Projecting

Projecting the Picture on the Screen... 27 Turning Off the Power.. 28 Selecting the Wide Screen Mode. 28 Selecting the Picture Viewing Mode.. 31 Adjusting the Picture Quality.. 32 Adjusting the Picture Using Real Color Processing (VPL-AW15 only).. 33 Using Other Functions. 35

Location of Controls

Front/Side..8 Rear/Bottom..9 Remote Control..10
Connections and Preparations
Unpacking..11 Step 1: Installing the Projector.12 Before Setting Up the Projector.12 Positioning the Projector and a screen..14 Step 2: Connecting the Projector..17 Connecting to a VCR..17 Connecting to a Computer..20 Step 3: Adjusting the Picture Position..21 Step 4: Selecting the Menu Language..25

Using the Menus

Operation through the Menus.. 36 Picture Menu.. 40 Advanced Picture Menu (VPL-AW15 only).. 43 Screen Menu. 44 Setup Menu.. 46 Function Menu.. 48 Installation Menu.. 49 Information Menu.. 50 About the Preset Memory No. 50

Others

Troubleshooting. 51 Warning Indicators. 53 Message Lists.. 54 Replacing the Lamp and the Air Filter and cleaning the Ventilation holes (intake).. 55 Replacing the Air Filter. 58 Fitting the lens cap.. 58 Specifications.. 59 Preset Signals.. 61 Input Signals and Adjustable/ Setting Items. 64 Ceiling Installation.. 66 When Using the PSS-H10 Projector Suspension Support. 66 When Using the PSS-610 Projector Suspension Support. 70 Index.. 73

Precautions

On safety
Check that the operating voltage of your unit is identical with the voltage of your local power supply. Should any liquid or solid object fall into the cabinet, unplug the unit and have it checked by qualified personnel before operating it further. Unplug the unit from the wall outlet if it is not to be used for several days. To disconnect the cord, pull it out by the plug. Never pull the cord itself. The wall outlet should be near the unit and easily accessible. The unit is not disconnected to the AC power source (mains) as long as it is connected to the wall outlet, even if the unit itself has been turned off. Do not look into the lens while the lamp is on. Do not place your hand or objects near the ventilation holes. The air coming out is hot.
Checking the model name of the projector
Check the model name of the projector first. The model name is located at the bottom of the projector (Example: VPL-AW15). You cannot use some of the functions or menu options for certain projector models.

Avoid using the projector tilted at an angle of more than 15 degrees. Do not install the projector anywhere other than on a level surface or on the ceiling. Failing to set this mode when using the projector at high altitudes may result in uneven color uniformity and reducing the reliability of the effects of the lamp. When installing the unit at altitudes
When using the projector at an altitude of 1,500 m or higher, set Cooling Setting in the Setup menu to High (1 page 46). Failing to set this mode when using the projector at high altitudes could have adverse effects, such as reducing the reliability of certain components.
Tip For details on the location of the ventilation holes (intake or exhaust), see Location of Controls on pages 8 to 9. Tilting front/rear and left/right
Positioning the Projector and a screen
The installation distance between the projector and a screen varies depending on the size of the screen.
Determine the installation position of the projector and screen. You can obtain a good quality picture if you position the projector with the center of the lens within the areas indicated in the gray areas in the illustration (VPL-AW15 only). Use the values a, b, c and d in the table on page 15 as a guide.

Screen

a: Minimum projection distance between the screen and the center of the projectors lens b: Maximum projection distance between the screen and the center of the projectors lens (VPL-AW15 only) *c: Vertical distance between the center of the screen and the center of the projectors lens when using the maximum upper vertical lens shift feature *d: Horizontal distance between the center of the screen and the center of the projectors lens when using the maximum horizontal lens shift feature
* The distances c and d indicated in the illustration show those in the lower or left direction. The same distances in the upper or right direction are appropriate for installation.
For installation of the projector on a ceiling, see Ceiling Installation. (1 page 66) For details on the lens shift feature, see Step 3: Adjusting the Picture Position. (1 page 21)
When using the 16:9 aspect ratio screen

Unit: mm (inches)

Screen 40 size (inches) (mm) 1016 a 1151 (minimum) (45 3/8) b 1885 (maximum) (74 1/4) *c *d 324 (12 3/4) 221 (8 3/4) 200
(69) 2849 (112 1/4) 485 (19 1/8) 331 (13 1/8)
(80 11/16) 3332 (131 1/4) 566 (22 3/8) 387 (15 1/4)
(92 1/2) 3814 (150 1/4) 647 (25 1/2) 442 (17 1/2)

Side view

1 screen height
: Picture position when moving the picture upward at maximum : Picture position when moving the picture downward at maximum
When you use both the horizontal and vertical lens shift features at the same time, you can move the picture vertically by a maximum of 25% of the screen size.
Adjust the picture size using the zoom lever.

