BASIC OPERATIONS GUIDE

REAL D CINEMA SYSTEM

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REAL D

100 North Crescent Drive, Suite 120

Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Email: Support@reald.com
Phone: 1-888-3D-HELPP (1-888-334-3577)
www.reald.com

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
As the REAL D Cinema System installs into and onto existing equipment, please follow all directives from the
projector manufacturer in addition to the following safety guidelines.

This equipment is intended for use in a restricted access location.

Before installing or operating your Real D Cinema System, please read this manual thoroughly, and retain it for
future reference. All instructions for operating and use of this equipment should be followed precisely.

Installation and preliminary adjustments should be performed by qualified REAL D personnel or authorized
REAL D service dealers.

• Observe and follow all warnings marked on the system

• All local installation codes should be adhered to
• DO NOT look directly into the high intensity light beam. The polarizing filter DOES NOT provide eye
protection.
• DO NOT use an abrasive material to clean the ZScreen or eye wear. They can be easily scratched.
See MAINTENANCE section for correct cleaning and care procedure.

INFORMATION TO THE USER FOR CLASS A DIGITAL DEVICE

WARNING: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for Class A digital device pur-
suant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment.

This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in ac-
cordance with the instruction manual, may cause interference to radio communications. Operations of this
equipment in a residential area is likely to cause interference in which case the user will be required to correct
the interference at his own expense.

The user is cautioned that changes and modifications made to the equipment without approval of the manufac-
turer could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment. It is suggested that the user only use shielded
and grounded cables to ensure compliance with FCC Rules.

CAUTION:
DANGER OF EXPLOSION IF BATTERY IS INCORRECTLY REPLACED. REPLACE ONLY WITH THE SAME
OR EUIVALENT TYPE RECOMMENDED BY THE MANUFACTURER. DISPOSE OF USED BATTERIES
ACCORDING TO THE MANUFACTURER’S INSTRUCTIONS .

ATTENTION:
IL Y A DANGER D’EXPLOSION S’IL Y A REMPLACEMENT INCORRECT DE LA BATTERIE, REMPLACER
UNIQUEMENT AVEC UNE BATTERIE DU MẾME TYPE OU D’UN TYPE ẾQUIVALENT RECOMMANDẾ
PAR LE CONTRUCTEUR. METTRE AU REBUT LES BATTERIES USAGẾES CONFORMẾMENT AUX INS-
TRUCTIONS DU FABRICANT.

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Table of Contents

1. OVERVIEW..……………………………………. ..........................................................................4
1.1 About this Manual.......................................................................................................5
1.2 How REAL D Projection Works .................................................................................6
1.3 REAL D 3D System Requirements………………......................................................6

2. REAL D CINEMA SYSTEM....................................................................................................... 7

2.1. REAL D Cinema Polarized Glasses ..........................................................................8
2.2. REAL D Cinema Zscreen ..........................................................................................9
2.3. REAL D Cinema Control Module.............................................................................10
2.4. REAL D Projectionist Test Pattern ..........................................................................12
2.5. Connection Cables ...................................................................................................14
2.6. Mounting Hardware .................................................................................................15
2.7. Installation Features ................................................................................................15

3. REAL D SETUP……………………………………………………………………. ........................16

3.1. Pre-Show Diagnostic Check…….............................................................................17
3.2. Upgrade Projector Lamp…………. ..........................................................................18
3.3. Verify Lens Configuration………………...................................................................19
3.4. Position and Level Zscreen………………................................................................19
3.5. Clean Zscreen ………………………........................................................................20
a. Dust………………………………........................................................................21
b. Fingerprints and Smudges………………….......................................................21
c. Resistant Residue……………… .......................................................................21
3.6. Power Up System and Projector…..........................................................................22
3.7. Verify That Fan is Running……….. .........................................................................23
3.8. Verify Control Module Communication………… .....................................................24

4. Play REAL D PRESENTATION…………………......................................................................25

4.1 Select REAL D Presentation Settings on Projector.................................................25
4.2 Ignite Lamp…………………………..........................................................................25
4.3 Start 3D Media File on Digital Media Server ...........................................................25

