DLP HDTV 3D FAQ
Last updated: 04-10-2010
Please note this document is a work in progress see bottom of this post for complete log of revisions. I compiled this FAQ out of frustration for not being able to find this information in a centralized location. In compiling this document I’ve contacted several companies including: Samsung, DDD, Texas Instruments, NVIDIA and IZ3D. Effort has been made to ensure all information presented here is correct but if you find some information to be incorrect please post and I will make changes and log accordingly.
General Questions
Q: What is DLP HDTV 3D?
A: Rear Projection DLP HDTV 3D is a relatively new implementation of 3D LCD ‘shutter’ technology. Powered LCD shutter glasses are synchronized with the television/display alternating what the left-eye and right-eye see creating the illusion of depth. The current DLP HDTV 3D implementation calls for the display to have 120hz refresh with 60hz devoted to each side rendered in High Definition 1080p the end result is what many believe to be an unsurpassed 3D effect.
The DLP 3D spec. is really two different specs./techniques (i.e., for front projectors and rear projection TVs). For DLP 3D-ready rear projection TVs (with 1080p native resolution) the 3D input signal must use a 1080p checkboard format at a 60 Hz refresh rate that is then processed within the RPTV to create individual one half resolution (960H x 1080v) right and left images that are both displayed every 1/60 sec. (thus the right and left images are each individually displayed 1/120 sec.). Please note: The information in this FAQ has been compiled for Rear Projection DLP HDTVs owners. I would like to expand this FAQ to juxtapose consumer grade Front projection DLP and Rear projection 3D DLP, but I do not have time to do this research. If someone would like to contribute in this area you can do so by sending me a private message where alterations... Professional grade DLP front projection systems are beyond the scope of this FAQ.
Q: Hasn’t this technology been around a while?
A: LCD 3D ‘shutter’ technology has been around for many years and has had select implementation (e.g. PC gaming) however the enhancement in quality of the effect provided by 120hz-60hz split/’checkerboard’ technique presented in 1080p makes this a stand out new technology worth checking out and getting excited about.
Q: How do I know if my HDTV supports DLP HDTV 3D?
A: As of this writing DLP HDTV 3D is available on all 1080p capable DLP Rear Projection televisions manufactured from 2008 forward. The same technology is also supported on select 120hz DLP HD front projectors and select 2009 120hz Samsung Plasma televisions. If your set supports this technology you should find a 3D input port located with the other inputs on the back or side panel of your television; consult your televisions Users Guide.
Q: Is their a standard for DLP/HD 3D?
A: There is a standard created by Texas Instruments for all OEMs who license their DLP technology. Samsung & Mitsubishi are acting as OEMs of this technology through their DLP HDTV products. However, there is no general industry standard for HDTV 3D. Standards usually imply a consortium of industry leaders coming together and agreeing on specific implementations and that has yet to happen with 3D. Although not equipped with Texas Instruments components, Samsung has extended the same 3D technique (apparently adhering to DLP 3D compatibility without violating Texas Instruments patents) to their 120hz Plasma line. As of this writing, the 3D input port found on all 3D equipped DLP and Plasma displays is identical and not vendor specific. UPDATE: 04-07-2010: The 3D shutter glasses designed for the new 2010 products are designed for 240hz displays and are not compatible with DLP 3D IR transmitters. this company continues to sell IR transmitters and glasses that DLP 3D.
UPDATE: 04-06-2010
Two important 3D related standards were finalized in 2009
The HDMI 1.4 standard was finalized which includes support for 3D up to 1080p.
The Blu-Ray Disc Association (BDA) finalized a 3D standard for storage
Following the huge success of the 2009 3D film AVATAR, 3D finally took the spot light at CES 2010. Vendors have already begun bringing new LCD/LED based 3D products to market in 2010 that support the new standards.
Q: Is the DLP 3D standard compatible with the 3D technology found in the new 2010 model LCD/LED 3D televisions?
A: No. The new television displays use a similar but different approach that provides higher resolution. The 2010 3D televisions are also HDMI 1.4 compliant.
Q: Will I be able to use a new 3D Blu-Ray player with my DLP 3D Ready television?
