and colors were *much* better.

Can someone point me in the direction of this mysterious panny 900 tweak thread, I seem to coming up with nothing when I search for it.

Thanks.

Can someone point me in the direction of this mysterious panny 900 tweak thread, I seem to coming up with nothing when I search for it.

Thanks.Here it is:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=589234

Can someone point me in the direction of this mysterious panny 900 tweak thread, I seem to coming up with nothing when I search for it.

Thanks.
That thread is currently showing up for me as the 22nd thread down on this first page of the Digital Projectors-Under $3500 MSRP page. If no one has posted recently, that thread is sometimes on the second page.

Wow, that sounds a little convoluted. I bought the AE900 from Costco as well, and they are going to just refund the $100 difference, so I just keep the original projector. That is their policy anytime they have a price decrease within 30-days of your purchase. They should just refund the diff. Ya might want to check it out...

I'm a bit out of my 30 day window so I guess it's nice that they're offering to give me the $100 at all. Basically they just want to run it as a return and then ring it up as a sale and just give me the same unit back.

"The black levels are my biggest dissapointment though after watching boxing where the background is mostly dark."

My feelings also when I first got, and hadn't made any adjustments.

Still w/o making adjustments, I got a Sony DVD player w/HDMI for $130, and the blacks and colors were *much* better.

I use the Oppo DVD player with mine. I haven't had the chance to really watch a movie yet though. I was referring to the black levels on hdtv digital cable (comcast). What adjustments did you make to your projector?

Thanks for the info.

I just swapped out my 96x62 pearl bight torus for the 139x78 Model C high power and I have not lost any brightness. I just finished watching Phantom of the Opera in HD via my VP-30 and all I can say is WOW! The PJ is mounted 5 feet from the floor which is essentially dead center on the screen. I notice no drop off when moving around the room, just an amazing image.

Quick question for all, I see that the panny can be had for around a good price now, Does anyone have any guesses about on how much cheaper this projector could be had for this summer. I dont need a projector right away and can afford to wait. Do you think it will hit the 1000$ mark

"What adjustments did you make to your projector? "

I'm running in Normal, Color Temp to minimum, a little toward red on tint, a few notches down on color.

I'll adjust w/Avia when I get my universal remote w/UHF programmed w/the 900's commands.

Can anyone confirm that this projector will work via the PC/VGA port using a component to VGA cable from a DVD player? I read somewhere that some projector models won't work using this method (though don't ask me why... VGA pin assingnments should all be the same).

The reason I ask is that I have a fairly permanent installation with a component to VGA cable installed, and switching the cable would be extremely difficult.

jnorton1,

We're not supposed to discuss street prices on the forum, so I can't quote an exact price, but in my estimatation I think it will bottom out about $100-150 less than the current lowest prices. I don't think we'll see lower than that for the 900 until the replacement model comes out towards the end of the year. That's all wild speculation of course. I'm playing the waiting game as well.

Before I get my ae900 what throw distance would anybody recommed. I want to have a 100" picture at 20.5' will this be ok or should I do 100" at 15'. I dont know if there would be any noticeable change. This is my first pg any help would be nice.

Before I get my ae900 what throw distance would anybody recommed. I want to have a 100" picture at 20.5' will this be ok or should I do 100" at 15'. I dont know if there would be any noticeable change. This is my first pg any help would be nice.

I got my AE900 last weekend and I currently have the screen size at 104" from 16ish feet away. The zoom feature works well. You can get 100" at either of the two distances you specified but if you can put it further go ahead and do it. The fan does make some noise and during quiet scenes I can hear it. Of course, it's only 3 feet behind my head, but still.

Thanks for your help!
I will put it at the back of the room.

Had my AE900 for several weeks now, and I love it. Was watching a movie this past weekend, and all was well. When it was finished, I shut everything off, and went to bed. Then yesterday, I go to turn it on, and it won't power up. It tries to come on, the bulb lights up briefly, but the fan never kicks on, and then it goes back to standby. The power light goes from the red standyby color, to green for about 5 secs while it tries to power up, then to orange for less than a second and back to red while it shuts down.

So, I messed with it for a while, unplugging it, turning the master power off, trying different outlets, etc, etc, nothing worked. Then I was thinking about it, and I came down to make sure the power cord was tight in the back of the projector. It seemed snug, but I tried powering up again anyways, lo and behold it worked! We watched it for a couple hours, turned it off and back on, no problem. So I figured the cord must have been loose. All was well with the world.

Now tonight, same thing, but I can't get it to turn on. So, something is definitely wrong. It only has 30 hours on the bulb, and none of those lights is coming on anyway.

Anybody have a clue what is happening? Tech support is closed, and I have a call in to my salesman. Hopefully he can do an exchange, but I doubt it. I bought the proj in Feb to get the rebate, but didn't hook it up until a few weeks ago. I am hoping I am not screwed and have to send it in for repairs. Makes me nervous about the quality of this thing, or maybe I just got a bad egg. Still hoping it's something stupid, but I am not very happy right now.

Anybody have any ideas?

Andy

Well, I spoke with tech support last night and they conferenced me right in with Heartland to get it in for service. Sucks, because now I am without a projector, but I have read some good things about Heartland on this forum, so hopefully it comes back better than new, in a short amount of time.

Andy

Hey Guys,
Thanks for the heads up on the price adjustment from costco.
I bought my unit April 12th and they have no problem crediting my amer. express.

a $100 is a $100.

Thanks again
T

http://www.projectorcentral.com/Panasonic_Home-PT-AE900U-projection-calculator-pro.htm

Use the above calculator to get the mounting distance range. For a 100" screen, the range is between 10.1 and 20.2 feet. It's best to stay away from the extremes of the mounting distance range, so as to not max out the zoom and leave some room for flexibility of screen choice. 15-16' would work better in your situation.

Before I get my ae900 what throw distance would anybody recommed. I want to have a 100" picture at 20.5' will this be ok or should I do 100" at 15'. I dont know if there would be any noticeable change. This is my first pg any help would be nice.

Since it appears that the LCD portion needs airflow - how hard is it to get rid of a dust blob on the 900u? Do you have to take off the cover or is there a hole in the cover so that you can direct air over the panels?

Speaking of covers. My ceiling is black. Can the cover be easily taken off and painted black?

Grant

Deleted.. nevermind

Since it appears that the LCD portion needs airflow - how hard is it to get rid of a dust blob on the 900u? Do you have to take off the cover or is there a hole in the cover so that you can direct air over the panels?



I've been wondering the same thing. I hardly ever use my current projector (a low-end NEC VT46), yet it has 7 or more dust blobs that are quite noticable. I'll eventually open it up and try to clean it, but I've heard reports of things getting worse after the attempt. I swore that my next projector would have sealed optics, not realizing that DLP would be the only option (I am rainbow-sensitive, so unless an affordable 3-chip solution comes along...).

Anyways, the AE900 seems close to perfection, apart from the dust issue. I find it surprising how susceptible projectors are to dust, with little or no thought given by the manufacturer on making them easy to clean out.

Is there a dust blob FAQ? There really should be a FAQ sticky on all of the most common issues like dust blobs for the rest of us to refer to whenever we have one. When you say you read that "it gets worse", do you mean the dust gets blown around and multiplies, or that somehow you are negatively affecting the components? I got one in my projector recently (not an AE900) and I just shot some canned air near where the lense protrudes from the projector, and it went away.

Is there a dust blob FAQ? There really should be a FAQ sticky on all of the most common issues like dust blobs for the rest of us to refer to whenever we have one. When you say you read that "it gets worse", do you mean the dust gets blown around and multiplies, or that somehow you are negatively affecting the components? I got one in my projector recently (not an AE900) and I just shot some canned air near where the lense protrudes from the projector, and it went away.

I've read about people attempting to remove a couple of dust blobs and ending up with more than there was before they tried to clean the panels.

It looks like the Sharp Z4 has special holes for cleaning and a special 'clean mode' you can put the projector in, though I'm not sure how well they work.

What do you guys clean the lens with? Just a fine lens cloth? Can you use a tiny bit of Windex too?

What do you guys clean the lens with? Just a fine lens cloth? Can you use a tiny bit of Windex too?

No Windex. It has ammonia and can strip any coating the lens may have. Get a microfiber cloth and some lens cleaner from a photo store or just very lightly dampen a bit of the cloth, wipe gently and then wipe dry.

E

Just thought I'd share my experience with the AE900 and the Omnimount PMD-1 ceiling mount.

Normally, I would build a mount myself, like I did with my Sony HS-10. This time around, I wanted something that allowed cable management (i.e., hiding the cables as much as possible) and a quick release system to make it easier to clean the filter and replace the bulb.

I came across the Omnimount and thought it matched the look of the AE900 well. Omnimount lists the PMD-2 as being the right size for the AE900, but I thought it looked too big and really showed too much of the grid, that allows the PMD to fit nearly any projector within a certain size. I took a chance on the smaller PMD-1 after seeing one listed cheaply on ebay.

Happily, I can confirm that the PMD-1 does fit the AE900. In fact, it will fit in either portrait or landscape orientation. Portrait fits best, because you can get all 4 mounting screws to attach properly and the holes in the mounting bracket come out of the rear of the unit, which lines right up to the rear panel of the AE900. Portrait is the way the PMD's were designed to fit projectors apparently.

I also tried mounting it landscape because it actually matches the wider body of the AE900 better - at least aestetically. While I was only able to get 3 holes secured into the grid, I still feel its secure. Additionally, the cleaning filter is accessible without removing the projector from the mount. Instead on running the cables out the back, the cables can be run out the side and around to the back (although I think by clipping a few of the wires in the grid, you could easily run the cables out directly to the rear).

Something else that wasn't apparent was whether the cables could go directly through the ceiling mount or whether they had to go out through the mounting sleeve. There is a hole with about an 1 1/4 inch diameter that will allow cables to go through the sleeve and up through the actually ceiling mount, so you do have to see any cables at all.

The kit comes with plenty of washers, screws, and fasteners for the typical installation - including m4 mounting screws for the AE900.

It allows minor tilt and pitch adjustments, and the height can be adjusted at either 3 1/2" inches or at increments between 13 1/2 to 20 1/4 inches. If you need anything between 3 1/2 and 13 1/2, or beyond 20 1/4, I think you would need need to customize it yourself with some 1 1/2 piping. I have not figured out an easy way to adjust the entire projector left or right.

I haven't completed the installation, but I can try to post some pics if anyone is interested.

Has anyone experimented with the lens shift to determine at what point chroma seperation occurs? I.e. it's okay to shift the image down x% but once you pass that point the colors begin to seperate? I'm looking at the 900 for my room, but in my room I'll have to use at least enough lens shift such that the lens is only an inch or so below the top of the screen.


Jonathan

yes, i would be interested in seeing some pics of the installation. i am trying to figure out which mount to buy for my new AE900. I am leaning towards a Carada screen.




Just thought I'd share my experience with the AE900 and the Omnimount PMD-1 ceiling mount.

Normally, I would build a mount myself, like I did with my Sony HS-10. This time around, I wanted something that allowed cable management (i.e., hiding the cables as much as possible) and a quick release system to make it easier to clean the filter and replace the bulb.

I came across the Omnimount and thought it matched the look of the AE900 well. Omnimount lists the PMD-2 as being the right size for the AE900, but I thought it looked too big and really showed too much of the grid, that allows the PMD to fit nearly any projector within a certain size. I took a chance on the smaller PMD-1 after seeing one listed cheaply on ebay.

Happily, I can confirm that the PMD-1 does fit the AE900. In fact, it will fit in either portrait or landscape orientation. Portrait fits best, because you can get all 4 mounting screws to attach properly and the holes in the mounting bracket come out of the rear of the unit, which lines right up to the rear panel of the AE900. Portrait is the way the PMD's were designed to fit projectors apparently.