5. CONVERSION TO 2D………………………………….. ............................................................26

5.1. Setup for 2D…………………………….....................................................................26

6. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS……………………….....................................................27

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1. OVERVIEW

REAL D is making digital 3D experiences part of your everyday life. Whether in movie theaters, in public places, in
business or at home, REAL D sees a world where entertainment, advertising and technical content are increas-
ingly 3D-enabled. As the world’s leading digital 3D experience provider, REAL D is dedicated to deliver 3D to de-
veloping, commercializing and mainstreaming the technologies, standards and business systems required to de-
liver digital 3D to the highest standard in cinemas, public spaces and business environments. One look at our digi-
tal 3D solutions and we think you will agree: Anything else just seems flat by comparison.

REAL D Cinema provides turnkey next-generation digital 3D solutions to the entertainment industry. Bringing to-
gether a host of powerful, proven technologies that leverage the current industry-wide shift to a digital projection
standard. REAL D Cinema enables exhibitors, studios and filmmakers to deliver breakthrough entertainment value
from production to distribution to exhibition, REAL D Cinema is poised to create significant new opportunities for
feature film production, alternative programming and high-impact advertising alike.

The REAL D Cinema System transforms ordinary theaters into a rich, lifelike digital 3D entertainment experience.
Our solution mounts onto existing digital theater projection equipment and displays smooth, high-resolution, realis-
tic, full-color 3D images via a single digital projector. We use lightweight, comfortable 3D glasses tinted slightly
lighter than sunglasses to make the viewing experience comfortable for the audience.

REAL D Cinema Highlights

• 2D to 3D changeover: Practical design allows the projectionist to switch between 2D and 3D cinema
presentations using the same projector.

• Multi-projector compatibility: The REAL D Cinema System fits onto digital projectors from most major
manufacturers, including Christie CP2000, Barco D-Cine Premiere DP100 and NEC NC2500.

• Easy installation and removal: The Real D Cinema Control Module and REAL D Cinema Zscreen can
be added to and removed from projection room equipment with minimal hardware and configuration
changes.

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1.1 About This Manual

This manual provides information on recommended daily operation procedures for running a digital projector
when the REAL D Cinema System is installed. Please use this guide in conjunction with the user manual for
your projector; all warnings, guidelines, and advisories in the projector user manual apply.

In This Manual

• An explanation of how the 3D technology works

• An identification of all of the components of the REAL D Cinema System

• Procedures for running a diagnostic check on the system prior to the start of the show

• Procedures for converting from 2D presentation setup to 3D setup, then back to 2D

• Instructions on cleaning and maintaining the REAL D Cinema Zscreen

Intended Audience
This manual is intended for use by projectionists at theaters where REAL D Cinema System is installed. For the
purposes of this guide, it is assumed that:

• The REAL D Cinema System is in place

• The REAL D field service personnel have completed all installation procedures including configuration
files for the projector and calibration of the REAL D Cinema Control Module.

• The theater equipment has passed compliance and meets requirements, including the correct port
glass, lamp type, and silver screen.

This manual is intended for trained users authorized to operate professional projection systems in theater projec-
tion rooms. Users are not expected to perform technical support procedures for the REAL D Cinema System.

Only trained and qualified service technicians knowledgeable about potential hazards associated with high
voltage, ultraviolet exposure and high temperatures generated by the lamp and associated circuits are au-
thorized to 1) assemble/install the REAL D Cinema System and 2) perform service functions inside product
enclosures.

Projector Specific Operation

The Real D Cinema System mounts into and onto theatrical projectors. Please use this guide with user guide
from the manufacturer of your projector.

1.2 How REAL D PROJECTION WORKS

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Human beings have binocular vision, the ability to see two points of view at the same time. The human brain
processes two separate right and left images and combines them into a single impression that provides
depth perception.