A: No because the new 3D Blu-Ray players coming to market in 2010 will require a display to have an HDMI 1.4 input to receive 3D data. However Mitsubishi announced at CES 2010 they are developing an adapter (Mitsubishi 3DC-1000) that should make this possible with all 1080p DLP 3D Ready Mitsubishi and Samsung DLP 3D HDTVs that are lacking HDMI 1.4. Let's hope Mitsubishi follows through with plans to release this device. Note: It appears adapter will not work with 720p 3D DLP RP HDTVs from Samsung (HL-T4675S, HL-T5075S. PN42A450, PN50A450, PN42B450, and PN50B450)
Q: I've heard that 3D broadcast will begin in 2010 over DirectTV... Will my DLP 3D HDTV display these broadcast?
A: According to "industry insiders" (well according to this article ) Mitsubishi 3D adapter mentioned above will also provide DLP 3D compatibility for the DirectTV HDTV 3D sit top boxes. NOTE: Mitsubishi has indicated their upcoming 3D adapter box (Mitsubishi 3DC-1000) will (at least in part) support the HDMI 1.4 3D standards as input and output DLP 3D (1920x1080p @ 60hz 'checkerboard'), specific support for DirectTV 3D sit top boxes and 3D Blu-Ray standards were mentioned. This would mean a broad range of compatibility with 2010 (and future) 3D devices.
Q: When will the Mitsubishi adapter (Mitsubishi 3DC-1000) be available for purchase and how much will it cost, where can I buy one?
A: As of April 7, 2010 Mitsubishi customer support has said the 3DC-1000 will be available for purchase June 2010. At CES 2010 a Mitsubishi representative stated the 3DC-1000 will cost around $100. Mitsubishi customer support has said the 3DC-1000 will be available for purchase through the Mitsubishi parts department
Q: Technically what is the difference in quality between the new 2010 LCD 3D displays and DLP 3D?
As with all HD content on DLP sets, DLP 3D relies on wobulation which results in half horizontal resolution. DLP televisions run at 120Hz (split in two at 60Hz for 3D content), the new LCD 3D capable displays are running at 240Hz (split to 120Hz for 3D content). The end result is the newer displays are capable of producing a higher resolution (full HD 1080p) image at 120Hz for 3D content. 120Hz divides evenly into 24 which allows for 3D content in 1080p at 24 fps on the newer displays... Having said that, at average viewing distance (5-7 feet) it's questionable how much the resolution difference will be noticed. Since DLP technology always relies requires some form of 3:2 pull down for film content there will always be more 'judder', but aside from the normal artifacts associated with that (which is a reality with all 2D HD film content on DLP HDTV sets as well) DLP 3D content running at 60Hz and LCD 3D content running at 120Hz will be indistinguishable to the human eye. To most people there will most likely be little noticeable difference.
Q: Are there any 3D DVD/Blu-Ray movies available that support this technology?
A: Monsters vs Aliens was released on Blu-Ray 3D March 2010 as an an exclusive pack-in with the Samsung 3D Start Kit (not compatible with DLP 3D), this thread includes information on other titles to be released in 2010, almost all of which are exclusive to bundles for specific vendor products. . The majority of 3D movies you see available at retail currently (e.g. Spy Kids 3D, Journey To The Center of The Earth 3D, Polar Express 3D, etc…) are using the traditional anaglyph 3D technique which requires the left and right lens be chromatically opposite colors (usually red/cyan lenses), this 3D technique has been around for decades and does not compare to the modern 3D technique obtained with synchronized LCD shutter glasses at 120hz found in 3D capable HDTVs. At CES 2008 Mitsubishi announced plans to bring a ‘3D Blu-Ray player’ to market. Mitsubishi demoed a working prototype of the unit which could not only play Made-for-3D Blu-Ray releases but could also convert non-3D Blu-Ray films to 3D in real-time. The Mitsubishi 3D Blu-Ray player has yet to hit the market. At CES 2009 Panasonic demonstrated a similar 3D Blu-Ray player prototype but provided no information on when the product might hit the streets. UPDATED 02-05-08: There are few DVD titles available that support this technology you can find a list here. The titles that are available on DVD must be played through an HTPC that meets the minimum requirements (see below) at 1920x1080p 60/hz in order to enable the 3D feature on the HDTV.
Q: Are there any XBox 360/PS2/PS3/Wii games available that support this technology?
A: No. While there may be console games marketed as '3D' such games are using the traditional anaglyph (color lenses) technique and are not compatible with the LCD shutter glasses/DLP 3D techology. It should be noted that the PS3 and XBox 360 consoles are capable of outputting 1920x1080p @60hz and technically could support DLP HDTV 3D, however no publishers have announced titles that will support this technology. UPDATE 04-06-2010: Sony has announced through firmware support the PS3 will support Blu-Ray 3D. Sony has not announced if they will publish games to support this technology, but it's being speculated that they will.