I also tried mounting it landscape because it actually matches the wider body of the AE900 better - at least aestetically. While I was only able to get 3 holes secured into the grid, I still feel its secure. Additionally, the cleaning filter is accessible without removing the projector from the mount. Instead on running the cables out the back, the cables can be run out the side and around to the back (although I think by clipping a few of the wires in the grid, you could easily run the cables out directly to the rear).

Something else that wasn't apparent was whether the cables could go directly through the ceiling mount or whether they had to go out through the mounting sleeve. There is a hole with about an 1 1/4 inch diameter that will allow cables to go through the sleeve and up through the actually ceiling mount, so you do have to see any cables at all.

The kit comes with plenty of washers, screws, and fasteners for the typical installation - including m4 mounting screws for the AE900.

It allows minor tilt and pitch adjustments, and the height can be adjusted at either 3 1/2" inches or at increments between 13 1/2 to 20 1/4 inches. If you need anything between 3 1/2 and 13 1/2, or beyond 20 1/4, I think you would need need to customize it yourself with some 1 1/2 piping. I have not figured out an easy way to adjust the entire projector left or right.

I haven't completed the installation, but I can try to post some pics if anyone is interested.

Can anyone confirm that this projector will work via the PC/VGA port using a component to VGA cable from a DVD player? I read somewhere that some projector models won't work using this method (though don't ask me why... VGA pin assingnments should all be the same).

The reason I ask is that I have a fairly permanent installation with a component to VGA cable installed, and switching the cable would be extremely difficult.

Bishamon,

If I understand your question correctly, you are running component out from a DVD with a VGA cable into the PJ? Unless the cable contains some sort of transcoder, it shouldn't work. The pin assignments for VGA have RGB then H and V synch. Component carries the synch signals on two of the color connectors.

If you plug in a component cable without a transcoder, I don't think it will work. If it is with a transcoder, it should work fine.

If it is not a transcoder, you could probably use a vga breakout cable to separate the 5 connectors, then simply connect the three with the component signal to a component input on the back of the PJ.

Anyone else have any thoughts? Am I understanding the question correctly?

Thanks,

Ken

mngtcon: I'd be curious to see pictures. How solid is the mount? Any wobble?

Bishamon,

If I understand your question correctly, you are running component out from a DVD with a VGA cable into the PJ? Unless the cable contains some sort of transcoder, it shouldn't work. The pin assignments for VGA have RGB then H and V synch. Component carries the synch signals on two of the color connectors.

If you plug in a component cable without a transcoder, I don't think it will work. If it is with a transcoder, it should work fine.



You understand correctly. The NEC projector I am currently using does not have component inputs; instead, it will accept a component signal via the VGA port on the projector, using a component-to-vga cable. After doing some research, it appears as though a given projector must be designed to accept component via the VGA port. Given that the projectors I am considering as upgrades all include component inputs, it is unlikely they will be compatible with the cable I am using. However, I have the original short-length component to VGA cable I obtained from NEC, so I can probably use that to convert back to component into the AE900 or Z4. I guess there's only one way to find out, but if it doesn't work, running a new cable will be a MAJOR pain.

I received my AE900 from Visual Apex a week ago. Very happy with the delivery time and service. Today, I'm filling out the rebate form, and one of the things it requires is a copy of the invoice. I did not, however get an invoice from VA. The projector came double boxed (pj in its original box, then put into another box), but there was no receipt or invoice. Did you other VA customers get an invoice? What should I do? Would printing out the confirmation email from VA showing the customer name and price of the projector suffice as an invoice for the rebate?

Just email Visual Apex for a copy of the invoice and use that. That is what I did and had no issues.
Enjoy
Jim

...

I had the same receipt issue with costco.com - no invoice.
I printed out the e-mail (circled the appropriate info )
and sent it with all other serial numbers.
NO Problem doing it this way.
at least not for me.

got mine last friday.i have very little time to deal with it in the next few weeks but still have a few q. :
1.AUTO SEARCHING is on but still if i turn of the DVD after watching it and turn on the computer i must press the HDMI button . why ???
2.I got mine with 3 yrs guarenty. what about the lamp ???
3.I have Gforce FX5200. the panny is using the DVI and the screen uses the VGA. i tried everything to get the screen res.to 1024x768 and the panny to 1280x720 but its not working. they are on the same res. all the time.what to do ????

thanks guys.and btw its an amazing toy.... i have upgraded from infocus lp500 and the result is so great even my girlfriend felt it !!! and thats something !

thanks

tomer2000 -- Q1: There might be some clue in manual. The Panny manuals usually tell you why, but it might be burried towards the back of the manual.

Q2: I don't have an answer, sorry. Did you buy it with a spare lamp option? If so, you might have to send in some paperwork to Panasonic (along with a copy of your receipt) and wait for them to send it to you. Spare lamps usually are sent direct form the factory. Don't wait a couple of weeks before sending it in, as it might be time sensitive.

Q3: There should be some more informaion, on using the Gforce FX5200 video card with 720p projectors, in the HTPC forum. You need to read the threads on Nvidia driven cards.

You do have to download and install the latest drivers and software for your video card. You should also be setting the card to 1280 x 720 (there may be a setting for the AE700 or "widescreen" displays), AFIK. There is also other Gforce software for use with projection displays, from what I've read (I use an ATI card, so I'm not really familiar with the various flavors of Nvidia chips - the ATI card software is updated monthly and there are settings for LCD projectors).

Enjoy your new PJ :D.

[QUOTE=
2.I got mine with 3 yrs guarenty. what about the lamp ???
thanks[/QUOTE]

It has to specifically state that it covers the lamp or it will not be covered. Read over the fine print and see what it says about "consumables". My warranty actually comes in 2 parts. One part covers the machine and the other part covers up to 3 bulb swaps. I am still on the first bulb. But if I keep doing what I did last night it won't be long till I need another. I was real tired and went to bed without turning it off. It was on a total of 18 hours. :(

I received my AE900 from Visual Apex a week ago. Very happy with the delivery time and service. Today, I'm filling out the rebate form, and one of the things it requires is a copy of the invoice. I did not, however get an invoice from VA. The projector came double boxed (pj in its original box, then put into another box), but there was no receipt or invoice. Did you other VA customers get an invoice? What should I do? Would printing out the confirmation email from VA showing the customer name and price of the projector suffice as an invoice for the rebate?

I also bought mine online and faced a similar situation. But in my case the companys name was not even on the invoice. It had the product and price and how I paid for it. I ended up using the computer to put their company name and address and phone number at the top of the page and making my own invoice. I copied it and sent the copy in. It worked like a charm and I got my rebate with no problems.

i didn't pay any extra for the warranty it was just given to me for 36 months.
how is the standard lamp warranty ?? (usually a few handred hours or a few months right?)
i love it any way just was wondering since i had some lamps problem with my old pj......(infocus)
10x.

Just wanted to chime in here...

I previosuly had an issue with the DVI switcher from Monoprice.com (5x1) not displaying my HTPC (ATI radeon 9800 Pro) via the Panny AE900....well, purchased the "DVI Detective" from Geffen (if you need one - check on ebay!) and it completely solved the issue I was having. My HTPC now displays perfectly....

i didn't pay any extra for the warranty it was just given to me for 36 months.
how is the standard lamp warranty ?? (usually a few handred hours or a few months right?)
i love it any way just was wondering since i had some lamps problem with my old pj......(infocus)
10x.

I believe it is 90 days or 500 hours whatever comes first.

mngtcon: I'd be curious to see pictures. How solid is the mount? Any wobble?

Mark and G550 - Sorry for the delay. The unit is tight - no wobble as long as your pitch and tilt adjustments are within limits.

Here's the AE900 mounted to the grid. The grid slides into the the top bracket, which allows the projector to be easily removed for changing bulbs or cleaning the filter. I was only able to get 3 out of the 4 mounting screws fastened, but I still feel it is secure.
http://www.happyivy.com/Omnimount/DSC_1594Good.jpg

With mounting the grid landscape (as opposed to portrait like it supposed to be), I think it looks better - although this method will have the cords running out to the side, then wrapped around to the back, instead of the cords running directly to the back. Also notice, the filter can still be removed without taking the grid off.
http://www.happyivy.com/Omnimount/DSC_1595Good.jpg

Next, comes installing the harness into the ceiling. A plastic cap will eventually cover the harness. You should align the screws holes appropriately prior to securing it. Refer to the manual. I didn't do it, but should have. My HDMI and Component cables fit easily through the 1 1/4 inch opening. Remember to feed the AE900's power cable through the hole too. The harness should be installed 3 1/2 inches left of center to compensate for the lens being off-center on the AE900.
http://www.happyivy.com/Omnimount/DSC_1610Good.jpg

Here's the grid attached to the extension shaft and mounting plate. The extension shaft is included in the kit, but does not need to be used, if you require a more flush mount. Cords wrapped around back.
http://www.happyivy.com/Omnimount/DSC_1622Good.jpg

http://www.happyivy.com/Omnimount/DSC_1623Good.jpg


Installation complete.
http://www.happyivy.com/Omnimount/DSC_1626Good.jpg

http://www.happyivy.com/Omnimount/DSC_1633Good.jpg

http://www.happyivy.com/Omnimount/DSC_1632Good.jpg

http://www.happyivy.com/Omnimount/DSC_1636Good.jpg

Next thing to do is to finish my diy screen. Hope this helped.

very nice, clean instal--thanks!

I setup my AE900 yesterday at the recommened throw on a bookshelf for now. I hav tried two movies and both look very grainy. I have tried going through the menus and changing stuff around but nothing helps. I have a oppo dvd player connected via HDMI to DVI. What am I doing wrong. It is reading 720p?

Just want to say, 6 months after purchase, I am still 1000% thrilled with this machine, and dread the day when I am no longer thrilled with it, tho I'm sure the 1080P bug will bite me eventually.

With a greywolf screen and minimal work on my home I have a screen triple the size of the Sony A10 that was my second choice, and have no issues so far with dust, whine, color, black levels, etc. Its all better than I expected as a first time PJ buyer.

Sam

mngtcon: Very nice picture show on the PMD-1 mount. I think I'll pick one up. Ah, found one on EBay, I'll have it next week. Time to create and paint a wedge, I have a sloped roof.

I setup my AE900 yesterday at the recommened throw on a bookshelf for now. I hav tried two movies and both look very grainy. I have tried going through the menus and changing stuff around but nothing helps. I have a oppo dvd player connected via HDMI to DVI. What am I doing wrong. It is reading 720p?

What were the movies?

What pic mode are you using on the 900? and can you list in order the various things you have tried. Start by going back to the factory settings. Also, try the component out from the oppo.

I also have the oppo and 900.

Dave

Dave,
Justice League and Chicken Little (many others as well) all give me a picture that looks very grainny and is some scences I can't even see the faces. (It looks like I can see the pixels.) Composite looks 100% better, very weird. I have tried all modes from Dynamic to cinema 3 in HDMI dymanic is brighter, but still can't see faces at all. I have tried Eric's and Mike's settings on AE900 Tweak thread neither worked well.

Carla

I have the Oppo Panny combo and the one thing you may want to check is to go into the menu of the Oppo and set the screen type to wide. Mine was set to regular screen pan and scan and it did look grainy as you describe. Look at the Oppo blue screen and see how that looks without a movie. Also if you are using full screen DVD's the Oppo will blow up and stretch them making them look like crap.

Jon,
Perfect point! Thank you. I will check that tonight. The oppo screen looks good with no movie.

Carla

I must be missing something obvious.

I'm trying to connect my HTPC to my AE900 through HDMI, but I'm only seeing the flashing HDMI message on the screen.

My HTPC was last used with a Sony HS-10 using PowerStrip. I have a monoprice HDMI to DVI adaptor plugged into my Radeon 7500, and a 6 meter monoprice HDMI to HDMI cable going from the adaptor to the HDMI input on the AE900.

