Compared with devices used in other in projection systems, LCOS panels reproduce exceptionally high-resolution images, free of the “lattice effect” in which a faint grid pattern appears over the projected image. Its consistently high levels of imaging performance, have garnered LCOS technology considerable attention within the industry. Canon has developed two types of LCOS panels: a 0.71-inch WUXGA (1,920 x 1,200 pixels) panel, the world’s first* LCOS panel of its size to achieve such a level of resolution, and a 0.55-inch SXGA+ (1,400 x 1,050 pixels) panel. In 2004, in advance of industry trends toward higher PC image resolution and high-definition video content, Canon launched high-resolution multimedia office projectors incorporating LCOS panels. These products feature Canon’s proprietary AISYS (Aspectual Illumination System) technology, which maximizes the performance of LCOS panels to realize bright, high-contrast images within a compact design. As a result, in addition to general business and education applications, these projectors have earned praise from users in such specialized fields as design, simulation and medicine. With the development of its own LCOS panels, Canon has developed all of the key parts needed for these high-performance projectors, including the AISYS optical engine, the projection lenses, which complement the high-resolution panels by minimizing image distortion, and the drive IC, which drives the panels. In particular, Canon’s newly developed WUXGA (1920 x 1200 pixels) panel not only makes possible the projection of Full HD (1920 x 1080 pixels) images but, by supporting the display of ever-increasing PC image-resolution levels, is also expected to contribute to the cultivation of a new market for business-use projectors. Capitalizing on this development, Canon will utilize the two types of LCOS panels in combination with the company’s world-class optical technologies - with the aim of creating innovative new products to be brought to market in the near future. Targeting the realization of “cross-media imaging” - a concept spanning a diverse range of input and output devices - Canon, aims to actively work to invigorate the front projector market through the continued launch of products delivering high-resolution, high-image-quality performance. * As of May 15, 2008, among 0.71-inch LCOS panels.
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