Q: Are there any PC games that support this technology
A: Yes, in fact many modern PC games will work and be converted to 3D in real-time without the need for a patch, however you will need to purchase a DLP 3D driver from IZ3D (free to ATI Radeon owners) or purchase the NVidia GeForce 3D Vision kit. DDD/TriDef also provides 3D drivers for select games which must be per game. Each solution here offers a different approach on the same technique and can be used interchangeably, PC games are not exclusively tied to one 3D driver, so you can them all and see which one works best. See section below What can do with my DLP 3D HDTV right now?
Q: How well does the real-time 3D conversion of DVDs work?
A: The effect is not as good as content produced for this application and varies a bit depending on what DVD is playing. The real-time 3D playback software (e.g. TriDef Media Player) generally provides depth controls to allow you to calibrate the 3D effect, but ultimately each scene is going to be rendered differently. The real-time 3D DVD conversion process seems to work better with live-action movies than animated films.
Q: How well does the real-time 3D conversion of PC games work?
A: Since most modern PC games are developed using Direct3D or OpenGL libraries a 'depth buffer' already exist in video memory, the PC game 3D conversion software taps into video memory and detects the depth of the objects being rendered on screen and transforms them for stereoscopic 3D display. As result, many PC games look amazing and very accurate in 3D.
Q: Can I use the Samsung 3D Shutter glasses and TriDef Experience software with a Mitsubishi 3D DLP television?
A: Yes. The glasses will connect and work fine with Mitsubishi and Samsung 120hz DLP sets. The vendor of the TriDef software (DDD) had this to say “While we do not officially support Mitsubishi DLP televisions, we’ve heard many reports from users who’ve had good luck”. It should be noted that DDD Software is in partnership with Samsung. As mentioned above the 3D implementation between Samsung & Mitsubishi DLP televisions is standardized and all hardware and software should work on either vendor’s displays without compatibility problems.
Q: Can I use the NVIDIA GeForce 3D Vision glasses/software with a 120hz Samsung DLP television?
A: Yes. In similar case to the partnership Samsung has with DDD on the TriDef software, Mitsubishi apparently has an agreement in place with NVIDIA so that the GeForce 3D Vision product is marketed for Mitsubishi DLP owners and not for Samsung DLP owners, however NVIDIA has confirmed the product is compatible with all 120hz 3D DLP displays.
Q: Is DLP 3D the same as RealD 3D technology used in digital cinema? How does DLP 3D compare to RealD 3D?
A: RealD and DLP 3D us a similar but different techniques to create a 3D effect. RealD relies on non-active polarized lenses and a single 144hz-capable display using ‘circular polization’ the display is ‘split’ into two 72hz images which alternate for left-eye, right-eye (at 144hz) and a transparent LCD filter is placed in front of the projector lens to create the needed effect for the polarized lenses to create a 3D effect. In contrast, DLP 3D relies on (active) LCD shutter glasses which are synchronized with the 3D DLP HDTV through an IR transmitter, projecting two 60hz images that are alternated for left eye, right-eye at 120hz. The end result has RealD and DLP 3D technologies as incompatible but ultimately of similar quality.
Q: Where can I buy additional LCD Shutter glasses
A: If you purchased the Samsung 3D Kit You can purchase additional LCD Shutter glasses compatible with the Samsung IR transmitter here
Q: How many LCD 3D glasses can be used on a single IR transmitter?
A: Any pair of 3D LCD shutter glasses that are compatible with your IR transmitter and are within the range of the transmitter will work, there is no limit. HDTVs are only equipped with a single 3D port designed for one IR transmitter.
Q: What is the range of the 3D IR transmitter?
A: According to the manual supplied with the Samsung SSG1000 kit the IR transmitter should be within 9.8' of the glasses (NOTE: I have tested 11' back with no problem)
Q: What can I do with DLP HDTV 3D right now?
A: DDD (TriDef Experience) provides software that you can use to convert any non-3D DVD to 3D using their real-time conversion process (Blu-Ray & HD-DVD are not supported), TriDef Experience also supports real-time 3D for many popular PC games. DDD has an on-line store where they sale their software products as well as DLP 3D LCD shutter glasses.