I've also tried a 6 foot HDMI to HDMI cable with the same HDMI to DVI adaptor with no success.

I've tried to reboot in SAFE mode (using F8) to reset the display mode, but I still only get the flashing HDMI message - even during boot-up, I've never seen any output on the AE900.

I'm tempted to buy/borrow a DVD player with HDMI, just to make sure my HDMI input works on the AE900.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Hertoy,

I have the same problem. I use some other brand DVD plyaer that has HDMI output. I set it as 1080 out and set AE900 to take HDMI input. Watch War of The World, feel very grainy. What am doing wrong here?

Thanks,
Han

I must be missing something obvious.

I'm trying to connect my HTPC to my AE900 through HDMI, but I'm only seeing the flashing HDMI message on the screen.



No, you are not missing anything obvious. As long as there is a handshake between the two devices then it should work.

I've used my 700 with a Radeon 9500 Pro and a 6600GT. Currently it is occupied by a Panasonic S52. The 900 has a better implementation of the HDMI port.

First thing I would do is utilize recent drivers from ATI.
If still no luck I would look to mechanical issues - cabling, adaptors and seating of same, though there really should be no issues with the monoprice parts. I assume you've got the pj connected to the prime vidcard output. Have you tried the VGA input to be sure that you have indeed got your PC set up correctly? (Older Radeons exhibit ringing on VGA with long runs btw.)

If you can borrow a player and HDMI cable to check, then that would be a good troubleshooting aid.

ted

Hertoy,

I have the same problem. I use some other brand DVD plyaer that has HDMI output. I set it as 1080 out and set AE900 to take HDMI input. Watch War of The World, feel very grainy. What am doing wrong here?



It may be the film stock that was used for the movie. When Minority Report was released it was noticably grainy and there was discussion about it. Supposedly Spielberg wanted the grainy look and it had nothing to do with the DVD transfer; it just became more noticable on large HD screens. Given that War of the Worlds was also a Spielberg film, I was not surprised to find it somewhat grainy as well.

Of course, I could be completely wrong. ;)

Hertoy,

I have the same problem. I use some other brand DVD plyaer that has HDMI output. I set it as 1080 out and set AE900 to take HDMI input. Watch War of The World, feel very grainy. What am doing wrong here?

Thanks,
Han

WOW *is* grainy - that is stylistic. Are you sure you folks are not simply seeing film grain?

Players can also introduce MPEG errors (macroblocking) depending on the decoder/scaler in the device. Faroudja based units are particularly guilty of this.

ted

Hertoy,

I have the same problem. I use some other brand DVD plyaer that has HDMI output. I set it as 1080 out and set AE900 to take HDMI input. Watch War of The World, feel very grainy. What am doing wrong here?

Thanks,
Han

War of the Worlds was intentionally shot with a lot of soft filters and a grainy film stock to hide the digital effects. The colors were largely desaturated as well. It is not a good DVD to use for testing sharpness or color for these reasons.

Elio

I just had to chime in and say that after waaaaaaaaay too much research and reading, I pulled the trigger on my Panny AE900 this afternoon. It came down to the InFocus 4805 or the Panny and I really wanted the true HD resolution so I can have another HD cable box hooked up in the basement.

So - today I bought the projector from projectorpeople.com, a couple of cables from MonoPrice, and another DVD player from Circuit City.

Now the hard part - sitting and waiting until it gets here...

I do have one question - after all the expenses, I'm not sure about a $200 celing mount. I plan to mount it under a soffit in my basement (the one covering the beam that holds my house up!) and was wondering if anyone has any creative plans for a hanging shelf...

Thanks and I'm proud to be (almost) in the club!

Check this out -
I made mine for under $20
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=232749

T

Without reading every page in this thread can someone tell me what DVD will be a good match with the AE900?

Right now I have a Denon 2900 but not sure how good that would look on the Panny.

So my other options are the Oppo or maybe the Panny S77/S97.
Could someone tell me which of these three would be the better
fit with the AE900?

Also does anyone know where I can find a long iec320-c5 power cable
for this PJ?

Thanks!

I loaded Nanny Mcveigh (Widescreen) and the faces of the people are pink with like dark pink blotches on peoples faces (like shadows). You see the problem with some other colors as well. Composite looks great and realistic. What am I doing wrong?

The OPPO intro screen looks good in HDMI mode. PC via DVI is good as well. Screen is 92" diag and I am at 18'9" for throw.

Got mine today.. picture is a def improvement over the lt500. Found out I needed a HDMI cable though (I had a hdmi to DVI cable :( ). Should have the HDMI cable in the morning, So far the pic looks sharper and def brighter than the lt500U although the old projector did have almost 2k hours on the bulb.

Check this out -
I made mine for under $20
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=232749

T


Bookmarked!

Thank you VERY much!

I loaded Nanny Mcveigh (Widescreen) and the faces of the people are pink with like dark pink blotches on peoples faces (like shadows). You see the problem with some other colors as well. Composite looks great and realistic. What am I doing wrong?

The OPPO intro screen looks good in HDMI mode. PC via DVI is good as well. Screen is 92" diag and I am at 18'9" for throw.

I don't do OPPO but it is possible you've left out some setting or other. Check in the DVD forum - lots of users there. There are colourspace concerns with the HDMI input that *might* be causing you problems. You might also try hooking up the component input - just use three RCA type cables if it is a short run, you don't need to buy special cables.

I've a feeling you may get better results by pursuing a basic calibration of the pj. Have you done any calibration? If not I think you need to look into AVIA or DVE. One (or both) of these discs is an absolute must for HT hobbyists. It is really where to start. Both discs provide various clips which can be useful for evaluating your display as well as test patterns that for calibration. For info, peruse this long but invaluable thread, so it is worth the slog and the bookmark.
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=494606

ted

I do have one question - after all the expenses, I'm not sure about a $200 celing mount. I plan to mount it under a soffit in my basement (the one covering the beam that holds my house up!) and was wondering if anyone has any creative plans for a hanging shelf...

I made a hanging shelf/box that is mounted directly behind the soffit with the projector projecting right under the soffit. The projector is right-side up and set for desktop projection.

Since this is my first post, I can't attach photos or a hyperlink, but you can see my photos in the photo gallery under fbrewer

Cheers!

this thing is amazing, i just set it up in a non light controlled room (just w/ the curtains drawn...about a 11' throw 90' screen just projected on flat white apartment wall...

playing some fight night round 3 on xbox...all i can say is @_@ looks amazing

nm!

I see you found the front ring of the lens.

;)
ted

yes sir...i was just using the zoom so i consulted the user manual...this thing ROCKS!!!!

another thing i wanted to note...my xbox 360 is 1,000 louder than the panasonic....the panny is WHISPER quiet

welcome to the fun Fred

T

I made a hanging shelf/box that is mounted directly behind the soffit with the projector projecting right under the soffit. The projector is right-side up and set for desktop projection.

Since this is my first post, I can't attach photos or a hyperlink, but you can see my photos in the photo gallery under fbrewer

Cheers!

VERY nice! I'll probably do something similar but on the "front" side or immediately below the soffit if I can avoid hitting my head on it!

Just got my FedEx tracking number, but it's not live yet... Guess there's no way it'll be here in time for the Indy 500......

Got the new HDMI cable from monoprice and I still have the same problem :( . When I had the component cable I thought my cable was bad... when I would pull the blue cable nothing would change , Here is my problem. My windows are blue but when I view hem through the E900 they are green... the area on AVS where the users name is is supposed to be blue it is black. This is with the HDMI and with 3 dif component cables. Did I get a defective projector?
tia,
Ron

Not really a particular AE900 question, but it has to do with connections to an AE900 that's on the way so I guess I'll ask here.

I think the way the connections are going to be right now are the Oppo on the HDMI (via DVI->HDMI converter obviously), something (maybe PS2, no Xbox360 ) on the component, and I was wanting to put a PC on the VGA input. However, I'm unclear what the length restrictions on a VGA cable run are. It would have to be about 35ft. is that going to cause problems or is it fine? The PC does have a DVI output so maybe another HDMI adapter and a switch would be better?

So no replies back from my post yesterday and I thought I would try this again...

I have a Denon 2900 now and I am trying to figure out if going with the Oppo for this PJ will be a big improvement.

Is this the correct cable to use from the Oppo to the Ae900?

http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=102&cp_id=10231&cs_id=1023102&p_id=2285&style=&seq=1&format=1#largeimage

Also does anyone know where to find a 15ft power cable for the AE900?

So no replies back from my post yesterday and I thought I would try this again...

I have a Denon 2900 now and I am trying to figure out if going with the Oppo for this PJ will be a big improvement.

Is this the correct cable to use from the Oppo to the Ae900?

http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=102&cp_id=10231&cs_id=1023102&p_id=2285&style=&seq=1&format=1#largeimage

Also does anyone know where to find a 15ft power cable for the AE900?

Yes, that is the correct cable. Not sure on the 15' power cable, but I think it's a standard PC type power cable and you should be able to find those anywhere like Staples, CompUSA or Radio Shack

I contacted Panasonic tech support and the problem appears to be compatibility with my Denon 2807 receiver. If I just run Component from my Autopatch the picture is perfect. I was running through the Denon to upconvert to the HDMI (for a better picture).

one thing i can't figure out, is i have the XBOX connected w/ component and when i go to the menu it says "signal 480i" even though i have the xbox set to 720p...how do i get the panny to go up to 720p...do i have to hard set this? or should it just be auto?

Thx for the help. (user manual hasn't helped me to solve this one yet)

I am going from Motorola HD6412 HDTV setop box recorder out the DVI output through a DVI to HDMI converter to a Liberty HDMI and Componet cable. The cable is 25ft. I have never been able to get the HDMI input to work and was hoping to find some ideas here. The component outputs and inputs work fine.

when i go to the menu it says "signal 480i" even though i have the xbox set to 720p...how do i get the panny to go up to 720p, when i set it on the xbox...it looks like it is at 720p and then drops down to 480i...ARG

i'm really frustrated =(

figured it out...stupid xbox 360 cable...there is a SWITCH on the cable that u actually have to move to "HDTV"...doh

when i go to the menu it says "signal 480i" even though i have the xbox set to 720p...how do i get the panny to go up to 720p, when i set it on the xbox...it looks like it is at 720p and then drops down to 480i...ARG

i'm really frustrated =(

figured it out...stupid xbox 360 cable...there is a SWITCH on the cable that u actually have to move to "HDTV"...doh

It will also depend on the game you have in. Some put out a 720p signal, others do not. If it is a game that does not the Panasonic will show the resolution the game is outputing. The X-Box (to my knowledge) does not upscale automatically.

yeah, i have it hard set to play at 720p...but i just watched Aeon Flux @ 480p

still very good!

i am completely blown away by the quality of the picture, and i am just projecting it on a plain white apartment wall...i'm sure it even better when i get a screen!

i was very hesitant about purchasing it, it's WAY exceded my expectations

I too am shooting my pic onto an off white wall and I have really bad vertical banding. Would gettting a screen drastically take VB away or atleast help not have vb?

yeah, i have it hard set to play at 720p...but i just watched Aeon Flux @ 480p

still very good!

i am completely blown away by the quality of the picture, and i am just projecting it on a plain white apartment wall...i'm sure it even better when i get a screen!

i was very hesitant about purchasing it, it's WAY exceded my expectations

You are using the X-box to play DVDs?

yeah...i know...i need to get an upconverting dvd player...all in good time

the xbox 360 is all i have right now

Hello experts!

This is my first post on the forum, so go easy on me! I have been a reader for almost a year now and find the information on the forum to be quite valuable and helpful. Anyway, I have a situation I would like to get your help with.

