Panamorph image enhancement uses a two step process to convert 33% more pixels into usable resolution for wide screen content. First, your electronic components are configured to project an image that is expanded by 33% in the vertical direction, using the additional pixels to produce a total height 133% times the ideal height. When this "anamorphic" image goes through the Panamorph (the second step), the vertical dimension is optically squeezed to make the image look normal while keeping the 33% increase in resolution. And even with standard optical limitations, these extra pixels will create an image about 20% brighter than without the Panamorph process. In addition, since the halo of light above and below the image is caused by unused pixels, a reduction of these pixels using the Panamorph process corresponds to a reduction in the size and noticeability of the halo. And since much more light is being projected to the screen instead of being absorbed by unused pixels, the heat inside the projector is reduced, extending the life of electronic components.
Creating an anamorphic projected image for use with the Panamorph is not difficult. High performance anamorphic DVDs which are vertically stretched 33% are already common. HDTV decoders can output anamorphic content. PC applications can easily be made anamorphic with software. And even cameras can be fitted with a Panamorph lens to create anamorphic content. Many projectors can be configured to allow this anamorphic content to pass through without modification, naturally using the 33% additional pixels to be reformatted by the Panamorph. Non-anamorphic wide screen content that is in a "letterbox" format will need to be vertically stretched for Panamorph enhancement and some new DVD players and projectors already include this capability. So for most applications and content, using the Panamorph is just a matter of configuring modes on existing equipment. For advanced users, there are even a number of electronic "scalers" that, along with other high performance features, include easy "Panamorph ready" aspect ratio controls for all content if needed. But even if certain situations become a little too complicated, the Panamorph PSO-U100 includes a rail system to easily move the lens out of the beam. What's the easiest way to get started? If you have a projector, try one of your anamorphic DVDs, set your DVD player to 16:9 and set your projector options up to show a vertically expanded image. Now all you need is the lens!