Find more information about TriDef Exeprience here
http://www.ddd.com/
iz3d provides a HDTV/DLP 3D compatible driver that works with many PC games, currently their DLP 3D driver is free to ATI Radeon video card owners, but will also work with NVIDIA graphic cards that are HTPC compliant. You can learn more here:
http://www.iz3d.com/
Similar to the iz3d driver, the NVIDIA GeForce 3D Vision product includes a pair of DLP 3D compatible LCD shutter glasses and software that works exclusively with select NVIDIA graphic cards to convert many PC games to 3D in real-time. More information can be found at the hyperlink below:
http://www.nvidia.com/object/GeForce...sion_Main.html
EDimenshional is an on-line retailer/vendor that sales DLP 3D LCD shutter glasses and other 3D products (be aware some of their 3D offerings are NTSC/Non-HD based, read product descriptions carefully)
http://www.edimensional.com/index.php
Berezin is an on-line retailer that sales many 3D related products including DLP 3D specific products (as with EDimenshional, be aware some products sold by this company are not designed for DLP 3D and use more traditional 3D approaches). As mentioned above, everything marketed for Samsung 3D will work fine with Mitsubishi's DLP 3D capable sets as well.
http://www.berezin.com/3D/samsung3d.htm
Q: Which works better for real-time PC gaming in 3D: the NVidia GeForce 3D Vision kit or the IZ3D DLP driver?
A: I can only comment on the IZ3D DLP 3D driver and say that it is amazing what this product does for the small price they are asking. Esepcially if you own an ATI video card, AMD/ATI has an agreement with IZ3D so that they provide their IZ3D driver for free. NVIDIA video card owners only have to pay around $50 USD. In comparison the NVIDIA 3D kit comes with software and a single pair of LCD shutter glasses which are compatible with DLP HDTVs, but they aren't compatible with other vendors glasses or any other software, which means you're stuck with a single pair (no split screen 3D gaming) and while the $200 USD price is reasonable for all you get many feel the IZ3D driver is just a much better value overall and many who've done side by side comparisons perfer the IZ3D quality as well. Keep in mind, each solution offers a different list of games that are supported.
Q: What kind of HTPC (Home Theater Personal Computer) is required for DLP/HDTV 3D?
A: Here are the suggested minimum requirements:
Troubleshooting
Q: Can I connect my PC/Notebook to my TV using a VGA to HDMI adapter?
A: If the adapter can handle 1920x1080p @60 hz (some can not) then it should be possible.... If anyone gives this a try, please report back success/failure.
Q: Will any DVI to HDMI cable work?
A: No, there are many DVI to HDMI cables that do not support 1920x1080p @60z. Look for a 'high speed' or 1080p capable DVI to HDMI cable. Monoprice.com is a good place to buy from.
Q: Why is the 3D option on my television is grayed out/disabled?
A: The television will only enable 3D option when a 3D compatible resolution:refresh rate is set on the input single. Current software requires 1920x1080p with 60hz refresh. Make sure your video card is set to 1920x1080p 60hz and is connected to appropriate HDMI port (see HDTV owners manual for specific HDMI port to use)
Q: When I switch to 1920x1080p @60hz my screen has sever display problems, but all other resolutions work including 1920x1080i?
A: The most likely cause is your DVI to HDMI cable. 1920x1080p @60hz requires more bandwidth than some cables can handle.
Q: There seems a lot involved in getting 3D to work with my television, can you describe the process in detail.
A: Below is a step by step list of what you'll need to get going
Q: Will the new 2010 Samsung 3D Glasses starter kit
work with DLP 3D HDTVs?
A: No you will need to buy the Samsung 3D Kit (SSG1000) which is now discontinued. As of April 2010 this company sells IR transmitters and Shutter glasses compatible with DLP 3D HDTVs.
Revision log:
02-05-09 Restored from backup
Last updated: 04-10-2010
Please note this document is a work in progress see bottom of this post for complete log of revisions. I compiled this FAQ out of frustration for not being able to find this information in a centralized location. In compiling this document I’ve contacted several companies including: Samsung, DDD, Texas Instruments, NVIDIA and IZ3D. Effort has been made to ensure all information presented here is correct but if you find some information to be incorrect please post and I will make changes and log accordingly.
General Questions
Q: What is DLP HDTV 3D?
