In 2007, Sony first introduced a digital cinema system capable of projecting ultra-high resolution “4K” images with 8.8 million pixels (4096 X 2160)---a four-fold increase over conventional HD. This September, cumulative shipments of this Sony projection system set a new record in crossing the 10,000 unit mark.
Sony’s projection system is based on a unique ultra-high resolution LCD component device known as “4K SXRD” (Silicon X-tal Reflective Display). Digital cinema projection systems mainly consist of a “projector” to display the image, a “server” to store content and a “media block” to seamlessly reproduce content. Sony is the only company in the industry that develops and sells all three elements. Sony’s integrated projection system is the world’s first DCI spec compliant system.
*DCI: Digital Cinema Initiatives, LLC (A joint venture of the six major Hollywood studios). Sony’s system is not only certified as compliant with DCI specs for protecting invaluable content (including “4K” content), but also offers additional advantages such as Theater Management System (TMS) with the power to simultaneously control multiple projection systems and CineWatch™ which makes it possible to monitor the system remotely. Sony has remained dedicated to the digitalization of movie theaters, including providing maintenance and operational support---even providing financial schemes, in certain regions, to enable theaters to adopt digital systems.
Sony’s comprehensive power has continued to receive high marks across the industry leading to shipments in excess of 10,000 systems today. Sony’s system has been adopted not only by Regal Entertainment, AMC and National Amusement in the US, but also by VUE and CinemaxX in Europe, Megabox and Cinus in South Korea and by T-Joy, Toho and 109 Cinemas in Japan.
Sony will continue to support the digitalization of theaters in terms of both software and hardware so that moviegoers are not only entertained, but also emotionally moved in new ways as Sony continues to enhance and redefine the excitement of the movie theater experience.