Zoom lever

Adjust the focus using the focus ring.

Focus ring

To adjust the tilt of the installation surface
If the projector is installed on an uneven surface, use the adjusters to keep the projector level.
Turn to adjust. Adjusters
Be careful not to catch your finger when turning the adjusters.
Step 4: Selecting the Menu Language
You can select one of 16 languages for displaying the menu and other on-screen displays. The factory default setting is English. To change the current menu language, set the desired language with the menu screen.

2, 3, 1

Press MENU. The menu appears.
Press M/m to select the Setup menu, and press , or. The setting items of the selected menu appears.
Press M/m to select Language, and press , or.
Press M/m/</, to select a language, and press. The menu changes to the selected language.

To clear the menu

Press MENU.
This section describes how to operate the projector to view the picture from the equipment connected to the projector. It also describes how to adjust the quality of the picture to suit your taste.
Projecting the Picture on the Screen
Power on both the equipment and the device connected to the equipment. Press INPUT repeatedly to select the input you want to project on the screen. Display the indication of the input you want.
Example: To view the picture from the video equipment connected to the VIDEO INPUT connector.
To view the picture from Video equipment connected to the VIDEO INPUT connector Video equipment connected to S VIDEO INPUT connector RGB/component equipment connected to the INPUT A connector Component equipment connected to Y/PB/CB/PR/CR connectors Equipment connected to the HDMI connector Press INPUT to display Video S-Video Input-A* Component HDMI**
* Set the Input-A Signal Sel. setting in the Setup menu according to the signal input. When you set it to Auto, and cannot display the picture properly, select an appropriate signal according to the input signal. (1 page 47, 50, 61) ** The color gradation of the dark area or the bright area may become unclear when a signal other than those from HDMI standard cable is input. Adjust the Brightness and the Contrast in the Picture menu. (1 page 41) Tip When Auto Input Search is set to On in the Function signals is automatically displayed by pressing INPUT.

menu, the input terminal with effective

Turning Off the Power

Press the ?/1 (On/standby) switch. A message POWER OFF? appears on the screen. Press the ?/1 (On/standby) switch again before the message disappears. The ?/1 (On/standby) indicator flashes in green and the fan continues to run to reduce the internal heat. First, the ?/1 (On/standby) indicator flashes quickly, during which you will not be able to light up the ?/1 (On/standby) indicator with the ?/1 (On/standby) switch. Confirm that the fan stops running and the ?/1 (On/standby) indicator lights in red.
You can turn off the projector by holding the ?/1 (On/standby) switch for about 1 second, instead of performing the above steps.
Selecting the Wide Screen Mode
You can enjoy various wide screen modes according to the video signal received.

Press WIDE MODE.

Each time you press the button, you can change the Wide Mode setting in turn. You can also select it using the menu. (1 page 44)

WIDE MODE button

* RCP button: VPL-AW15 only

Original image

When the Wide Mode is operated

Wide Zoom

A 4:3 aspect ratio picture is enlarged over the entire screen properly. The upper and lower portions of the screen are slightly cut off.

Normal

A picture with normal 4:3 aspect ratio is displayed in the center of the screen to fill the vertical screen size.

Squeezed

A picture squeezed to 4:3 is displayed with the correct aspect ratio. A 4:3 picture is enlarged horizontally to fit the 16:9 screen.
Tip Squeezed: An original 16:9 aspect ratio picture is recorded horizontally compressed to a 4:3 picture.
Letterbox picture with side panels
A normal 16:9 aspect ratio picture is enlarged vertically and horizontally in the same ratio to fill the screen. Use this mode to view a letterbox picture or a letterbox picture with side panels. If the subtitle of a movie, etc. is hidden and cannot be seen, adjust the screen with Vertical Size and V Center to display the subtitle. (1 page 45)

Letterbox picture

Full 1 (When the PC signal is input)
Displays a picture on the whole of the screen without changing the aspect ratio of the original picture.
Full 2 (When the PC signal is input)
Displays a picture on the whole of the screen.
You can adjust the vertical position of the picture with V Center and Vertical Size in the Screen menu only when Zoom is selected. (1 page 45)
Notes on selecting the wide screen mode
The projector is featured with the WIDE MODE. When changing the settings of WIDE MODE, it must be noted as below. Changing the aspect ratio of the original picture will provide a different look from that of the original image. Note that if the projector is used for profit or for public viewing, modifying the original picture by switching to the wide mode may constitute an infringement of the rights of authors or producers, which are legally protected.

