Resolution is one of the key performance parameters of a projector, and the projector industry continuously aims to increase it. Native high resolution in projectors demands spatial light modulators (SLMs) with a very high pixel count. Such a high pixel count may either be realized as a physical large SLM device or as an SLM with higher pixel density. Physical large SLM devices implies larger optical paths and thereby also a more expensive projection unit, and higher pixel densities also present some challenges.
One alternative way of achieving higher resolution is to enhance the resolution above the native resolution of the SLM by utilizing a pixel shifting technology. The pixel shifting technology have gained some momentum in the market, and several companies have introduced pixel sharing in different flavors. This method is increasing the spatial resolution, but it is not without its challenges.
In this presentation we will go through the differences of native 4K and 4K UHD achieved through pixel shifting technique. One of the inherent challenges with pixel shifting techniques is that it usually degrades the framerate capability of the projector. We will also discuss the temporal challenges of the pixel shifting technology and how this may be addressed in some applications. Since 4K UHD potentially trades between spatial and temporal resolution, we will also discuss 4K UHD 60Hz vs WQXGA 120Hz.
Svein Arne Hansen, Barco
Svein Arne Hansen is an FPGA engineer in the projection division of Barco, and has extensive experience from image processing and system design. Svein Arne earned his master degree at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology in 2007, and have been in the projector industry since 2010. He is currently engaged in a PhD in resolution enhancement techniques for projected displays at the University College of Southeast Norway, and is combining this research with the engineering position at Barco.