I bought my AE900 about two months ago from an ebay dealer. The projector came factory sealed from Japan and it is a Japanese unit (with Japanese OSD, remote, etc.) After a couple of days of calibration, I noticed a convergence issue with it. I got in touch with a Panasonic engineer and he told me to make the focus as sharp as possible, center the lens, and look at the OSD letters to measure convergence visually. By putting up an AVIA convergence pattern on my Draper matte white screen, I see that the convergence is off by 1 pixel in the center of the image and by about 2 pixels closer to the edges of the image. I contacted Panasonic and Heartland about this issue and they do not support repairing this unit because it is a Japanese made unit.

The second issue I noticed is that the picture is somewhat dim in any setting (Cinema1 through Dynamic). Of course, Dynamic is the brightest, but I still feel that the picture is not as bright as it should be. I have a light controlled room so I know the issue is not my lighting situation. What I noticed also is that when I change the lamp power from low to high or vice versa, it makes very little noticeable difference in the brightness of the picture. This may be normal, but I don't have a way to measure it.

So, I have two questions:
1 - Do you have any suggestions on how to go about repairing my projector since no one in the USA seems to want to do it.
2 - Is there a way that I can measure that my projector lamp is putting out the full power that it should be.

Any help is greatly appreciated and I always enjoy reading your comments.

I am getting my projector back from Heartland tomorrow, just had a bad power supply.

I have a question though, and I am sure it has been answered, but I can't find it off hand...My projector is ceiling mounted at about the top of my screen, 16' away or so, 106" screen. So, I had my mount tilted down so that the image was vertically centered. This caused me to need to set keystoning at -6 to have the edges square. Which is better, using lens shift to move the image down (which would require less keystoning, right?), or tilting the mount so that no lens shift is required, but keystoning of -6 is required?

I ask because on one of my xbox 360 games, there is a frame that runs around the edge of the screen. I noticed that the frame seemed to run off the one side of the screen a little bit. The technician at Heartland advised that the keystoning was causing this, so now I am wondering which way is best for my setup.

Thanks,
Andy

yeah...i know...i need to get an upconverting dvd player...all in good time

the xbox 360 is all i have right now


just snagged a toshiba HDMI dvd player at costco (@at the store, not online). great price...pm me if you want more specifics.

I have a HTPC and I''m wondering what the best resolution is to use with my new panny AE900?

1920X1080?

1280X720?

other?

I am getting my projector back from Heartland tomorrow, just had a bad power supply.

I have a question though, and I am sure it has been answered, but I can't find it off hand...My projector is ceiling mounted at about the top of my screen, 16' away or so, 106" screen. So, I had my mount tilted down so that the image was vertically centered. This caused me to need to set keystoning at -6 to have the edges square. Which is better, using lens shift to move the image down (which would require less keystoning, right?), or tilting the mount so that no lens shift is required, but keystoning of -6 is required?

I ask because on one of my xbox 360 games, there is a frame that runs around the edge of the screen. I noticed that the frame seemed to run off the one side of the screen a little bit. The technician at Heartland advised that the keystoning was causing this, so now I am wondering which way is best for my setup.

Thanks,
Andy


The tech is right,
It will always be better to use the lens shift over keystone.
Thats the main reason they have the lens shift, so there's no need to use the keystone correction.

I have a HTPC and I''m wondering what the best resolution is to use with my new panny AE900?

1920X1080?

1280X720?

other?

1280x720 is the way to go as that's the native resolution of the projector. It's always best to minimize the amount of scaling that needs to be done.

The tech is right,
It will always be better to use the lens shift over keystone.
Thats the main reason they have the lens shift, so there's no need to use the keystone correction.

Thanks Mike. I guess I had it in my head that the lens shift would degrade the PQ, but sounds like that is incorrect. I will try to straighten the mount out, and hopefully have enough lens shift to get the picture centered vertically. If not, I'll adjst the mount a little, but at any rate, it should cut down ont he amount of ketstone I have to use.

Thanks again.
Andy

I always heard there was distortion at the extremes of the lens shift, but never was clear on what kind of distortion or to what extent it was present, does anyone have any insight?

I have my projector mounted level ~ 3in below the top of the screen. Sits about 12.5' back projecting onto a 110" screen. All lens shift no problems. One thing is to try to make sure that your lens (not the projector) is mounted as close to the center of the screen as possible because if you use extreme lens shift up and down it essentially takes away all of the left right shift.

I am waiting for my AE900 projector to arrive in the mail...in the meantime I was considering replacing my DVD player (Panasonic S25) with one that has upscaling.

One that I can find locally is the Toshiba SD4990. The price seems decent. I saw that the Panasonic 97S was recommended, but I serached at our local stores and they don't carry that one (must be a Canada thing).

Any comments on the Toshiba SD4990? Will this look better for me that just letting the projector scale the image? (sorry..newb question)

I had to send in my Denon DVD-3910 back to Denon for a repair so I am watching DVDs with my Panasonic ES20 (DVD recorder) using the component outs and 480i resolution and I am pleasantly surprised by the picture. Don't get me wrong, the digital up converted picture from the 3910 is better but the ES20 was still very watchable. This goes to show the 900's video processor is pretty good.

As for the SD4990, I don't know anything about it but four reviewers at Epinions gave it only 1 star out of 5.

Hmm..maybe I will consider the Panasonic. It says it doenst have digital optical output, but the instrux I found online say it does...

http://www.futureshop.ca/catalog/proddetail.asp?sku_id=0665000FS10072040&catid=24136&logon=&langid=EN

http://www.panasonic.ca/english/audiovideo/dvdvcr/player/dvds52.asp

Hmm..maybe I will consider the Panasonic. It says it doenst have digital optical output, but the instrux I found online say it does...




I've the S52 - OK pic. Lots of adjust if you need such things. Handles 4:3 (i.e. OAR) correctly over HDMI 720p when setup properly - it defaults to stretch.

It *does* have optical (at keast mine does). Use COAX - works just as well.

There is a new OPPO coming with HDMI or consider a Hi Def player which *will* upconvert.

ted

Well I just picked up the Panasonic at noon..so when the projector arrives we'll see..... :) It DOES have optical out for sound. I wasn't 100% sure if my receiver had a coax input but it has optical for sure.

I didn't want to spend too much since I WILL get a high def dvd player when they are less expensive and media is common.

Thanks for help!!!!!!!!!!

Not really a particular AE900 question, but it has to do with connections to an AE900 that's on the way so I guess I'll ask here.

I think the way the connections are going to be right now are the Oppo on the HDMI (via DVI->HDMI converter obviously), something (maybe PS2, no Xbox360 ) on the component, and I was wanting to put a PC on the VGA input. However, I'm unclear what the length restrictions on a VGA cable run are. It would have to be about 35ft. is that going to cause problems or is it fine? The PC does have a DVI output so maybe another HDMI adapter and a switch would be better?

I have used 50' cables without any problem. VGA is an analog signal and can travel further without breakup than a digital signal ( running HDMI more than 25' w/o an amplifier could mean breakup / digital snow ). So have fun!

FYI-
I just now received my $400.00 rebate and Blockbuster card. I sent in my rebate in early Feb. The Blockbuster card has an expiration date of April 2007.

Do you have to rent movies with this card or can you use it to buy movies also?

VGA is an analog signal and can travel further without breakup than a digital signal ( running HDMI more than 25' w/o an amplifier could mean breakup / digital snow ).

Depends on the quality of the transceivers / signal strength. Digital *can* be viewed as an analog square wave signal.

Except for "sparklies" where there is the occasional data loss from marginal signal strength, digital either works or it doesn't. There is constant handshaking going on and once that is lost there is no signal.

The quality of an analog transport can also be dependent on the vidcard. For example on my 27 ft run my 9500 Pro exhibited a great deal of ringing my 6600 GT exhibits no such errors. Digital would not do that - it would be there or not,

ted

Do you have to rent movies with this card or can you use it to buy movies also?
I think it is rent only... But I'm hoping I can buy DVDs :)

I think it is rent only... But I'm hoping I can buy DVDs :)

Unfortunately, you can not, it is rental only.

Peace and blessings,

Azeke

Well my package just arrived! Oppo and AE900U.

I have set it up in a temp spot to get an idea of how it compares to my 4805 and I must say it is pretty impressive thus far.

I did notice one small thing...on the top and bottom edge of the image there is a fine line the goes across the entire length screen. Is this normal?

Also wondering if someone could give me some advise on basic calibration settings they are using with there Oppo/AE900U setup. So far all I have done is set the Oppo to Video 2 and set it to 720P.

Any basic settings would be great until I get my Avia disc in the mail...

Check the AE900 tweak thread. Also, m ae900 doesn't have the black lines at the bottom.

Hi
First of all thankyou for all of the experts here that helped me made up my decision easy on my first projector. I have got the blackout screen made, its 133" and the picture looks very nice. I dont know much about the projector but I have noticed that there is a slight grain or the picture gets a little fuzzy on the moving objects. I dont know how to describe it but its not completely clear. You can see a slight shadow while watching. I have tried adjusting the lens. For eg if a person is standing his picture is clear and when he moves it gets a little grainy and then again gets clear. Its not that much distracting but is it suppossed to be like this?
Thanks in advance for all your help.
Thankyou

Hi
its 133" and the picture looks very nice. I dont know much about the projector but I have noticed that there is a slight grain or the picture gets a little fuzzy on the moving objects. I dont know how to describe it but its not completely clear. You can see a slight shadow while watching.

Diagonal or screen width?
Viewing distance?
Source and equipment used for playback?
Transport (Connection used)?
Dark areas or light areas?
Has your display been calibrated for black and white level?

All good places to start.

ted

Quick question fellas, just recently purchased the AE-900 and while watching movies I noticed three vertical bars about a foot apart continue to scroll up the screen in the background, most notably in dark and poorly lit movie scenes.
Any idea on what this is or could be causing that.


Thanks,

Quick question fellas, just recently purchased the AE-900 and while watching movies I noticed three vertical bars about a foot apart continue to scroll up the screen in the background, most notably in dark and poorly lit movie scenes.
Any idea on what this is or could be causing that.


Thanks,
do you mean horizontal bars scrolling up thats a ground loop if yes search ground loop you will find a cure

I have a 300u and very good eyesight. At 1.5 screen widths or so away from a 106" high power screen I can never get a truly sharp focus. Is the 900 better at this? I'm pretty sure it's being caused by the smoothscreen tech, because I use the onscreen text to focus by (such as the freeze text) Maybe the higher rez of the 900 lessens this some, or should I get the z4 instead?

Hi
First of all thankyou for all of the experts here that helped me made up my decision easy on my first projector. I have got the blackout screen made, its 133" and the picture looks very nice. I dont know much about the projector but I have noticed that there is a slight grain or the picture gets a little fuzzy on the moving objects. I dont know how to describe it but its not completely clear. You can see a slight shadow while watching. I have tried adjusting the lens. For eg if a person is standing his picture is clear and when he moves it gets a little grainy and then again gets clear. Its not that much distracting but is it suppossed to be like this?
Thanks in advance for all your help.
Thankyou

Where did you find blackout material that was the appriate width (height?). I've only hear of roles of 54" and 60". For a 133" diagonal, you must have 72" width.

anyone here had played hd dvds on the ae900 ?
if yes how is it ?

Hooked up an HD-A1 yesterday and watched Serenity last night....WONDERFUL PICTURE!!! No connection issues at all over a 10-meter HDMI cable. Do set the Toshiba to output 1080i and let the Panny process it to 720p!

Given the street pricing and rebate on the AE-900, the Best Buy weekend coupon for the HD-A1, add a DIY screen and you can have a very, VERY NICE display for an amazing price.

i saw the ae900 in an elctronic shop and it was playing a normal dvd and to

be ounest i didn't realise a great difference in picture quality between it and

beween my hitachi cps225 projector , and when i expressed that to the

salesman he said that i will notice the great difference when i connect the ae900

to an hdtv source , so is he right ?

Quick question fellas, just recently purchased the AE-900 and while watching movies I noticed three vertical bars about a foot apart continue to scroll up the screen in the background, most notably in dark and poorly lit movie scenes.
Any idea on what this is or could be causing that.