A: Rear Projection DLP HDTV 3D is a relatively new implementation of 3D LCD ‘shutter’ technology. Powered LCD shutter glasses are synchronized with the television/display alternating what the left-eye and right-eye see creating the illusion of depth. The current DLP HDTV 3D implementation calls for the display to have 120hz refresh with 60hz devoted to each side rendered in High Definition 1080p the end result is what many believe to be an unsurpassed 3D effect.
The DLP 3D spec. is really two different specs./techniques (i.e., for front projectors and rear projection TVs). For DLP 3D-ready rear projection TVs (with 1080p native resolution) the 3D input signal must use a 1080p checkboard format at a 60 Hz refresh rate that is then processed within the RPTV to create individual one half resolution (960H x 1080v) right and left images that are both displayed every 1/60 sec. (thus the right and left images are each individually displayed 1/120 sec.). Please note: The information in this FAQ has been compiled for Rear Projection DLP HDTVs owners. I would like to expand this FAQ to juxtapose consumer grade Front projection DLP and Rear projection 3D DLP, but I do not have time to do this research. If someone would like to contribute in this area you can do so by sending me a private message where alterations... Professional grade DLP front projection systems are beyond the scope of this FAQ.
Q: Hasn’t this technology been around a while?
A: LCD 3D ‘shutter’ technology has been around for many years and has had select implementation (e.g. PC gaming) however the enhancement in quality of the effect provided by 120hz-60hz split/’checkerboard’ technique presented in 1080p makes this a stand out new technology worth checking out and getting excited about.
Q: How do I know if my HDTV supports DLP HDTV 3D?
A: As of this writing DLP HDTV 3D is available on all 1080p capable DLP Rear Projection televisions manufactured from 2008 forward. The same technology is also supported on select 120hz DLP HD front projectors and select 2009 120hz Samsung Plasma televisions. If your set supports this technology you should find a 3D input port located with the other inputs on the back or side panel of your television; consult your televisions Users Guide.
Q: Is their a standard for DLP/HD 3D?
A: There is a standard created by Texas Instruments for all OEMs who license their DLP technology. Samsung & Mitsubishi are acting as OEMs of this technology through their DLP HDTV products. However, there is no general industry standard for HDTV 3D. Standards usually imply a consortium of industry leaders coming together and agreeing on specific implementations and that has yet to happen with 3D. Although not equipped with Texas Instruments components, Samsung has extended the same 3D technique (apparently adhering to DLP 3D compatibility without violating Texas Instruments patents) to their 120hz Plasma line. As of this writing, the 3D input port found on all 3D equipped DLP and Plasma displays is identical and not vendor specific. UPDATE: 04-07-2010: The 3D shutter glasses designed for the new 2010 products are designed for 240hz displays and are not compatible with DLP 3D IR transmitters. this company continues to sell IR transmitters and glasses that DLP 3D.
UPDATE: 04-06-2010
Two important 3D related standards were finalized in 2009
The HDMI 1.4 standard was finalized which includes support for 3D up to 1080p.
The Blu-Ray Disc Association (BDA) finalized a 3D standard for storage
Following the huge success of the 2009 3D film AVATAR, 3D finally took the spot light at CES 2010. Vendors have already begun bringing new LCD/LED based 3D products to market in 2010 that support the new standards.
Q: Is the DLP 3D standard compatible with the 3D technology found in the new 2010 model LCD/LED 3D televisions?
A: No. The new television displays use a similar but different approach that provides higher resolution. The 2010 3D televisions are also HDMI 1.4 compliant.
Q: Will I be able to use a new 3D Blu-Ray player with my DLP 3D Ready television?
A: No because the new 3D Blu-Ray players coming to market in 2010 will require a display to have an HDMI 1.4 input to receive 3D data. However Mitsubishi announced at CES 2010 they are developing an adapter (Mitsubishi 3DC-1000) that should make this possible with all 1080p DLP 3D Ready Mitsubishi and Samsung DLP 3D HDTVs that are lacking HDMI 1.4. Let's hope Mitsubishi follows through with plans to release this device. Note: It appears adapter will not work with 720p 3D DLP RP HDTVs from Samsung (HL-T4675S, HL-T5075S. PN42A450, PN50A450, PN42B450, and PN50B450)
Q: I've heard that 3D broadcast will begin in 2010 over DirectTV... Will my DLP 3D HDTV display these broadcast?