2, 3, 4, 5 1

1 Press M/m to select Color Select, then press </, to select the color you want to adjust among Red, Yellow, Green, Cyan, Blue and Magenta.

Reference palette

Only the portions that correspond to the specified color will be colored and the other portions will be displayed in black and white. The reference palette in the RCP window also shows the adjustable colors. Select the desired setting to adjust the color on the projected image using the reference palette as a guide.
2 Press M/m to select Position or Range, and specify it more delicate color position and color range you want to adjust using </,.
Adjust the color of the specified portions. Press M/m to select RCP Color or RCP Hue, then adjust the color or hue of the portions selected in step 3 to suit your taste using </, while watching the projected picture. The picture is returned to normal color during adjustment. After the adjustment is complete, press. The RCP window disappears and the picture of step 2 is appeared. Then after a few seconds, normal picture is restored. The adjustments you have made will be reflected on the picture projected on the screen.
Tip There are some limitations on selection of position and range.

Using Other Functions

You can temporarily turn off or pause a projected picture. Press PIC MUTING. Press to temporarily turn off a projected picture. To return to the previous screen, press PIC MUTING again. Press FREEZE. A projected picture can be paused to be displayed. FREEZE is shown on the screen when a button is pressed. To return to the previous screen, press FREEZE again.
PIC MUTING button FREEZE button
Available for only computer signal.
This section describes how to make various adjustments and settings using the menus.
Operation through the Menus
The projector is equipped with an on-screen menu for making various adjustments and settings. Some of the adjustable/setting items are displayed in a pop-up menu, in a setting menu or adjustment menu with no main menu, or in the next menu window. If you select an item name followed by an arrow (B), the next menu window with setting items appears. To change the on-screen menu language, see Step 4: Selecting the Menu Language. (1 page 25)

NR (Noise Reduction)

DDE (Dynamic Detail Enhancer)
Black Level Adj. (Adjust)

Gamma Correction

Advanced Picture Menu (VPL-AW15 only)
The Advanced Picture is used for adjusting the picture more.
RCP (Real Color Processing) (VPL-AW15 only)
You can adjust the color and hue of each selected portion of the picture independently. User 1, User 2, User 3: You can adjust the picture using Real Color Processing and store the settings. Once the settings are stored, you can view the picture with the adjusted picture quality. Off: Cancels this feature. For details, see Adjusting the Picture Using Real Color Processing. (1 page 33)

Screen Menu

The Screen menu is used to adjust the input signal. You can adjust the size of the picture, and select wide screen mode, etc.

Adjust Screen menu

Wide Mode (When the You can set the aspect ratio of the picture to be displayed for the input signal is moving current input signal. This item is enabled only when a moving picture) picture (preset memory numbers 1 to 14) (1 page 61) is provided. Wide Zoom: A 4:3 aspect ratio picture is enlarged over the entire screen properly. The upper and lower portions of the screen are slightly cut off. Normal: A picture with normal 4:3 aspect ratio is displayed in the center of the screen to fill the vertical screen size. Full: A picture squeezed to 4:3 is displayed with the correct aspect ratio. A 4:3 picture is enlarged horizontally to fit the 16:9 screen. Zoom: A normal 16:9 aspect ratio picture is enlarged vertically and horizontally in the same ratio to fill the screen. Wide Mode (When the You can set the aspect ratio of the picture to be displayed for the PC signal is input) current input signal. This item is enabled only when an PC signal is input. Full 1: Displays a picture on the whole of the screen without changing the aspect ratio of the original picture. Full 2: Displays a picture on the whole of the screen. Zoom: A normal 16:9 aspect ratio picture is enlarged vertically and horizontally in the same ratio to fill the screen. Over Scan Hides the outline of the picture. On: Hides the outline of the input picture. Select this setting when noise appears along the edge of the picture. Off: Projects the whole of the input picture. Tip To adjust the display area, refer to Blanking on the installation menu (1 page 49). (VPL-AW15 only)