Thanks,


IS it hooked up via component? HDMI? Could be electrical interference. In an old setup, I had a Z2 that would get rolling bars when hooked up via component. This would only happen when I had a certain high wattage fixture turned on in a nearby room. It went away when the fixture was off. It never showed up with DVI connection.

I'd rather not start another thread, so here it goes. I've had an ae900 hooked up via svideo for around a week or 2 and need to upgrade. I originally planned on an upscaling DVD player with HDMI, but decided to just wait for blu-ray/HD-DVD to hog up my HDMI connection, so I'm getting component video cables. I'm looking at monoprice component cables since I don't have a lot of money after buying this along with things I need to do in my theater. I know the switcher and HDMI cables have had good remarks, but has anyone tried the component video cables?

Let me apologize in advance if this has been covered: I am considering an AE900U but I live in Canada. A rudimentary search shows some serious price gouging going on in comparison to US dealers when looking at current exchange rates and even taking into account the usual hyperbole about higher pricing in Canada (no rebate, much higher price, etc.)....so getting to it.....

Can anyone recommend a good Canadian source for picking up an AE900U???

I know the switcher and HDMI cables have had good remarks, but has anyone tried the component video cables?

That's all I use now. I haven't seen much, if any, difference when I did use HDMI.
So I couldn't justify the expense for a 30ft run.

Just my two cents

T

That's all I use now. I haven't seen much, if any, difference when I did use HDMI.
So I couldn't justify the expense for a 30ft run.

Just my two cents

T

Good to hear. I just ordered a AE900 and already have component lines run in the ceiling (dry wall -- and filled back in), and really didnt want to have to run HDMI unless it was truely heads and shoulders above component.

Jus thought i would chime in with my thoughts on this projector as well. I purchased it at the end of march but just recently finished my theater. So far i am loving the projector! this is my first one and its more then i could have hoped for. as soon as i get some pics of it in action i will post them. i haven't received my rebate yet but hopefully it will be coming soon. I think i am in the 7th week of them having now.

Oh by the way, here are some pics of the finished theater without the projector in action....

http://theblackangel74.shackspace.com/Theater/Theater%20003.jpg

http://theblackangel74.shackspace.com/Theater/Theater%20004.jpg

http://theblackangel74.shackspace.com/Theater/Theater%20005.jpg

I've had mine up and running for almost 6 months now. I love it! One thing that concerns me is whether it makes more sense to shut the unit down if I'm not going to be watching it for an hour or two. Or would it be less stressful on the lamp to leave it on? The manual seems to not address this issue. Any scientific inputs anyone can offer on this? And if there are no scientific inputs, what do y'all do when you want to walk away from the screen for an hour or two?

Anyone know of a ceiling mount that would allow me to mount my Panny upright instead of inverted as per the usual ceiling mount? I have a very low basement ceiling and my pj is mounted to an ibeam which brings it even lower. I guess I'm looking for something similar to what most of you use when you wall mount the projector but instead I would like to ceiling mount it, essentially a ceiling mounted shelf or platform. The pj runs quieter when operated in desktop mode and it is mounted not far from me so every little bit helps.

Moe

[QUOTE=TheBlackAngel]Oh by the way, here are some pics of the finished theater without the projector in action...



What size screen is that, and who is it by? What is the size of the room and how far back is the first row of chairs. By the way, great setup!!!

I have a cheap, $100 Sony progressive DVD player. Should I be sending my AE900 a progressive or interlaced signal? I'd imagine that the 900 has a better deinterlacer than my DVD player, right?

One more question: If I calibrate using AVIA (the original, non-HD version) through my DVD player, would those settings be good to use for when I watch HDTV?

I have a cheap, $100 Sony progressive DVD player. Should I be sending my AE900 a progressive or interlaced signal? I'd imagine that the 900 has a better deinterlacer than my DVD player, right?

Try it both ways and see which looks the best.

One more question: If I calibrate using AVIA (the original, non-HD version) through my DVD player, would those settings be good to use for when I watch HDTV?

You will most likely have to calibrate your projector for each input.

Oh by the way, here are some pics of the finished theater without the projector in action....

http://theblackangel74.shackspace.com/Theater/Theater%20003.jpg



What kind of chairs are those? They look very comfortable.

http://theblackangel74.shackspace.com/Theater/Theater%20003.jpg


Cool chairs, what kind are those? Starting to look for chairs like these..

Also, how is the experience with the color of your walls like that? The enclosed room we are making into our theater room is about that color and we are thinking about making it darker.

[QUOTE=TheBlackAngel]Oh by the way, here are some pics of the finished theater without the projector in action...



What size screen is that, and who is it by? What is the size of the room and how far back is the first row of chairs. By the way, great setup!!!


Thanks for the compliments! the screen is a Durotherm panel that i read about in the DIY screen section of the forums. Its just a 4'x8' panel you can buy at menards. i wasn't thinking right when i mounted it and i actually need to take it down and cut about 11" off of the side because its a little to long right now. The room is roughly 13' wide by 22' long. My first row is about 13' back from the screen.

Cool chairs, what kind are those? Starting to look for chairs like these..

Also, how is the experience with the color of your walls like that? The enclosed room we are making into our theater room is about that color and we are thinking about making it darker.

They are coaster studios. I got them from Serge here on the forums. They had a power buy recently with some really good prices.

I'm no professional and this is my first home theater setup, but i haven't noticed and adverse affects from the color of the walls. I calibrated the projector with avia and to me and everyone that has seen it so far, the colors look really good. I will try and take some shots of the projector in action tonight and get them posted.

I'm not sure if this is an issue with my Denon 1910 or the Panasonic 900. In some movies the voice is a bit behind the visual. Not on all movies but on some I do notice it more than on others. Most of the time I can't notice anything out of sync. I'm using a 15' HDMI cable for the video. I can't seem to find any threads on this and nothing in the manuals about it.

Any direction would be appreciated.

Quick rebate question - I just peeled off the UPC label from the cardboard and stuck it a piece of paper. Does that work, or do you actually have to cut the damn box open? Anyone sent in JUST the UPC label (sans cardboard backing) and have their rebate processed?

I've done that on other products, when I can get the UPC label off without tearing it. It worked just fine for those items. In other cases, I just cut the surface cardboard off, leaving the rest of the box intact.

I've had mine up and running for almost 6 months now. I love it! One thing that concerns me is whether it makes more sense to shut the unit down if I'm not going to be watching it for an hour or two. Or would it be less stressful on the lamp to leave it on? The manual seems to not address this issue. Any scientific inputs anyone can offer on this? And if there are no scientific inputs, what do y'all do when you want to walk away from the screen for an hour or two?
NOT a scientific or expert opinion here, just what I do: I turn it off to conserve bulb life. I've read from a previous projector (NEC HT100) on another AV Science forum thread that it takes hours for the bulb to cool and that it is not a good idea to turn it off and on with the bulb warm but I have no way of verifying this. I have left the projector on "shutter" and run out to the store for 15 minutes. The manual says that "shutter" can be used "momentarily" and for "short periods of time" with no explanation or guidance on what "momentarily" means or how long is a "short period of time."
I too would like to hear from other users. My gut instinct is half hour or less, leave it on; longer, turn it off. That's what I do.

I'm not sure if this is an issue with my Denon 1910 or the Panasonic 900. In some movies the voice is a bit behind the visual. Not on all movies but on some I do notice it more than on others. Most of the time I can't notice anything out of sync. I'm using a 15' HDMI cable for the video. I can't seem to find any threads on this and nothing in the manuals about it.

Any direction would be appreciated.

With all the digital processing going it is quite easy to lose synch since there are different signal paths with audio (I assume SPDIF) running to a reciever and video patched directly to the pj and processing in each path has different requirements.

Some recievers have adjustable delay/advance for the audio path. You could aso check to see whether your Denon has said control.

ted

With all the digital processing going it is quite easy to lose synch since there are different signal paths with audio (I assume SPDIF) running to a reciever and video patched directly to the pj and processing in each path has different requirements.

Some recievers have adjustable delay/advance for the audio path. You could aso check to see whether your Denon has said control.

ted


I'll take a look and see if I can find anything. I have a Denon AVR 3600 receiver, maybe there's something in there.

Thanks

TheBlackAngel,
That is a terrific setup! I'm curious to know though why the front speakers were mounted as high as they are?

But, more on topic, how do you find the black level of the ae900 with that screen?

"Or would it be less stressful on the lamp to leave it on? "

Rule of thumb is that every lamp start consumes .1% of life, so 2 hr for a 2000 hr lamp.

IOW, if you'll be watching it again withinb 2 hr, le3ave it on.

My 900u is on the way - with the good results of many members I also went the Costco route. It will be interesting to see if they continue to honor price drops after the rebate runs out in a day or two.

Here's my question - I have an isolation mount in my ceiling now covered with drywall. The pipe hole is aligned in the center of my screen to within some reasonable amount. Since I put this in before I had selected the Panasonic I didn't know that the lens would be offset a few inches.

I'm looking at the Chief RPA-225 mount for its low profile and adjustability. It has the LSB-100 lateral slide for horizontal offset as a $50 option. Do I need this to overcome this few inches of lens offset. Or can I adjust the projectors image using its internal lens offset. I don't want to use keystone correction so please take this into account.

Your insight is greatly appreciated,
Grant

TheBlackAngel,
That is a terrific setup! I'm curious to know though why the front speakers were mounted as high as they are?

But, more on topic, how do you find the black level of the ae900 with that screen?

Thanks for the compliment! the speakers are mounted that high because the wife wanted them close to the wire jacks and so they were even with each other. :rolleyes: As far as the black level i am still in such awe of the picture and everything i haven't had a chance to be picky with it ;) i feel they are very good though. What is supposed to be black comes across on the screen as black to me. They don't have a blueish tint or appear washed out, but i am also no professional and this is my first ever projector so i have nothing to compare it to either.

I also just got my rebate. I sent it in March 5. I guess they sent out a big batch.

FYI-
I just now received my $400.00 rebate and Blockbuster card. I sent in my rebate in early Feb. The Blockbuster card has an expiration date of April 2007.

Black angle.
Have you noticed any difference in sound moving from side to side in the front speakers?
I question this because i see your L/R are on a different plane than the center.

I have been running a phantom center(sounds awesome) but am thinking about using a center on a different plane. L/R in wall at ear level then Center in ceiling. Just the opposite of yours.
T

Black angle.
Have you noticed any difference in sound moving from side to side in the front speakers?
I question this because i see your L/R are on a different plane than the center.

I have been running a phantom center(sounds awesome) but am thinking about using a center on a different plane. L/R in wall at ear level then Center in ceiling. Just the opposite of yours.
T

I haven't noticed any adverse affects from having them mounted like that. I ran audio tests on them and everything sounds like its coming from where it should. Even in movies whats supposed to come out of the center sounds like it is and same with left and right.

"Or would it be less stressful on the lamp to leave it on? "
Rule of thumb is that every lamp start consumes .1% of life, so 2 hr for a 2000 hr lamp.
IOW, if you'll be watching it again withinb 2 hr, le3ave it on.
I always leave it on too. But, because of the heat, my question is: is it better to leave it with a white signal or in the shutter mode?

When you mounted your 900U did you center the lens on the screen physically or rely on the built in lens offset to compensate for a few inches.

My original question was #4908.

Grant

When you mounted your 900U did you center the lens on the screen physically or rely on the built in lens offset to compensate for a few inches.

My original question was #4908.

Grant
You want to get the center of the lense as close to the center of your screen as your setup allows, and then use the lense shift to tweak it into place. Just eyeball it, that's what the lense shift is there for.

I always leave it on too. But, because of the heat, my question is: is it better to leave it with a white signal or in the shutter mode?

