Optoma’s HD81 DLP projector is a true 1080p (1920 x 1080) high definition projector intended to the home cinema market but, has a specification which will allow it to do more.

The Optima HD81 DLP projector is based on a single Texas Instruments BrilliantColor .95 1080p DarkChip3 DMD microdisplay chip. This chip has the highest fill ratio (smallest gap between micro-mirrors on DMD chip) of its family yet. The DarkChip3 is the latest DLP technology offering higher brightness and contrast then previous versions. The DarkChip3 DMD chip has the full two million (and some) micro-mirrors for the 2 megapixels required for 1080p high definition display. Being a native 1080p projector, the Optoma HD81 does not use Wobulation – Smooth Picture if you use Texas Instruments terminology. Read Presentation Technologies review HP-MD6580 and MD5880 1080p Rear Projection HDTV which covers Wobulation in detail.

The DarkChip3 DMD is now controlled by dual drivers, Texas Instruments newly developed DDP3021. Used in parallel, the drivers provide precise control over the more numerous mirrors and enable 12-bit gamma processing (the video signal is deliberately distorted so that, after it has been distorted again by the display device, the viewer will see the correct brightness), resulting in the expression of image gradations that are four times richer. This allows the HD81 to display 68-plus billion colors on screen.

The HD81 is two piece system with the video processor and it’s cable connections in a separate, external scalar box connected to the projector with a 100 foot cable. The Optoma HD81’s video processing system is a three-stage one of decoding, image enhancement and color reproduction enhancement) offering personalized setting adjustments throughout. Video conversion is powered by a Gennum VXP technology video processor and a dedicated video enhancement chip which allows users to enhance image quality even more. Non 1080p sources are converted to 1080p by the Gennum chip.

The Gennum GF9351 video processor with Visual Excellence Processing™ (VXP™) technology is capable of some 500 million floating point operations per second To quote from Gennum’s press release, “Using technologies such as TruMotionHD™ intelligent motion-adaptive de-interlacing and film cadence processing, and RealityExpansion™ 10-bit color processing, the GF9351 produces natural images uncompromised by jagged edges, noise and flickering frequently found in other video solutions.” The GF9351 will process high definition, 1920×1080 signals at full resolution transferring them at full resolution to the DMD.

Optoma have attempted to reduce the possibility of any rainbow effects from the single DLP chip design by incorporating a seven-segment color wheel. One can always expect higher contrast ratios from full on/full off testing but, the 6000:1 contrast ratio 6,500:1 is still impressive and should provide excellent definition even in the darkest scenes. The 1,400 ANSI lumens brightness is well rated for a projector intended for home theatre and could tolerate some ambient light. Optoma have used a patent pending “tunnel cooling system” designed for whisper quiet operation and minimal light leakage – both excellent characteristics for home theatre.

The scalar box comes with 3x HDMI, 2x BNC, 2x YPbPr, 3x Composite/S-video and one VGA. The box will send HDMI out to HD81 projector body, and a RS232 to command projector.

Some detailed facts:

• Video Compatibility: NTSC, PAL, SECAM, HDTV (720p, 1080i), EDTV (480p), SDTV (480i), 576i/p
• Aspect Ratio: 16:9 native, 4:3 compatible
• I/O Connectors: 3x HDMI™ + 1x External HDMI expansion, 2x RBGHV/component (BNC), 2x RCAcomponent, 3x S-Video, 3x Composite, 1x VGA (RGB/YPbPr/SCART), 2x RS232, 2x 12V Trigger, 1x IR port extension
• Lens shift is not included so you will have to adjust alignment manually.

Resources

Projection Screen Selection Guide

Tips for Extending Projector Lamp Life

Guide to Replacement Projector Lamps and Bulbs

User Reviews and Price Comparisons

Optoma HD81 1080p Home Theater Projector

OPTOMA TECHNOLOGY BL-FS300B LAMP FOR OPTOMA EP910 HD80 HD81 HD803 300W UHP 3000HRS

Projector-Gear Projector Ceiling Mount fits OPTOMA HD81 Projector

Further Reading:

You may wish to read about a calibration tool to help your new purchase look its best – Datacolor Spydertv Pro Television Calibration System Review.