Screen Area

Selects the size of the picture when a Hi-Vision picture is overscanned. Full: Expands the picture on the whole of the screen. Through: Does not expands the picture on the whole of the screen.
This item is effective only when a Hi-Vision signal (preset memory No. 10 and 11) is input and On is selected in Over Scan. V Center Adjust the whole picture by moving up and down on the screen. The entire screen moves up as the selected number increases and moves down as the selected number decreases.
This item is adjustable only when Zoom is selected. Vertical Size Reduces or enlarges the picture vertically. The screen is enlarged as the setting increases and reduced as the setting decreases. If the subtitle of a movie, etc. cannot be seen, use this together with V Center.
This item is adjustable only when Zoom is selected. Adjust Signal You can adjust the input signal. APA: Adjusts the position of the image signal automatically for Phase, Pitch, and Shift. Phase: Adjusts the dot phase of the panel and the computer signal. Adjust the picture to the point where it looks clearest. Pitch: Adjusts the horizontal size of the picture from a computer. The higher the setting, the wider the picture. The lower the setting, the narrower the picture. Adjust the setting to match the number of dots of the input signal. Shift: Adjusts the position of the picture. H: As the setting for H (horizontal) increases, the picture moves to the right, and as the setting decreases, the picture moves to the left. Use < / , to adjust the horizontal position. V: As the setting for V (vertical) increases, the picture moves up, and as the setting decreases, the picture moves down. Use M / m to adjust the vertical position.

Setup Menu

The Setup menu is used to change the factory preset settings, etc.

Status

Sets whether or not the on-screen display is displayed. Set to Off to turn off the on-screen displays except for the menus, message when turning off the power, and warning messages. Selects the language used in the menu and on-screen displays. Available languages are: English, Dutch, French, Italian, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Swedish, Norwegian, Japanese, Chinese (Simplified Chinese), Chinese (Traditional Chinese), Korean, Thai and Arabic. Use this item when using the projector at high altitudes. High: Use this setting when using the projector at an altitude of 1,500 m or higher. Standard: Use this setting when using the projector at normal altitudes.

Language

Cooling Setting
When this item is set to High, the fan noise becomes slightly louder since the number of fan rotation increases. Standby Mode Lowers the power consumption in standby. When set to Standard the power consumption in standby becomes normal. When set to Low, the power consumption in standby mode is lowered. Sets the power saving mode. When set to On, the projector goes into power saving mode if no signal is input for 10 minutes. At that time, after the ?/1 (On/ standby) indicator flashes, it will light in orange and the screen becomes dark. In power saving mode, the power saving mode is cancelled if a signal is input or any button is pressed. If you do not want to set the projector to power saving mode, select Off.

When the aspect ratio of input signal does not match the screen size, a part of the screen is displayed in black.
This section describes how to solve the problems, how to replace the lamp and air filter, etc.

Troubleshooting

If the projector appears to be operating erratically, try to diagnose and correct the problem using the following instructions. If the problem persists, consult with qualified Sony personnel.
Symptom The power is not turned on. Cause and Remedy c After about 1 minute, turn the power on. c Close the lamp cover securely, then tighten the screws securely. (1 page 56) c Close the air filter cover securely. (1 page 57) c Check warning indicators. (1 page 53)

Picture

Symptom No picture. Cause and Remedy c Check that the proper connections have been made. (1 page 17) c Select the input source correctly using the INPUT. (1 page 27) c Set the computer signal to output from an external monitor. c Set the computer signal to output only to an external monitor. c Select Computer, Component or Video GBR for Input-A Signal Sel. on the Setup menu according to the input signal. (1 page 47) c Select Computer, Component or Video GBR for Input-A Signal Sel. on the Setup menu according to the input signal. (1 page 47) c Adjust the picture of the Picture c Set Color System in the Setup system being input. (1 page 47) menu. (1 page 40) menu to match the color
The picture from the INPUT A connector is colored strange. The picture from the VIDEO INPUT or S VIDEO INPUT connector is colored strange. The color gradation of the dark area or the bright area becomes unclear when an HDMI signal is input.
c The color gradation of the dark area or the bright area may become unclear when a signal other than those from HDMI standard cable is input. Adjust the Brightness and the Contrast in the Picture menu. (1 page 41)
Symptom The picture is too dark. The picture is not clear.
Cause and Remedy c Adjust the contrast or brightness of the Picture properly. (1 page 41) menu
c Adjust the focus using the focus ring. (1 page 24) c Condensation has accumulated on the lens. Leave the projector for about 2 hours with the power on. c Activate APA, then adjust the current input signal. c Adjust Phase for Adjust Signal in the Screen menu properly. (1 page 45)

The picture flickers.

On-screen display
Symptom On-screen display does not appear. The model name does not disappear from the screen. Cause and Remedy c Set Status in the Setup menu to On. (1 page 46) c Check if the ?/1 (On/standby) indicator should light in green. c The display mode of the projector may be set at the time of purchase. Consult with your local dealer or qualified Sony personnel.