You seem to be suggesting that the shutter mode is mechanical. If that is true then heat might be an issue but I'm not sure it is mechanical.

ted

Thanks Capek -
I have my post centered on the screen +/- 1/4 inch. Since some projectors have thier lenses centered I didn't offset ithe mounting post.

Does the horizontal lens shift cause hoizontal keystoning? If so, I'll spring for the option that includes some lateral adjustment.

Grant

Just wanted to post about my new AE900 that replaced my year old 700.

The same day that the projector arrived so did my Toshiba HD DVD player.

As I have always said here in this form, complaints about picture had really a lot more to do with the poor DVD compression than it ever did with the projector, and listening to people contantly tweaking the poor thing (700) on every single movie seemed maddening. Once I bought some "superbit" movies, did I really begin to believe that compression is the root of a bad picture, period.

Out of the box, these projectors produce a beautiful picture. The 900 is def a step up from the 700. I have watched two HD-DVD's and the picture is nothing short of perfect. So perfectly clear, movies now have depth, color etc. I have also seen a huge improvement in sound as well.

Before you go wasting time "tweaking" your projector, get a hold of an HD-DVD player and a couple of movies and you will see that your projector(s) is operating just fine with NO TWEAKING needed.

The only problem(if you can call it that) is that now the DVD's seem to have more like a 2.40 ratio so my 2.35 screen now runs alittle short.

So, bottom line, the panasonic AE900U and Toshiba HDDVD player = equal perfect bliss with no adjustment needed. Try it, you too will be stunned. This combo cleared up nearly ALL the issues I had with the 700. Want to hear true 5.1 channel separation at home...step to HD-DVD and hear the difference.

I'm looking to get the AE900 before I go back to college in August where I share a common room with 10 other guys where I'm setting up an HT for our group. I'm trying to let the price go down a little bit before I get it so I was wondering if I should worried about Panny coming out with a new model before then (while the improvements would be nice I need to keep the price down as much as possible). I apologize if this has been asked elsewhere before. Thanks!

I've heard the AE1100 will come out october/november in 1080p. No price announced.

Harmony remote owners:

How have you setup your remote to completely power off the Panny automatically (without having to confirm the 'Power Off" command) each and every time?

I'm usually pretty good at this stuff - but after trying to setup my Harmony 880 to completely power off the Panny (without having to confirm) has been somewhat frustrating to say the least.

Thanks for any feedback/help...

mikethewxguy:

With my Harmony 880, I simply chose the Panny 900 from their list (default) and it properly progresses through a power down sequence. It does ask for the OK confirmation, but shortly thereafter it automatically activates the "OK" and begins the cool down. Hope that helps!

Note: If I remember right, I typed the whole model number in at the Harmony site to choose it (PT-AE900U).

Finally got around to taking some shots of the projector in action. Some of them are a little dark as i don't know how to make the shutter stay open longer on my digital camera (or if its even an option). The only editing i did to the shots was to resize them so they weren't so large. All shots are in cinema 1 mode that i calibrated some with avia.

http://theblackangel74.shackspace.com/Theater/screen_shots%20005.jpg

http://theblackangel74.shackspace.com/Theater/screen_shots%20006.jpg

http://theblackangel74.shackspace.com/Theater/screen_shots%20009.jpg

http://theblackangel74.shackspace.com/Theater/screen_shots%20013.jpg

More can be found here (http://theblackangel74.shackspace.com/Theater)

diytheaterguy: thanks so much for the tip - I will try it just like you said here tonight. I didn't realize that the pj would automatically select the "okay" if nothing is selected within a set amount of time. Thanks again!

BTW, got the Toshiba HD DVD player (XA1) earlier this evening. WOW! No HD DVD titles for me as of yet (will be here tomorrow) but playing SW Episode III looked incredible - can't wait to see the HD DVD titles for the first time tomorrow night!

mbunting:

Just to clarify, I think it is the Harmony that automatically "clicks" the OK confirmation to begin the cool down. The Panny would just sit there and wait for it...

Don't think anyone has mentioned this... but the rebate has been extended, yet again, to June 30th this time. Both the $400 cash and the BB rentals.

Oops... sorry... I guess this was covered in another thread or two. Grr... my first post and I'm redundant.

I just received my rebate and blockbuster card which is good until 4/2/07. Fantastic!

I have a question regarding extended running times of AE900.

Since I got the projector my mates want to have a Star Wars(all 6 episodes) night & a LOTR(all 3 extended editions) night. When I say a night it means more like half a day.

There will be breaks after each movie & also for meals & stuff. But is it ok if I run the AE900 for an extended period like ~14 hrs?
eg: Star Wars : ~2:15 hrs - break - ~2.15 hrs - break - ~2.15 hrs - break - ~2.15 hrs - ~2.15 hrs - break - ~2.15 hrs. On each break turning it off.

Have any of you guys done this?

I have a question regarding extended running times of AE900.

Since I got the projector my mates want to have a Star Wars(all 6 episodes) night & a LOTR(all 3 extended editions) night. When I say a night it means more like half a day.

There will be breaks after each movie & also for meals & stuff. But is it ok if I run the AE900 for an extended period like ~14 hrs?
eg: Star Wars : ~2:15 hrs - break - ~2.15 hrs - break - ~2.15 hrs - break - ~2.15 hrs - ~2.15 hrs - break - ~2.15 hrs. On each break turning it off.

Have any of you guys done this?

Personally I would just leave it on. I have had it running this long several times and it is fine. You could do more damage by turning it off and on so many times.

Would like to know about kpothuwila's idea as well. Also how long each break? What's the minimum recommended time for us to wait before turning the AE900 back on?

Edit: NM. mdfuller answered my Q.

You seem to be suggesting that the shutter mode is mechanical. If that is true then heat might be an issue but I'm not sure it is mechanical.

ted

No, Ted. I'm suggesting that, when the LCD panels are blocking the light (in the shutter mode or in a non-signal mode), it would seem logical to think that they will be at a higher temperature that when they are allowing to pass the light (white signal). The same way that a black car in a sunny day gets hotter than a white car. Thanks for your answer, Fernando

I did a lotr marathon and shut the projector off half way through TTT. I left it off for 1 hour. I have found that I have to run the projector on high fan otherwise after about 4 - 5 hours I sporadically start to get momentary drops of the picture.

Ah so I suppose a good practice for a long session with the AE900 would be to leave the projector running but switch from low to high fan in-between breaks.

I have a question regarding extended running times of AE900.

Since I got the projector my mates want to have a Star Wars(all 6 episodes) night & a LOTR(all 3 extended editions) night. When I say a night it means more like half a day.

There will be breaks after each movie & also for meals & stuff. But is it ok if I run the AE900 for an extended period like ~14 hrs?
eg: Star Wars : ~2:15 hrs - break - ~2.15 hrs - break - ~2.15 hrs - break - ~2.15 hrs - ~2.15 hrs - break - ~2.15 hrs. On each break turning it off.

Have any of you guys done this?


Sounds fun, got any more room, I'll bring the beer or Bawls

Ah so I suppose a good practice for a long session with the AE900 would be to leave the projector running but switch from low to high fan in-between breaks.


Why? Run the fan at high speed the entire time it wont hurt anything. The projector will hit its maximum operating temp relatively quickly. Heat will not continue to build up w/ time provided that it is in a well ventilated area.

Thanx for the replies guys

I'll leave it it on high fan then. Its on a well ventilated area & the room temps are ~24C
I'll turn it off 1 or 2 times for ~30-45mins for the meals break(luch/dinner). Won't turn it off for small breaks.
During small breaks should I leave the projector working or should I close the shutter?
Whats the maximum time to leave the shutter closed?
When you close the shutter does that time still count towards the lamf life hours?

Sorry about all these questions but I don't wanna wreck the projector by leaving it on for so long

OK, I just got my AE900 hooked up. I switched from a regular 27" CRT.

A little about my setup. I have a 92" diag. Da-Lite High Power (I was persuaded by the HP thread posters, I am thrilled by the choice). The projector is on a shelf I built for the back wall. The projector lens and my eyes are about 12 feet from the screen. I have it in my living room, there is some ambient light.

OK, so it looks amazing!!!!!!!!!! Like a 92" Plasma. Black is black, white is white, every other color looks like the color. Right now Spider-Man's suit looks really red.

But it took some extensive tweaking. Here is what I did:

I (2) took it out of the box and (2) turned it on.

Seriously, all these videophiles with all their tweaking must have special eyes. (I merely have 20/20 vision.)

Any way, wow! Thanks for all the posters on here for helping me decide to get a FP and choose the Panny 900!

OK, I did make 1 change: switched the lamp to low power, which was barely noticeable.

Well I am finally about ready to mount my projector and had a question about the throw distance. I am wanting to have a 106" screen so I looked up the distance on the projection calculator and it said to have the projector at 21.4'. Now my problem is I don't have that much run so I want to mount it at 15'-16'. Does anybody think this will be a problem for the 106" screen? Does the 21.4' just mean max. distance it can be from the screen?

bri2003:

You are correct. The larger number is the max distance. If you use the calculator again and adjust the zoom slider you will be able to mount the PJ where you want it. You can go as close as 10.7 feet, but I would not place it quite so close, rather about where you mentioned to allow a "cushion" on either side of min and max. ENJOY!

George Montemayor and others (marathon sessions) -- Turning the PJ (any PJ) On and Off is more stressfull on the lamp than just leaving it on. The number of On-Off cycles will result in shorter lamp life than just leaving it turned on. If it does get turned off, it should be left off for a minimum of 2 hours.

Turning the fan to the High mode (during breaks), will help keep it cooler. Heat kills lamps too.

Closing the Iris will make it hotter. You might want to experiment with a different default background (from your DVD player - some let you select different screens or allow use of screen saver type images - or make an "Intermission" type slide show and burn it to a DVD).

If you're having a marathon session, it would be a good idea to clean the air filter(s) before you start the session. Dirty air filters also contribute to shorter lamp life. Clean the filter(s) again before the next use.

Thanks for the help diytheaterguy. You guys on here are very helpfully and fast with the replies.

Thanx for the info on marathon sessions CT_Wiebe.

I have a question regarding extended running times of AE900.

Since I got the projector my mates want to have a Star Wars(all 6 episodes) night & a LOTR(all 3 extended editions) night. When I say a night it means more like half a day.

There will be breaks after each movie & also for meals & stuff. But is it ok if I run the AE900 for an extended period like ~14 hrs?
eg: Star Wars : ~2:15 hrs - break - ~2.15 hrs - break - ~2.15 hrs - break - ~2.15 hrs - ~2.15 hrs - break - ~2.15 hrs. On each break turning it off.

Have any of you guys done this?

I use my PJ for at least 4 hours straight on days I work and probably more like 8-10 hours on my days off. If you are going to be using the PJ for long, long viewings all the time, get yourself the extended warranty that tapeworks is offering on this forum. I paid $260 and got a 4 year extention on the overall warranty and a 3 year (3 bulb total) bulb replacement warranty. That's why I use it now as my regular TV.

I feel sorry for you, I did the LOTR extended...I went to the chiropractor the next day. It was fun, but surprisingly painful to sit and watch all of them back to back.

If you are worried about the heat buildup, just put a cup of ice or other cold object in front of the air filter w/o blocking it. The cold air should help keep things a bit cooler, you know, if mixing water and expensive electronics are your thing. :cool:

One more thing, I just tried to search this thread for "response time" to find out what the LCD panel's response times are. Since it looks like no one asked that question before, does anyone know what the LCD panel's response times are or can anyone point me in the right direction to find it?

Closing the Iris will make it hotter. You might want to experiment with a different default background (from your DVD player - some let you select different screens or allow use of screen saver type images - or make an "Intermission" type slide show and burn it to a DVD).

The "Intermission" slide show is a good idea. I was actually just asking that question on another thread where the question was to leave on or not to leave on and I wondered if leaving on then what to leave on.