A: According to "industry insiders" (well according to this article ) Mitsubishi 3D adapter mentioned above will also provide DLP 3D compatibility for the DirectTV HDTV 3D sit top boxes. NOTE: Mitsubishi has indicated their upcoming 3D adapter box (Mitsubishi 3DC-1000) will (at least in part) support the HDMI 1.4 3D standards as input and output DLP 3D (1920x1080p @ 60hz 'checkerboard'), specific support for DirectTV 3D sit top boxes and 3D Blu-Ray standards were mentioned. This would mean a broad range of compatibility with 2010 (and future) 3D devices.
Q: When will the Mitsubishi adapter (Mitsubishi 3DC-1000) be available for purchase and how much will it cost, where can I buy one?
A: As of April 7, 2010 Mitsubishi customer support has said the 3DC-1000 will be available for purchase June 2010. At CES 2010 a Mitsubishi representative stated the 3DC-1000 will cost around $100. Mitsubishi customer support has said the 3DC-1000 will be available for purchase through the Mitsubishi parts department
Q: Technically what is the difference in quality between the new 2010 LCD 3D displays and DLP 3D?
As with all HD content on DLP sets, DLP 3D relies on wobulation which results in half horizontal resolution. DLP televisions run at 120Hz (split in two at 60Hz for 3D content), the new LCD 3D capable displays are running at 240Hz (split to 120Hz for 3D content). The end result is the newer displays are capable of producing a higher resolution (full HD 1080p) image at 120Hz for 3D content. 120Hz divides evenly into 24 which allows for 3D content in 1080p at 24 fps on the newer displays... Having said that, at average viewing distance (5-7 feet) it's questionable how much the resolution difference will be noticed. Since DLP technology always relies requires some form of 3:2 pull down for film content there will always be more 'judder', but aside from the normal artifacts associated with that (which is a reality with all 2D HD film content on DLP HDTV sets as well) DLP 3D content running at 60Hz and LCD 3D content running at 120Hz will be indistinguishable to the human eye. To most people there will most likely be little noticeable difference.
Q: Are there any 3D DVD/Blu-Ray movies available that support this technology?
A: Monsters vs Aliens was released on Blu-Ray 3D March 2010 as an an exclusive pack-in with the Samsung 3D Start Kit (not compatible with DLP 3D), this thread includes information on other titles to be released in 2010, almost all of which are exclusive to bundles for specific vendor products. . The majority of 3D movies you see available at retail currently (e.g. Spy Kids 3D, Journey To The Center of The Earth 3D, Polar Express 3D, etc…) are using the traditional anaglyph 3D technique which requires the left and right lens be chromatically opposite colors (usually red/cyan lenses), this 3D technique has been around for decades and does not compare to the modern 3D technique obtained with synchronized LCD shutter glasses at 120hz found in 3D capable HDTVs. At CES 2008 Mitsubishi announced plans to bring a ‘3D Blu-Ray player’ to market. Mitsubishi demoed a working prototype of the unit which could not only play Made-for-3D Blu-Ray releases but could also convert non-3D Blu-Ray films to 3D in real-time. The Mitsubishi 3D Blu-Ray player has yet to hit the market. At CES 2009 Panasonic demonstrated a similar 3D Blu-Ray player prototype but provided no information on when the product might hit the streets. UPDATED 02-05-08: There are few DVD titles available that support this technology you can find a list here. The titles that are available on DVD must be played through an HTPC that meets the minimum requirements (see below) at 1920x1080p 60/hz in order to enable the 3D feature on the HDTV.
Q: Are there any XBox 360/PS2/PS3/Wii games available that support this technology?
A: No. While there may be console games marketed as '3D' such games are using the traditional anaglyph (color lenses) technique and are not compatible with the LCD shutter glasses/DLP 3D techology. It should be noted that the PS3 and XBox 360 consoles are capable of outputting 1920x1080p @60hz and technically could support DLP HDTV 3D, however no publishers have announced titles that will support this technology. UPDATE 04-06-2010: Sony has announced through firmware support the PS3 will support Blu-Ray 3D. Sony has not announced if they will publish games to support this technology, but it's being speculated that they will.
Q: Are there any PC games that support this technology
A: Yes, in fact many modern PC games will work and be converted to 3D in real-time without the need for a patch, however you will need to purchase a DLP 3D driver from IZ3D (free to ATI Radeon owners) or purchase the NVidia GeForce 3D Vision kit. DDD/TriDef also provides 3D drivers for select games which must be per game. Each solution here offers a different approach on the same technique and can be used interchangeably, PC games are not exclusively tied to one 3D driver, so you can them all and see which one works best. See section below What can do with my DLP 3D HDTV right now?