Remote control

Symptom The remote control does not work. Cause and Remedy c Batteries could be weak. Replace them with new batteries. (1 page 11) c Insert the batteries with the correct polarities. (1 page 11) c If there is a fluorescent lamp near the remote control detector, the projector may work improperly or inadvertently.
Symptom The fan is noisy. Cause and Remedy c Check the setting of Cooling Setting in the Setup menu. (1 page 46) c Make sure that the room temperature is not too high. The number of fan rotation increases to maintain the product reliability of the projectors components in a room, where the temperature is higher than normal. The fan noise becomes slightly louder. The approximate normal temperature is 25C.

Warning Indicators

The ?/1 (On/standby) or LAMP/COVER indicator lights up or flashes if there is any trouble with your projector.

LAMP/COVER indicator

Symptom LAMP/COVER flashes in red. (A repetition rate of 2 flashes) LAMP/COVER flashes in red. (A repetition rate of 3 flashes)
Cause and Remedy c Close the lamp cover securely, then tighten the screws securely. (1 page 56) c Close the air filter cover securely. (1 page 57) c The lamp has reached the end of its useful lifespan. Replace the lamp. (1 page 55) c The lamp has reached a high temperature. Wait until the lamp cools, and then turn on the power again. c The fan is broken. Consult with qualified Sony personnel.

?/1 (On/standby) flashes

in red. (A repetition rate of 4 flashes)
in red. (A repetition rate of 2 flashes)
c The internal temperature is unusually high. Check to ensure that if nothing is blocking the ventilation holes or whether or not the projector is being used at high altitudes. c Disconnect the AC power cord, then confirm the ?/1 (On/standby) lamp is turned off. Turn on the power again after re-connecting it. If the indicators still light up, the electrical system has a problem. Consult with qualified Sony personnel.
in red. (A repetition rate of 6 flashes)
When a warning indicator other than the above status, consult with Sony Customer Information Service Center.
Message Lists Warning messages
Message High temp.! Lamp off in 1 min. Frequency is out of range! Please check Input-A Signal Sel. Please replace the Lamp/ Filter. Cause and Remedy c Turn off the power. c Check to ensure that nothing is blocking the ventilation holes. (1 page 13) c Frequency is out of range. Input a signal that is within the acceptable frequency range of the projector. c Set Input-A Signal Sel. in the Setup menu to Computer when an RGB signal is input from a computer. (1 page 47) c It is time to replace the lamp. Replace the lamp. (1 page 55) c Also, replace the air filter too. Restart cleaning the Ventilation holes (intake). (1 page 55) If this message appears again after you replace the lamp and filter, the lamp replacement process is not complete. Check the lamp replacement process. (1 page 55)

576/50p

31.250

50.000

SonG/Y

1080/60i

33.750

60.000

1080/50i

28.130

Memory No. 47
Preset signal (Resolution) 1080/24PsF 1080/48i (1920 1080i) 720/60p 720/50p 1080/60p 1080/50p 1080/24p 720/60p (1280 720p) 720/50p (1280 720p) 1080/60p (1920 1080p) 1080/50p (1920 1080p) 1080/24p (1920 1080p)
fH (kHz) 27.000 45.000 37.500 67.500 56.260 26.973
fV (Hz) 48.000 60.000 50.000 60.000 50.000 23.976 70.086 85.080 56.416 70.086 85.080 59.940 66.667 72.809 75.000 85.008 56.250 60.317 72.188 75.000 85.061 74.550 60.004 70.069 75.029 60.000 60.013 SonG/Y SonG/Y SonG/Y

H Size 1696

VGA-1 (VGA350) 31.469 VESA 85 (VGA350) 37.861 24.823 31.469 37.861 31.469 35.000 37.861 37.500 43.269 35.156 37.879 48.077 46.875 53.674 49.724 48.363 56.476 60.023 60.000 63.974
H-pos, V-neg H-pos, V-neg H-neg, V-neg H-neg, V-pos H-neg, V-pos H-neg, V-neg H-neg, V-neg H-neg, V-neg H-neg, V-neg H-neg, V-neg H-pos, V-pos H-pos, V-pos H-pos, V-pos H-pos, V-pos H-pos, V-pos H-neg, V-neg H-neg, V-neg H-neg, V-neg H-pos, V-pos H-pos, V-pos H-pos, V-pos

640 400

NEC PC98 VGA-2 (TEXT)/ VESA70 VESA 85 (VGA400)

640 480

VESA 60 Mac 13 VESA 72 VESA 75 (IBM M3) VESA 85 (IBM M4)