On another note. I have tried searches and seen discussions on other products descussing how to change the intro or welcome screens on the PJ or DVD player and I wondered if there is a thread where that is discussed for the 900 or if it is possible. I can't seem to find it using searches.

Thanks if anybody has any info

My new Panasonic 900 looks great when fed by the HD satellite (via HDMI), but my DVD component connection is messed up. Resolution is horrible and everything is red/pink! I have a fairly new Toshiba DVD player that is 720p capable (it also has "upconversion" though I don't know what that means).

I've double-checked the connections to make sure the colors match up, and that everything is securely attached.

Any ideas? I've searched through the threads and haven't come across anything.

Thanks for any help!

Sounds like a bad component cable. Try another cable to eliminate that possiblity.
You may also want to check your DVD settings via the menu.

Upconversion takes standard DVDs at 480p, and converts them to 720p, usually through HDMI, but some players use Component to do this. It's a beautiful picture via the Panny 900, you should definitely try it.

Peace and blessings,

Azeke

Sounds like a bad component cable. Try another cable to eliminate that possiblity.
You may also want to check your DVD settings via the menu.

Upconversion takes standard DVDs at 480p, and converts them to 720p, usually through HDMI, but some players use Component to do this. It's a beautiful picture via the Panny 900, you should definitely try it.

Peace and blessings,

Azeke


Thanks! Based on this I did some experimenting. Actually the cable is fine. I ran the compenent cable to the satellite receiver and it worked, and the HDMI to the DVD, and that works now as well. Weird. So something's not right at the component end of my DVD player. I'd rather use the HDMI for satellite TV as I watch TV much more than DVDs, but I guess I have to do it the other way around.

Of course, when I had both the component and HDMI hooked up, I went back and forth comparing the two. It seems that the colors are more vivid with the component cable, shouldn't it be the other way around? There was a baseball game on ESPN HD, and the red helmets were redder and the grass greener with the component cable. Overall picture a tad brighter with component.

The settings, on the AE900, are not the same for different inputs. This is why calibration of each source/conection/display is recommended.

If you want to use the Component inputs for your DVD player, you should buy a calibration DVD (like AVIA "Guide to Home Theater", Sound & Vision "Home Theater Tune Up", or the Monster/ISF HDTV Calibration Wizard). These will help you get the "DVD player through Component Input" to your AE900 set up correctly. The Sound & Vision one is the lowest cost. All of those have the instructions on the video, preceeding each test pattern/test function.

You mentioned that you have a Toshiba DVD player. Is this the new HD-A1 (HD-DVD) unit or one of the older ones (standard DVD)? If it's not the HD-A1, then you probably really want to use the HDMI for watching HDTV from your satellite feed.

NOTE: You might want to read the AE900 Tweek thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=589234) for some more details on setting up the AE900 with the component inputs.

My new Panasonic 900 looks great when fed by the HD satellite (via HDMI), but my DVD component connection is messed up. Resolution is horrible and everything is red/pink! I have a fairly new Toshiba DVD player that is 720p capable (it also has "upconversion" though I don't know what that means).

I've double-checked the connections to make sure the colors match up, and that everything is securely attached.

Any ideas? I've searched through the threads and haven't come across anything.

Thanks for any help!
When I first connected component cables from my dvd player to my panny 900, I had the same thing happen to me. Turns out I needed to open my dvd menu and change my selection from s-video to component, then the colors were fine.

I asked this on the DVD forum but maybe it's more appropriate here. I have a Panny 900 projector and a 119' screen. My Zenith DVB 318 player just died and I need to get a new one. Any thoughts on the OPPO 970 vs the 971? Which player do you think would be best for my setup? My other problem is that my Denon 3802 only does component switching so would need to get a switcher and/or a DVI/HDMI adapter.

I asked this on the DVD forum but maybe it's more appropriate here. I have a Panny 900 projector and a 119' screen. My Zenith DVB 318 player just died and I need to get a new one. Any thoughts on the OPPO 970 vs the 971? Which player do you think would be best for my setup? My other problem is that my Denon 3802 only does component switching so would need to get a switcher and/or a DVI/HDMI adapter.
I bought the NeuNeo DVD player since it does upconversion on component and I did not need to have another expensive long cable to the projector. It does pretty good and upscales to 1080p but the panny is only capable of 720p. It's another alternative for you to look at since you won't have to spend another $150 in a long HDMI cable. It's doing the job for me until Blu-ray/HD-DVD works itself out.

mason -- The Oppo 970 appears to be a better (jury is still out) player. However, the 971 is HDCP free and the 970 is not. With the AE900, this should not make a difference. The other thing is that the 971 is also region free, and I haven't read up on the 970 to know if it is also region free.

There is no real reason that you have to send the DVD player's video output through the Denon since all you need to connect is the digital (coax or optical) sound output to the Denon. The video output can go straight to the AE900. My Pioneer receiver only has component switching too, and I bypass (video) the receiver also - no problems (you just have to configure the Denon correctly. I use the CD selector for the DVD player's digital audio. That way all you need (for the Oppo DVI video output) is a DVI-D to HDMI cable to connect to the AE900. Monoprice has some very good, inexpensive, ones.

As for the upconverting output, you need to try both the 1080i and 720p settings to see which one looks better. Just because the AE900 is a 720p PJ does not mean that the 720p signal will look better - it should, but it may not.

Don't think anyone has mentioned this... but the rebate has been extended, yet again, to June 30th this time. Both the $400 cash and the BB rentals.

Oops... sorry... I guess this was covered in another thread or two. Grr... my first post and I'm redundant.

Just prayin my wife has a big closing (real estate) for me to join the Panny club! ;)

Thanks for the advice g0189 and CT. Just for everyone's info, here's the response Oppo sent me:

Most users who have a PT-AE900U will go with the OPDV971H for the simple
reason that it has the better de-interlacer and scaler chipset of the
two DVD players. This is important because you are throwing an image
which is more than 60". The larger the picture area, the more
discernable it is to tell the difference between good, and great,
de-interlacing and post processing.

Any other opinions are appreciated.

Just purchased my panny from Visual Apex - should be here on Wednesday.

I'm way over budget on my HT construction so looking at a DIY screen. The room will be fully light controlled (no windows). Loved the colors on the 2 demos I've seen but would love it better if blacks could be alittle more blacker.

Going with 16:9 with 88" or 92" diagonal.

Can anyone recommend a screen fabric / vendor?

Just purchased my panny from Visual Apex - should be here on Wednesday.

I'm way over budget on my HT construction so looking at a DIY screen. The room will be fully light controlled (no windows). Loved the colors on the 2 demos I've seen but would love it better if blacks could be alittle more blacker.

Going with 16:9 with 88" or 92" diagonal.

Can anyone recommend a screen fabric / vendor?
The stuff you can buy off of ebay works great. I just tacked it up on my wall and haven't felt the need to deal with it again.

The settings, on the AE900, are not the same for different inputs. This is why calibration of each source/conection/display is recommended.

If you want to use the Component inputs for your DVD player, you should buy a calibration DVD (like AVIA "Guide to Home Theater", Sound & Vision "Home Theater Tune Up", or the Monster/ISF HDTV Calibration Wizard). These will help you get the "DVD player through Component Input" to your AE900 set up correctly. The Sound & Vision one is the lowest cost. All of those have the instructions on the video, preceeding each test pattern/test function.

You mentioned that you have a Toshiba DVD player. Is this the new HD-A1 (HD-DVD) unit or one of the older ones (standard DVD)? If it's not the HD-A1, then you probably really want to use the HDMI for watching HDTV from your satellite feed.

NOTE: You might want to read the AE900 Tweek thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=589234) for some more details on setting up the AE900 with the component inputs.

Thanks. As it turns out, my DVD player only upconverts through HDMI, so I should use HDMI for DVD. But I also want to run my satellite receiver through HDMI, so I have ordered a cheap manual HDMI switch from Monoprice. All the customer reviews say it works and give it a 10 out of 10. It should help, too, that I am using short runs, 3 feet to the switch, and 3 feet back out to the projector. (I could even use shorter cables if they were available.) If I suffer signal loss I will be back to complain!

UPDATE: The under $30 manual switch from Monoprice works perfectly. (BestBuy.com sells an equivalent switch for $100!) There is also an automatic powered one for more, but since I only watch 1-2 DVDs a week, I didn't need an extra electrical cord cluttering things up.

The stuff you can buy off of ebay works great. I just tacked it up on my wall and haven't felt the need to deal with it again.

I'm using a painted screen (BEHR Ultra Pure White) and am very satisfied. I like the image better than when projecting onto my Da-Lite 2.0 gain. CHEAP too!!! :D

Where is a good place to find replacement air filters for the 900?

Has anyone received a letter from the rebate company indicating their serial # was invalid? I tripled checked everything from number on projector to number on box to number on receipt and all were the same. They made me fax in a picture of my units serial # so they could verify. Thanks!!

Falcore1 -- You don't need to replace them, just clean them (vacuum cleaner or wash them in mild soap & water - make sure they're dry before puting them back in). The filters should last a long time.

You probably would have to order new filters direct from Panasonic.

Has anyone received a letter from the rebate company indicating their serial # was invalid? I tripled checked everything from number on projector to number on box to number on receipt and all were the same. They made me fax in a picture of my units serial # so they could verify. Thanks!!

Yes. I received one of these too. So I got :mad: :mad: :mad:

I called, waited a few minutes on hold and they confirmed that they entered the info twice and my other one was still processing - not to worry. They also said they were waiting on more gift cards so it'll be a bit longer. So I waited another two-three weeks more and then got the check and the BB card. They were pretty nice on the phone.

So give them a call and see what they say. (search this thread for the phone number, it's some place around February or so)

Add me to the 900 club! Bought it from Projector People and it should be delivered tomorrow. I'm going with a 120" 2.35 screen (Carada) and plan on an anamorphic lens too (probably the Panammorph U80). I haven't even went to demo this projector. For the money, after the rebate and Blockbuster card, I just can't see how anything could top this based on the reviews and good press it has received.

And, by buying this "cheaper" projector now, I left the door wide open to upgrade to a 1080p in a few years. My wife even went along with that one! WOO-HOO!

I'm using a painted screen (BEHR Ultra Pure White) and am very satisfied. I like the image better than when projecting onto my Da-Lite 2.0 gain. CHEAP too!!! :D

Is your room fully light-controlled, or occasionally has some background light (sun, lamp, etc)? I've been projecting on a plain (but textured) white wall, and I'd like to make everything a bit... what, brigher? punchier? Did you sand the wall flat to remove textured paint before appling the BEHR Ultra Pure White?

I did sand the texture off the wall. I put about 3-4 coats of primer and then 2 coats of the BEHR. I'm fully light controlled, but watch HD sporting events with the can lights on about 20% and have no problem. I can watch DVD with the cans on about 10%.

In comparing my painted wall to the 2.0 gain Da-lite, I can tell a very slight difference in brightness, but not worth it to me.

so the Blockbuster card is only for rentals??

so the Blockbuster card is only for rentals??
Yes.

The card states that it is good for 40 video or game rentals. This is kinda rubbing me the wrong way. I bought the projector for a $400.00 rebate and a $300.00 Blockbuster rental card, not $400.00 and 40 rentals.

Anyone else feel the same way!

The card states that it is good for 40 video or game rentals. This is kinda rubbing me the wrong way. I bought the projector for a $400.00 rebate and a $300.00 Blockbuster rental card, not $400.00 and 40 rentals.

Anyone else feel the same way!

Not me, because I'm so happy with this AE900U puppy, that no incentives are required. This "made in Japan" wonder (not China) has so many quality features (Aluminum Lens housing, Lens shift, hepa filter, no RBE headaches, on and on...) that it surprizes me that other projector makers don't require incentives to buy their stuff.

