Panasonic Model: RZ21K
Achieving a seamless and bright projection for large events can be a game-changer. Whether it’s for a general session or a large conference, mastering the art of double stacking and blending projectors is essential. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of setting up and optimizing Panasonic 20K RZ21K projectors twenty (20) feet in the air.
Table Of Contents:
Dealing with the Client
Equipment Overview
Setting Up the Rigging System
Double Stacking Projectors
How to Double Stack Projectors
Calibration
Conclusion
Dealing with the Client
As soon as you arrive on-site, it's crucial to connect with the client to confirm the setup details. If the client has provided an AutoCAD drawing or other information in advance, review it thoroughly to ensure that you have a clear understanding of their expectations and requirements.
Quick Story:
Once, I picked up a projection gig with minimal information. It seemed not well-organized and kind of a last-minute setup. Upon arrival, we unloaded three 26-foot trucks but quickly realized we were missing one more truck with the crucial equipment, including the projectors. It turned out that the driver, who was supposed to bring the remaining gear, woke up late and arrived four hours late for a 9 AM call.
Use the AutoCAD drawing to plan the placement of the projectors, signal flow, rigging points, and any other critical elements. This will help you visualize the setup and identify any potential challenges early on.
(Example of a floor plan that has a rough draft of what's going on and notes on signal flow)
Quick Tip:
When using AutoCAD to determine the locations for your projects, make sure to bring along the Bosch GPL100-30G next time you're setting up for an event. Use its green beams to quickly and accurately position your equipment. This will not only speed up your setup process but also ensure that your projector is pointing in the right direction.
Equipment Overview
Before we dive into the setup process, let's go over the essential equipment for this setup:
Panasonic 20K RZ21K projectors (x4) 108LBS/ea
Lens (x4)
Truss
GAC Flex Wire Rope with D-Ring Shackle (x2)
Dual Swivel Clamp for 50mm Tubing (x8) 1000 Load Capacity/ea
Laptop
Interface
Laser Pointer
Laser Rangefinder - Leupold RX-1600i TBR
Dog House (Power Distribution Box) - Outlet box for audio, video, or lighting equipment.
L21 Cable 100' (3)
L21 Cable 50' (3)
Atem constellation 1m/e
Wireless Router
Network Switcher 8 Port
Ethernet 150' (2)
Ethernet 50' (2)
SDI Cable 200' (3)
SDI Cable 6'(4)
SDI Distribution - Blackmagic (x2)
Overall look of what it looks all put together.
Setting Up the Rigging System
First, ensure your rigging system is securely installed by the hotel riggers and have them set up at the desired height of 5 feet or so. We usually call this the "working height".
(So imagine this off the ground about 5'. We can mount
Speakers, Projectors, and even Lighting on a rigging system)
Trim Height
What is Trim Height?
Trim height refers to the final, operational height at which a truss or other rigged elements are positioned during an event. This is the height at which lights, speakers, screens, and other equipment are set to perform optimally, providing the best visibility and coverage for the audience.
Quick Story:
Last weekend, I was setting up for a conference at Hotel 1 in Miami Beach. Running on autopilot from my last show, I assumed the trim height for the trusses would be the usual 25 feet. Without confirming, I went ahead and measured out my L21-30 100-foot cable accordingly.
When we started to take the trusses up in the air, I quickly realized they were stopping at 20 feet instead of 25. This five-foot difference left me with an unexpected 5 feet of slack in the cable. Managing the extra slack was a hassle, requiring me to coil and secure it to keep the setup clean and safe.
This experience was a stark reminder of the importance of verifying details. Next time, I’ll double-check the trim height to avoid unnecessary work and ensure a smooth setup.
Double Stacking Projectors
What is Double Stacking?
Double stacking involves placing two projectors in a vertical arrangement, where both projectors are aimed at the same screen or surface. This configuration allows the light output from both projectors to combine, resulting in a brighter image than what a single projector can achieve.
Why Use Double Stacking?
Increased Brightness: The primary reason for double stacking is to enhance the brightness of the projected image. This is particularly beneficial in large venues such as hotel ballrooms, conference centers, auditoriums, or outdoor events where higher luminosity is needed to ensure the image is clearly visible even in well-lit environments.
Improved Visibility: In large spaces, the projected image can appear dim or washed out if the projector's brightness is insufficient. Double stacking helps maintain a clear and vibrant image, making presentations, videos, or other visual content more effective and engaging.
How to Double Stack Projectors
To ensure proper alignment of the projectors within their cages, follow these steps:
1. Mounting the Cage: Start by attaching four clamps to the projector cage. Once the clamps are securely attached, lift the cage and mount it onto the truss.
2. Setting Working Height: The riggers will have already set the truss with the attached cage to a working height of approximately 5 feet.
3. Double-Checking Alignment with a Laser: Use a laser level, such as the Bosch GPL100-30G, to ensure the truss and the mounted cage are level and correctly aligned. This will make the subsequent steps of positioning the projectors easier and more accurate.
4. Raising the Cage: Have the riggers raise the truss with the attached cage about 2 feet higher, creating enough space to position the second projector underneath.
5. Positioning the Second Projector: With the first cage now at approximately 7 feet off the ground, bring the second projector underneath it. Given that each projector weighs about 108 pounds, this step requires at least two people to lift and position the projector accurately.
6. Aligning the Projectors: Align the projectors by fitting the pins of the cage into the corresponding slots of the second projector. This ensures that both projectors are perfectly aligned with each other.
7. Securing the Setup: Once aligned, secure the projectors together by attaching the safety cable using a D shackle. This step is crucial for ensuring the stability and safety of the setup.
By following these steps, you ensure a precise and secure alignment of your projectors, facilitating an effective and professional AV setup.
Calibration
Many projectors come with alignment tools and features to help with this process. Calibrate the projectors to ensure color and brightness uniformity.
This may require adjusting the settings of each projector and giving them an ID for each proejctor for better control. There are software tools to fine-tune the alignment and synchronization of the images.
By following these steps and using a laser level to double-check your alignment before positioning the heavy projectors, you ensure a precise and secure alignment, facilitating an effective and professional AV setup.
(and yes, the stance is crucial - haha)
Conclusion
By mastering the techniques of double stacking Panasonic 20K RZ21K projectors, you can create stunning, high-brightness projections for any large event. Remember to follow safety guidelines and ensure precise alignment for the best results.
Have you tried double stacking projectors? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below, or reach out with any questions!
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