800 600

VESA 56 VESA 60 VESA 72 VESA 75 (IBM M5) VESA 85

1024 768

Mac 16 VESA 60 VESA 70 VESA 75

1280 960

VESA 60

Memory No. 56

Preset signal (Resolution) SXGA + 1280 768/720/60
fH (kHz) 65.317 47.776 44.772
fV (Hz) 59.978 59.870 59.855
Sync H-neg, V-pos H-neg, V-pos H-neg, V-pos

H Size 1664

Preset memory numbers for each input signal Analog signal
Signal Video signal (VIDEO INPUT and S VIDEO INPUT connectors) Component signal (INPUT A and Y PB/CB PR/ CR connectors) Video GBR signal (INPUT A connector) Computer signal (INPUT A connector) Preset memory number 1, to to to 39, 55 to 56 Others

Digital signal

Signal Component signal (HDMI connector) Video GBR signal (HDMI connector) Computer signal (HDMI connector) Preset memory number 3 to 8, 10 to to 8, 10 to 14 26, 32, 36, 37, 45, 47, 50, 55
Input Signals and Adjustable/Setting Items
Some of the items in the menus cannot be adjusted depending on the input signal. The following tables indicate them. The items that cannot be adjusted are not displayed in the menu.

Center of the screen (VPL-AW15 only) Center of the lens
Screen Size 40 (inches) (mm) 1016 a Minimum Distance 1266 (49 7/8) 1864 (73 1/2) 2163 (85 1/4) 2462 (97) 200 5080
(120 5/8) (144 1/8) (167 5/8) (191 1/4) (214 3/4) (238 3/8)
Maximum 1999 Distance (78 3/4) x Minimum Distance 249 (9 7/8)
9717 (116 3/4) (135 3/4) (154 3/4) (192 3/4) (230 3/4) (268 3/4) (306 3/4) (344 3/4) (382 5/8) 373 (14 3/4) 724 (28 1/2) 436 (17 1/4) 805 (31 3/4) 498 (19 5/8) 886 (34 7/8) 622 (24 1/2) 1047 (41 1/4) 747 (29 1/2) 1209 (47 5/8) 871 (34 3/8) 1371 (54) 996 (39 1/4) 1533 (60 3/8) 1120 (44 1/8) 1695 (66 3/4) 1245 (49) 1856 (73 1/8)
Maximum 562 Distance (22 1/4)
To calculate the installation measurements (SS: Screen Size) a (minimum) = 29.909 (1 3/16) SS + 69.614 (2 3/4) a (maximum) = 48.239 (1 15/16) SS + 69.631 (2 3/4) x (minimum) = 6.223 (1/4) SS x (maximum) = 8.0899 (11/32) SS + 238.5 (9 1/2)
When using the 4:3 aspect ratio screen
Screen Size 40 (inches) (mm) 1016 a Minimum Distance 1534 (60 1/2) 2266 (89 1/4) 200 5080
3731 (103 3/4) (118 1/8) (147)
7391 (175 3/4) (204 5/8) (233 3/8) (262 1/4) (291 1/8)
Maximum 2431 Distance (95 3/4) x Minimum Distance 305 (12)
11879 (142 1/4) (165 1/2) (188 3/4) (235 1/4) (281 3/4) (328 1/4) (374 3/4) (421 1/4) (467 3/4) 457 (18) 833 (32 7/8) 533 (21) 932 (36 3/4) 609 (24) 1031 (40 5/8) 762 (30) 1229 (48 3/8) 914 (36) 1427 (56 1/4) 1066 (42) 1625 (64) 1219 (48) 1823 (71 7/8) 1371 (54) 1523 (60)
Maximum 635 Distance (25)

(79 19/32) (87 3/8)

To calculate the installation measurements (SS: Screen Size) a (minimum) = 36.609 (1 1/2) SS + 69.614 (2 3/4) a (maximum) = 59.045 (2 3/8) SS + 69.631 (2 3/4) x (minimum) = 7.617 (5/16) SS x (maximum) = 9.902 (13/32) SS + 238.5 (9 1/2)
Attaching the PSS-H10 projector suspension support
For details on installation on a ceiling, refer to the Installation manual for Dealers of the PSS-H10. Make sure to consult with a qualified Sony personnel for installation. The installation measurements are shown below when installing the projector on a ceiling using the PSS-H10. Top view Install the projector so that the center of the lens is parallel to the center of the screen.

Front of the cabinet

Center of the lens
Distance between the screen and the center of the lens
Upper ceiling mount bracket Center of the supporting pole (The center of the supporting pole is different from that of the unit.)