The picture I get from this projector and my Sony DVP NS3100ES with its BTB output, give me inky blacks and incredible color fidelity, even out of the box. And, the HDMI manual switcher and 35' monoprice cable I connect my DVD player and HDTV Tuner to works great as well.

So, I (for one) ain't complainin! :)

I agree with Digvid.

I bought mine before the rebates and I still think it was a great value. I love my Panny.

Elio

The card states that it is good for 40 video or game rentals. This is kinda rubbing me the wrong way. I bought the projector for a $400.00 rebate and a $300.00 Blockbuster rental card, not $400.00 and 40 rentals.

Anyone else feel the same way!
in my town, blockbuster charges 2 dollars a rental, so I really got an 80 dollar rental card.

Where is a good place to find replacement air filters for the 900?Just a note to let you know that a new air filter is included in the box with the replacement lamp (Panasonic ET-LAE900). Same with the AE700's lamp.

My AE900U was due today - but rescheduled until tomorrow. Sat in a damn UPS depot in Redmond, WA and the 5 days to get MD :(

Personally the Rebate, Free Shipping & No Tax made this a great deal for me. Blockbusters sucks thats why I use Netflix.

Anyone out there used the Behr "Silverscreen" (770E-2) with the Panny? Thinking of using this for a starter - thought can't lose for price of can paint while I get screen samples.

Has anyone received a letter from the rebate company indicating their serial # was invalid? I tripled checked everything from number on projector to number on box to number on receipt and all were the same. They made me fax in a picture of my units serial # so they could verify. Thanks!!

I got this same **** letter today - what a joke. Obviosuly someone there can't do the job right with these rebates.

It's good to hear that you have been getting the rebate even after this - but I'm still perplexed :)

I will be calling/faxing/sending everything I got to them again tomorrow. Gonna take a pic of the serial # on the unit as well - thanks for posting that tidbit of info!!!

Mike

The card states that it is good for 40 video or game rentals. This is kinda rubbing me the wrong way. I bought the projector for a $400.00 rebate and a $300.00 Blockbuster rental card, not $400.00 and 40 rentals.

Anyone else feel the same way!

Just think how we feel up here in Canada. The best price up here for the AE900 is roughly $1300 more than the price in the US. If you buy it at the right time Panasonic Canada will throw in a free bulb, but still almost a $1000 difference. Be happy! Watch movies.

My AE900U was due today - but rescheduled until tomorrow. Sat in a damn UPS depot in Redmond, WA and the 5 days to get MD :(

Personally the Rebate, Free Shipping & No Tax made this a great deal for me. Blockbusters sucks thats why I use Netflix.

Anyone out there used the Behr "Silverscreen" (770E-2) with the Panny? Thinking of using this for a starter - thought can't lose for price of can paint while I get screen samples.

My 900 was due today too, but I missed the FedEx guy and signature is required. So, I'm waiting until tomorrow.... :(

My 900 was due today too, but I missed the FedEx guy and signature is required. So, I'm waiting until tomorrow.... :(

I'm the same boat except mine was due yesterday. Of course being I have to work, I can't be home to sign for it. So I called them to have them hold it so I can drive down to Fedex myself and pick it up.

I had mine delivered to work. Always someone around to sign for it. :)

Slowly pulling together the theater together, and it's looking great...but I've run into a problem: redish horizontal lines slowly scrolling up the screen during HD cable use.

Using component connections, and it's only visible on on normal TV/Cable viewing (haven't tried the ps2 yet), and the bars can hardly be seen on black screens (during The Simpsons end-credits, for example), or the black bars on the left and right. Doesn't happen with HDMI/DVD player. It's got to be a setting that can be adjusted (I can't select Overscan in the Menu to see if that will change things--I'm not sure why).

Thanks in advance, I've learned a ton already!

My AE900U was due today - but rescheduled until tomorrow. Sat in a damn UPS depot in Redmond, WA and the 5 days to get MD :(

Personally the Rebate, Free Shipping & No Tax made this a great deal for me. Blockbusters sucks thats why I use Netflix.

Anyone out there used the Behr "Silverscreen" (770E-2) with the Panny? Thinking of using this for a starter - thought can't lose for price of can paint while I get screen samples.


I did and I still do when I'm feeling lazy. I got a Da-Lite HP screen and it makes a huge difference. On the other hand, as long as you have almost no ambient light, the silverscreen will work nicely.

Anyone out there used the Behr "Silverscreen" (770E-2) with the Panny? Thinking of using this for a starter - thought can't lose for price of can paint while I get screen samples.

I didn't use the Behr but I did use a good quality paint. I originally had white and it looked really good but thought the blacks were a bit grey. I got some light grey paint and painted half the screen. After it dried a bit I ran Sleepy Hollow which of course is very dark. It was clear to see the huge difference in the appearance of black on the screen and being able to see it side by side. I saw no "down side" to other colors by doing this. I also found a foam roller in full size to roll it on to try and get it as smooth as possible.

Not a bad way to start anyway, you can always hang a "proper" screen over the paint later :)

Yeah, I felt the same way, what have I got to use and I also painted a bl;ack border which IMO improved the appaearance a lot. Not big on Blockbuster either but for free sure. Just got my rebate and check from 3/1. Long wait.

Good Luck

Thanks guys - I'll try the Behr "Silverscreen" - got samples coming from Carada - need to order from Da-Lite too. Anyone else I should send off for samples?

Checked UPS site and its 'OUT FOR DELIVERY ' :D

Does the Main Power switch in the back NEED to be turned off after each use, or is just shutting the lamp/fan off via the power switch (or remote) on top of the unit sufficient? I ask cause it'll be a little tough to reach behind the unit with how I plan on mounting the projector.

Checked UPS site and its 'OUT FOR DELIVERY ' :D

Mark, that was me. I have a buddy in the IT group at UPS and told him modify the tracking progress to get your hopes up....

Just kiddin'. I assume you're watching something as I type this.

Bud

Bud - received late this afternoon (5.30pm) but going to refrain from opening until after my Brownie camping weekend at Hershey (otherwise we would not be going)......now need to try not to view tooooo much so I can finish the room

I've missed mine the past 2 days. NO way I'm missing it tomorrow!

Does the Main Power switch in the back NEED to be turned off after each use, or is just shutting the lamp/fan off via the power switch (or remote) on top of the unit sufficient? I ask cause it'll be a little tough to reach behind the unit with how I plan on mounting the projector.

You don't have to turn it off at the main power ALL the time but I would occasionally. I've noticed that my Panny will start to act glitchy, iris flickers, colors go a little weird, after long periods of not turning it off at the main power switch. Once I hit the power switch everything goes back to normal. I don't know if that's everyone's experience but it's been mine with both units I've had.

Elio

Does anyone know how to tweak out the yellow tinge in the color. The sound and vision review mentioned that it was an easy fix but I have no clue on how to do it. I did look in the AE900 tweak thread and couldnt find any mention of this so any help would be appreciated.

I'm thinking about getting this PJ ans setting it up on a mantle. The mantle is 12'' deep. Is this enough to accommodate the PJ and the cables in the back?

Thanks!

Since I didn't get any assist on my last question, I'll ask about the latest ground loop issue. I've got a house built in 1942 with no grounding (it's causing banding on the hdtv). Is there a way to ground an outlet/single room? Does anyone know of a way to 'trick' the plugs into thinking they are being grounded? Can I false ground it?

I'm thinking about getting this PJ ans setting it up on a mantle. The mantle is 12'' deep. Is this enough to accommodate the PJ and the cables in the back?

Thanks!

I have mine set on a 14" shelf, and the front feet barely fit. My cables are what take up the extra distance-especially if you use stiffer, thicker, higher end cables.

I'm thinking about getting this PJ ans setting it up on a mantle. The mantle is 12'' deep. Is this enough to accommodate the PJ and the cables in the back?

Thanks!

I made a "bookcase" that I put on my wall with all my AV equipment. It's 16 inches deep.

With the cables bending as much as they should reasonably bend, I measure 15 inches from the back to the front of the lens.

(BTW if you can use something with a top and sides, it will reduce the dust exposure.)

Since I didn't get any assist on my last question, I'll ask about the latest ground loop issue. I've got a house built in 1942 with no grounding (it's causing banding on the hdtv). Is there a way to ground an outlet/single room? Does anyone know of a way to 'trick' the plugs into thinking they are being grounded? Can I false ground it?There's no way to "trick" electricity (you will only trick yourself). You can ground a room, if all of the outlets are on the same electrical circuit. The only way to do it legally (for fire insurance purposes, as well as for resale) is to hire an electrical contractor to do it for you. You will also need to change all of the outlets in the room too.

Since I didn't get any assist on my last question, I'll ask about the latest ground loop issue. I've got a house built in 1942 with no grounding (it's causing banding on the hdtv). Is there a way to ground an outlet/single room? Does anyone know of a way to 'trick' the plugs into thinking they are being grounded? Can I false ground it?

If you are only concerned about interference, not proper grounding, then try "false-grounding" by running the grounding wire from the outlet grounding screw to the grounding screw on the metal outlet box (you will probably have to drill a hole to attach a screw, or replace the box).

Although, it probably wouldn't cost too much to hire an electrician to ground a single outlet if you don't want to do it yourself. It's a fairly simply job when you already have all the passageways and openings cut and drilled. They will also have to ground the circuit breaker, but that just involves running a grounding wire to your main plumbing pipe or a grounding stake (proper grounding depends on your local building code). But then for future outlets you want to ground, you won't have to do it again. And these things will increase the value of your home.

Thanks guys - I'll try the Behr "Silverscreen" - got samples coming from Carada - need to order from Da-Lite too. Anyone else I should send off for samples?

Checked UPS site and its 'OUT FOR DELIVERY ' :D

save yourself all the trouble and order the dalite highpower from jason at avs. the samples are too small and the hp too good to pass up, especially with the price from avs.

my 2 cents worth

Dave

save yourself all the trouble and order the dalite highpower from jason at avs. the samples are too small and the hp too good to pass up, especially with the price from avs.

my 2 cents worth

Dave


The HP is a fantastic screen for a low price. However, since it's retroreflective you will lose some "wow" if you ceiling mount.

QUESTIONS:

1)My ceiling is 8'. I am `planning' on having a lo-profile mount on my Panny when I buy it later this summer. My screen will be 10'-11' away. 100".
It will start roughly 3 ft from the floor and go up to roughly 1 ft from the ceiling.

SHould I get a mount with more of a drop? OR is there enough shift for the Panny to line up with the screen when the projector is roughly 1/2ft above the top of the screen???

BEST screen for the $$ between $600-$800(prefer 100" 92" at the smallest!)??

Anyone know of a ceiling mount that would allow me to mount my Panny upright instead of inverted as per the usual ceiling mount? I have a very low basement ceiling and my pj is mounted to an ibeam which brings it even lower. I guess I'm looking for something similar to what most of you use when you wall mount the projector but instead I would like to ceiling mount it, essentially a ceiling mounted shelf or platform. The pj runs quieter when operated in desktop mode and it is mounted not far from me so every little bit helps.

Moe


Moe,
Try this from Home Depot. I have the exact same situation
Peerless
Universal Television Ceiling Mount
Model CDS20

Fits All Manufacturer's 19-20 in. televisions. 125 lb. load rating. Attractive "contemporary" style. Adjustable tilt (0 deg.-10 deg.). 360 deg. rotation. Includes ceiling TV mount, ceiling plate, fasteners for wood joists.
This is the link:

http://www.homedepot.com/prel80/HDUS/EN_US/jsearch/product.jsp?pn=101210

Since I have a steel load bearing support pole that has a decorative oak cover around it running verticle from floor to ceiling to where I was going to ceiling mount the Panny. I decided to buy the AVF Vector wall mount also from Home Depot and used stainless strapping to secure the mount around the pole. It is kind of cheesy looking but my basement ceiling has a soffit with ducts right where the ideal spot is to ceiling mount the Panny so this was a compromise.