Q: How well does the real-time 3D conversion of DVDs work?
A: The effect is not as good as content produced for this application and varies a bit depending on what DVD is playing. The real-time 3D playback software (e.g. TriDef Media Player) generally provides depth controls to allow you to calibrate the 3D effect, but ultimately each scene is going to be rendered differently. The real-time 3D DVD conversion process seems to work better with live-action movies than animated films.
Q: How well does the real-time 3D conversion of PC games work?
A: Since most modern PC games are developed using Direct3D or OpenGL libraries a 'depth buffer' already exist in video memory, the PC game 3D conversion software taps into video memory and detects the depth of the objects being rendered on screen and transforms them for stereoscopic 3D display. As result, many PC games look amazing and very accurate in 3D.
Q: Can I use the Samsung 3D Shutter glasses and TriDef Experience software with a Mitsubishi 3D DLP television?
A: Yes. The glasses will connect and work fine with Mitsubishi and Samsung 120hz DLP sets. The vendor of the TriDef software (DDD) had this to say “While we do not officially support Mitsubishi DLP televisions, we’ve heard many reports from users who’ve had good luck”. It should be noted that DDD Software is in partnership with Samsung. As mentioned above the 3D implementation between Samsung & Mitsubishi DLP televisions is standardized and all hardware and software should work on either vendor’s displays without compatibility problems.
Q: Can I use the NVIDIA GeForce 3D Vision glasses/software with a 120hz Samsung DLP television?
A: Yes. In similar case to the partnership Samsung has with DDD on the TriDef software, Mitsubishi apparently has an agreement in place with NVIDIA so that the GeForce 3D Vision product is marketed for Mitsubishi DLP owners and not for Samsung DLP owners, however NVIDIA has confirmed the product is compatible with all 120hz 3D DLP displays.
Q: Is DLP 3D the same as RealD 3D technology used in digital cinema? How does DLP 3D compare to RealD 3D?
A: RealD and DLP 3D us a similar but different techniques to create a 3D effect. RealD relies on non-active polarized lenses and a single 144hz-capable display using ‘circular polization’ the display is ‘split’ into two 72hz images which alternate for left-eye, right-eye (at 144hz) and a transparent LCD filter is placed in front of the projector lens to create the needed effect for the polarized lenses to create a 3D effect. In contrast, DLP 3D relies on (active) LCD shutter glasses which are synchronized with the 3D DLP HDTV through an IR transmitter, projecting two 60hz images that are alternated for left eye, right-eye at 120hz. The end result has RealD and DLP 3D technologies as incompatible but ultimately of similar quality.
Q: Where can I buy additional LCD Shutter glasses
A: If you purchased the Samsung 3D Kit You can purchase additional LCD Shutter glasses compatible with the Samsung IR transmitter here
Q: How many LCD 3D glasses can be used on a single IR transmitter?
A: Any pair of 3D LCD shutter glasses that are compatible with your IR transmitter and are within the range of the transmitter will work, there is no limit. HDTVs are only equipped with a single 3D port designed for one IR transmitter.
Q: What is the range of the 3D IR transmitter?
A: According to the manual supplied with the Samsung SSG1000 kit the IR transmitter should be within 9.8' of the glasses (NOTE: I have tested 11' back with no problem)
Q: What can I do with DLP HDTV 3D right now?
A: DDD (TriDef Experience) provides software that you can use to convert any non-3D DVD to 3D using their real-time conversion process (Blu-Ray & HD-DVD are not supported), TriDef Experience also supports real-time 3D for many popular PC games. DDD has an on-line store where they sale their software products as well as DLP 3D LCD shutter glasses.