Front view

Ceiling Center of the supporting pole
The bottom surface of the mount bracket
*d 63.5 (2 1/2) (VPL-AW15) 68 (2 3/4) (VPL-AW10)

When Using the PSS-610 Projector Suspension Support
a: Distance between the screen and the installation hole of the upper ceiling mount bracket (front side) b: Distance from the ceiling to the bottom surface of the unit x: Distance between the ceiling and the center of the screen such that the picture will not be truncated or blocked PSS-610 Projector Suspension Support (not supplied) Ceiling
Screen Size 40 (inches) (mm) 1016 a Minimum Distance 1251 (49 3/8) 1850 (72 7/8) 2149 (84 5/8) 2448 (96 1/2) 200 5080
(119 15/16) (143 1/2) (167 1/8) (190 5/8) (214 1/4) (237 3/4)
Maximum 1987 Distance (78 1/4) x Minimum Distance 249 (9 7/8)
9705 (116 1/4) (135 1/4) (154 1/4) (192 1/4) (230 1/4) (268 1/4) (306 1/4) (344 1/4) (382 1/4) 373 (14 3/4) 436 (17 1/4) 498 (19 5/8) 622 (24 1/2) 747 (29 1/2) 871 (34 3/8) 996 (39 1/4) 1120 (44 1/8) 1245 (49)
Maximum 387+b 549+b 630+b 711+b Distance (15 1/4 +b) (21 5/8 +b) (24 7/8 +b) (28+b) b
872+b 1034+b 1196+b 1358+b 1520+b 1681+b (34 3/8 +b) (40 3/4 +b) (47 1/8 +b) (53 1/2 +b) (59 7/8 +b) (66 1/4 +b)
150, 175, 200, 250, 275, 300 mm (6, 7, 7 7/8, 9 7/8, 10 7/8, 11 7/8 inches) adjustable when using PSS-610
To calculate the installation measurements (SS: Screen Size) a (minimum) = 29.909 (1 3/16) SS + 57.114 (2 1/4) a (maximum) = 48.239 (1 15/16) SS + 57.131 (2 1/4) x (minimum) = 6.223 (1/4) SS x (maximum) = 8.0899 (11/32) SS + 63.5 (2 1/2) + b
Screen Size 40 (inches) (mm) 1016 a Minimum Distance 1521 (60) 2254 (88 3/4) 200 5080
(103 1/4) (117 5/8) (146 1/2) (175 1/4) (204 1/8) (233)

(261 3/4) (290 5/8)

Maximum 2419 Distance (95 1/4) x Minimum Distance 305 (12)
(141 3/4) (165) 457 (18) 533 (21)
11866 (188 1/4) (234 3/4) (281 1/4) (327 3/4) (374 1/4) (420 3/4) (467 1/4) 609 (24) 762 (30) 914 (36) 1066 (42) 1219 (48) 1371 (54) 1523 (60)
Maximum 460+b 658+b Distance (18 1/8 +b) (26+b) b
757+b 856+b 1054+b 1252+b 1450+b 11648+b 1846+b 2044+b (29 7/8 +b) (33 3/4 +b) (41 1/2 +b) (49 3/8 +b) (57 1/8 +b) (458 3/4 +b) (72 3/4 +b) (80 1/2+ b)
To calculate the installation measurements (SS: Screen Size) a (minimum) = 36.609 (1 1/2) SS + 57.114 (2 1/4) a (maximum) = 59.045 (2 3/8) SS + 57.131 (2 1/4) x (minimum) = 7.617 (5/16) SS x (maximum) = 9.902 (13/32) SS + 63.5 (2 1/2) + b

Attaching the PSS-610 projector suspension support
For details on installation on a ceiling, refer to the Installation manual for Dealers of the PSS-610. Make sure to consult with a qualified Sony personnel for installation. The installation measurements are shown below when installing the projector on a ceiling using the PSS-610. Top view Install the projector so that the center of the lens is parallel to the center of the screen.
Distance between the ceiling and the surface of the mount bracket Using adjustment pipe (b): 150/175/200 mm (6 / 7 / 7 7/8 inches) Using adjustment pipe (c): 250/275/300 mm (9 7/8 / 10 7/8 / 11 7/8 inches)
Ceiling Center of the supporting pole The bottom surface of the mount bracket
Adjust Signal Phase..45 Pitch...45 Shift...45 Adjuster...24 Adjusting picture position.21 picture quality..32 Advanced Iris..41 Auto Input Search.48
Lamp Timer.. 50 Language.. 46 Location of Controls Front/Right side. 8 Rear/Bottom.. 9
Menu Advanced Picture.. 43 Function... 48 Information... 50 Installation.. 49 Picture.. 40 Screen.. 44 Setup... 46 Messages Caution.. 54 Warning.. 54
Background..48 Black Level Adj..42 Blanking..49 Brightness..41

