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Optoma HD81 DLP Projector Review

by Clint DeBoer last modified July 24, 2008 19:29
Optoma HD81 DLP Projector Review

Optoma HD81 DLP projector

Summary

  • Product Name: HD81 DLP Projector
  • Manufacturer: Optoma
  • Performance Rating: StarStarStarStar
  • Value Rating: StarStarStar
  • Review Date: November 21, 2006
  • MSRP: $9999
Specifications

Brightness: 1400 ANSI lumens (high power mode)
Contrast: Up to 10,000:1 (full on/off)
Resolution: 1920 x 1080 native HD resolution
Aspect Ratio: Widescreen native 16:9 aspect ratio (4:3 compatible) 1.85 – 2.22:1 throw ratio
Supported Screen Size: 30-300 inches diagonal (theoretical)
DLP Technology: Single 0.95” DarkChip3 LVDS DMD
Video Processing: Gennum GF9351 chipset
Optical System: 6x speed (180Hz) 7-segment color wheel (RGB, RGB, W)
Iris: 16-step auto iris (defeatable)
Offset (of vertical height): 27%
Computer Compatibility: SXGA, XGA, SVGA, VGA Compression; VESA Standards; PC and Macintosh Compatible
Scanning Formats: 480i/576i/1080i and 480p/576p/720p/1080p/24/60
Video Inputs (projector): HDMI, RS-232
Video Inputs (processor):
Three HDMI (plus one HDMI expansion), dual component video, dual BNC (YPbPr/RGBHV) video, three s-video, three composite video, VGA
Misc Connections: RS-232, IR port extension, two +12V triggers
Projection Lens
: 1.2x Manual Zoom and Focus; F = 2.6 ~ 2.82, f = 39.12 ~ 46.94mm

Lamp: 300W UHP; 2000 hr life
Mounting: ceiling, desk, front/rear (menu configurable)
Keystone Correction: +/- 5 degrees vertical (digital)
Power Supply: 90-264 volts, 50-60Hz
Power Consumption: 250 watts (maximum)
Operating Temperature: 41 – 95 degrees F (5 – 35 degrees C); 80% max humidity (no condensation)
Fan: 32dB noise level
Projection Method: Front/rear/ceiling mount/table-top
Uniformity Ratio: 90% (center-to-corner)
Remote Control: Backlit IR remote Control with source selection, AAA x 2 batteries
Standard Accessories
: Two AC Power Cords, Two HDMI Cables (one jumper), Component Cable, Two RS-232 Cables, Remote Control, Batteries for Remote, External IR Module, User’s Manual, Lens Cap, Warranty Card and Quick Start Card
Optional Accessories: Ceiling mount, carrying case, GrayWolf II series screens, and Gold Service warranty
Dimensions (projector): 16” x 4.6” x 12.2” in (406 x 117 x 310 mm)
Dimensions (processor): 17” x 2.5” x 12” in (432 x 63.5 x 305 mm)
Weight (projector): 10 lbs (4.5 kg)
Weight (processor): 9.2 lbs (4.2 kg)
Warranty: 3 years limited parts and labor; 90 days lamp


Pros

  • True native 1080p DLP
  • Deep blacks, rich colors
  • Outboard video processor with numerous inputs and Gennum VXP processing
  • Consumer adjustment of RGB gain, cut and gamma
  • Backlit remote

Cons

  • Weak 1.2x Zoom Lens
  • No lens shift
  • Slow switching between formats/inputs
  • Manual zoom/focus
  • Loud fan
  • Loud auto-iris with delayed response
  • Requires long RS-232 serial cable for proper installation (not included)
  • Frequent HDCP errors
  • Locked ISF picture modes

Introduction

The HD81 is not just a projector. It combines an excellent optical display system with an advanced external video processor that handles, among other things a host of inputs from composite all the way up to HDMI and RGBHV/component.
  1. HD81 Overview Basic Setup
  2. HD81 Connections, Remote & Menu System
  3. HD81 Glitches, Calibration & Benchmarks
  4. Optoma HD81 Viewing Evaluation and Conclusion