Find more information about TriDef Exeprience here
http://www.ddd.com/
iz3d provides a HDTV/DLP 3D compatible driver that works with many PC games, currently their DLP 3D driver is free to ATI Radeon video card owners, but will also work with NVIDIA graphic cards that are HTPC compliant. You can learn more here:
http://www.iz3d.com/
Similar to the iz3d driver, the NVIDIA GeForce 3D Vision product includes a pair of DLP 3D compatible LCD shutter glasses and software that works exclusively with select NVIDIA graphic cards to convert many PC games to 3D in real-time. More information can be found at the hyperlink below:
http://www.nvidia.com/object/GeForce...sion_Main.html
EDimenshional is an on-line retailer/vendor that sales DLP 3D LCD shutter glasses and other 3D products (be aware some of their 3D offerings are NTSC/Non-HD based, read product descriptions carefully)
http://www.edimensional.com/index.php
Berezin is an on-line retailer that sales many 3D related products including DLP 3D specific products (as with EDimenshional, be aware some products sold by this company are not designed for DLP 3D and use more traditional 3D approaches). As mentioned above, everything marketed for Samsung 3D will work fine with Mitsubishi's DLP 3D capable sets as well.
http://www.berezin.com/3D/samsung3d.htm
Q: Which works better for real-time PC gaming in 3D: the NVidia GeForce 3D Vision kit or the IZ3D DLP driver?
A: I can only comment on the IZ3D DLP 3D driver and say that it is amazing what this product does for the small price they are asking. Esepcially if you own an ATI video card, AMD/ATI has an agreement with IZ3D so that they provide their IZ3D driver for free. NVIDIA video card owners only have to pay around $50 USD. In comparison the NVIDIA 3D kit comes with software and a single pair of LCD shutter glasses which are compatible with DLP HDTVs, but they aren't compatible with other vendors glasses or any other software, which means you're stuck with a single pair (no split screen 3D gaming) and while the $200 USD price is reasonable for all you get many feel the IZ3D driver is just a much better value overall and many who've done side by side comparisons perfer the IZ3D quality as well. Keep in mind, each solution offers a different list of games that are supported.
Q: What kind of HTPC (Home Theater Personal Computer) is required for DLP/HDTV 3D?
A: Here are the suggested minimum requirements:
- Intel Core 2 Duo (2.0ghz+) or comparable AthlonTM 64 X2 Dual-Core CPU
- NVIDIA® GeForce 6600 or ATI RadeonTM X800
(as a general guide line: video card must have at least 512-MB of RAM, DVI or HDMI output and support 1920x1080 output at 60hz) - Windows® XP, Vista 32 bit recommended
Troubleshooting
Q: Can I connect my PC/Notebook to my TV using a VGA to HDMI adapter?
A: If the adapter can handle 1920x1080p @60 hz (some can not) then it should be possible.... If anyone gives this a try, please report back success/failure.
Q: Will any DVI to HDMI cable work?
A: No, there are many DVI to HDMI cables that do not support 1920x1080p @60z. Look for a 'high speed' or 1080p capable DVI to HDMI cable. Monoprice.com is a good place to buy from.
Q: Why is the 3D option on my television is grayed out/disabled?
A: The television will only enable 3D option when a 3D compatible resolution:refresh rate is set on the input single. Current software requires 1920x1080p with 60hz refresh. Make sure your video card is set to 1920x1080p 60hz and is connected to appropriate HDMI port (see HDTV owners manual for specific HDMI port to use)
Q: When I switch to 1920x1080p @60hz my screen has sever display problems, but all other resolutions work including 1920x1080i?
A: The most likely cause is your DVI to HDMI cable. 1920x1080p @60hz requires more bandwidth than some cables can handle.
Q: There seems a lot involved in getting 3D to work with my television, can you describe the process in detail.
A: Below is a step by step list of what you'll need to get going
- DLP LCD 3D Glasses & IR emitter - like those found here
- A PC with at least 512-MB of video memory capable of outputting 1920x1080p at 60hz smoothly over DVI (see minimum requirements above)
- A 1080p capable DVI to HDMI cable to connect the PC to your HDTV like the one found here
- 3D software to allow the computer to spend the required data to the TV (like the TriDef software found in this kit. Or the DLP 3D driver for games available here)
- Connect the IR emitter to the television and turn on the LCD shutter glasses within range, make sure the computer is set to 1920x1080p @60hz, make sure the 3D software on the computer is on/doing what it's suppose to do then enable the 3D feature of your HDTV using your HDTV remote.
Q: Will the new 2010 Samsung 3D Glasses starter kit
work with DLP 3D HDTVs?A: No you will need to buy the Samsung 3D Kit (SSG1000) which is now discontinued. As of April 2010 this company sells IR transmitters and Shutter glasses compatible with DLP 3D HDTVs.
Revision log:
02-05-09 Restored from backup
- 04-06-2010 Updated to include information on broadcast and Blu-Ray 3D.