NR... 42

Ceiling Installation..66 Cinema Black Pro.41 Color System..47 Color Temp..41 Connecting Computer..20 Video equipment..17 Contrast...41 Cooling Setting..46

Over Scan.. 44

Picture Mode CINEMA.. 31 Cinema.. 40 DYNAMIC... 31 Dynamic... 40 STANDARD.. 31 Standard... 40 USER.. 31 User... 40 Precautions.. 7 Preset Memory.. 50 Preset Signals.. 61

fH fV...50...50

Gamma Correction..42

HDMI..18 Hue...41

RCP.. 43 Remote control inserting the batteries. 11 location of controls.. 10 Reset resettable items. 39 resetting the items. 39
Image Flip..49 Input-A Signal Sel..47
Screen Area.. 45 Selecting the menu language. 25 Sharpness.. 41 Specifications.. 59 Standby Mode... 46 Status.. 46 Supplied accessories. 11

Troubleshooting.. 51

V Keystone... 49
WIDE MODE... 28 Wide Mode Full.. 44 Full 1... 44 Full 2... 44 Normal.. 44 Wide Zoom.. 44 Zoom... 44

CONTACT

www.sony.co.nz

SPECIFICATIONS

Resolution: 1280 x 720 Contrast Ratio: 12000:1 Lamp: 165W UHP, 1100 lm brightness Inputs: HDMI, component, PC Vertical and horizontal optical lens shift Short focal length lens (80-inch screen from 2.3m) with 1.6 times zoom
V ery good picture quality combined with unbeatable value

VIP VPL

R eally not a lot to complain about
Sony VPL-AW15 Bravia LCD Projector $2700
Blu-Ray or HD-DVD player to achieve it. So on to the viewing, and I spent over a week assessing the pros and cons of the wallet-friendly Sony. Generally speaking, the performance was certainly on par with the other native 720p LCD projectors on the market. Watching 300 on DVD via my Pioneer 989 was a real treat the surreal landscapes and bloodthirsty action were rendered very effectively through the VPL-AW15. And so it was with Blu-ray as the source. Both Fantastic Four and S.W.A.T. looked really good through the AW15, and only close examination revealed a slight lack of detail compared with native 1080p devices. So in summing up, Sony has quite a bargain on offer with the VPL-AW15. At $3000 it would be a compelling purchase; its actual price of $2699 makes it a bona fide best buy.

n GARY PEARCE

VERDICT A real best buy from Sony giving amazing value performance
Aesthetics Performance Features Functionality Price Value Overall

88% 88% 90% 90% 95%

few years ago the projector at the top of everyones list (well, those with big pockets) was a device called the VPL-VW10HT. The VW10HT was made by Sony and at the time retailed for around $13k a quite considerable sum. Nowadays, the price you would pay for a comparable projector is substantially less than the kings ransom needed to buy the VW10HT: around $3500 will get you the latest 720p device that would comfortably outperform that ageing ancestor. Some years after the landmark VW10HT, Sony has delivered a coup in the form of the brand new VPL-AW15 LCD projector at a fraction of the price of its illustrious predecessor. Its a not-very-closely guarded secret that Panasonic, with the likes of the AE/AX series, has held the whip hand in terms of projector market share over the last few years, and it seems that Sony has just had enough of its rivals dominance in this important and growing market sector. In a bold move the Japanese electronics giant has introduced two new entry-level 720p projectors, the VPL-AW15 and 10, at prices that seem almost ridiculous. Try $2000 for the AW10 and $2700 for the much-better-specced AW15 reviewed here, and large screen movie buffs have a choice of sub-$3k 720p projectors for the first time. I love it when bargains that seem too good to be true actually deliver on the hype, so I was very keen to review the new VPL-AW15 in my home theatre room. Its a 1280 x 720p projector of course, but the low price doesnt mean its a stripped down pauper far from it. The AW15 has horizontal and vertical lens shift, and advanced iris with off and manual positions, six picture modes and RCP (Real Colour Processing). This succulent Sony also supports 1080p/24fps, which enables playback of movies at the original 24 frames per second without conversion. In case you were wondering, this is a rare feature among projectors at any price. According to Sony it means more natural motion, although youll need a

TONE october 2007