Real D uses a proprietary polarizing filter, the REAL D Cinema Zscreen, to control the presentation of right
and left images to create a single 3D impression. During a REAL D presentation, audience members wear
REAL D Polarized Glasses that allow them to see the REAL D 3D image. The two images, left and right are
alternately displayed at a fast rate. The projected image when viewed without glasses looks like two layered
images, slightly offset.

Only polarized glasses manufactured by REAL D will work with REAL D Cinema System. Polarized sun-
glasses and polarized movie glasses from theme parks will not work.

1.3 REAL D SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS

When running the REAL D Cinema System, several important requirements for optimum 3D projection must
be met. The following equipment is required for proper functioning of the REAL D Cinema System. Please
see your REAL D representative for a list of approved vendors.

a. Projector – Any DLP based 2k cinema projector with EFIB and version 10.0 or higher T.I. software

• Lamp – REAL D installer will recommend either a 4500w or 6000w lamp

• Change from 3D to 2D may require a change to a smaller lamp

• Lens – Requires survey to determine the correct lens configuration. 2D may require an addi-
tional lens to fill the screen.

b. Server – 3D enabled DCI compliant server. Currently Dolby, QuVis, Doremi, GDC, and Kodak digital
cinema servers

• Server may require its own rack, depending on booth configuration

c. Projection Screen – REAL D approved silver screen

• Screen Size – maximum size –

- 40ft. flat, 47ft. wide scope

d. Booth

• Space – Projector and REAL D Zscreen

- Minimum 12 inches from front of lens to port glass (15 inches preferred)

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• Port – at least 24” x 24”, within 4 degrees off center (max. 7 feet off center in 100’
throw

• Port Glass

- Water clear glass, with high quality anti-reflective coating on both sides

- Greater than 97% transmission across the spectrum from 425 to 650m

- Reflection off either surface of no more than 2% at any single frequency in that
same range

- 6mm thickness

- Abrisa is the preferred glass

e. REAL D Zscreen and Controller – Zscreen mounts on the front of the projector, the controller mounts in
the 1 rack unit in the base of the projector

f. Glasses – Circular polarized, REAL D approved only

g. Installation – REAL D technical site survey is required before installation. The REAL D 3D upgrade may
be installed once the projector, server system, and silver screen are installed.

h. Training – Installation is preformed by a certified REAL D technician

2. REAL D CINEMA SYSTEM

When installed, the REAL D Cinema System communicates with the existing digital projector. Each REAL D Cin-
ema System has the following hardware, software and mechanical components that convert a 2D digital projector
into a 3D projector:

• REAL D Polarized Glasses

• REAL D Cinema Control Module

• REAL D Cinema Zscreen

• Mounting Hardware

• Connection Cables

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2.1 REAL D CINEMA POLARIZED GLASSES

Polarized Glasses utilize circular polarization technology to provide a realistic, full-color 3D image. The
glasses are disposable and are distributed to the audience. The audience must wear the glasses to see the
3D image. The frame shape and color varies.

Only REAL D Cinema Polarized Glasses will work with REAL D Cinema presentations. The audience CAN-
NOT USE just any pair of glasses. The polarizing filters in the glasses must match the polarization of the
presentation in order for the 3D effect to be viewed correctly.

Warning
DO NOT WEAR POLARIZED GLASSES OUTSIDE. 3D glasses do not
provide UV protection. Polarized filters ARE NOT the same as lenses
used in sunglasses.

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2.2 REAL D CINEMA ZSCREEN

The Zscreen is a liquid crystal filter that polarizes the left and right images to match the polarization in the 3D
glasses worn by the audience.

Zscreen – Front View Zscreen – Back View

# Item Description
A01 Ventilation Grate Promotes airflow to help cool Zscreen

Indicates level position of Zscreen. Zscreen must be level

A02 Level
for maximum performance of 3D.

Changes polarization of projected image to create 3D

A03 Polarization Filter
effect.
B01 Zscreen Connector Port Accepts 6 pin Zscreen connector cable

Makes fine adjustments within a small degree variance to

B02 Fine Level Adjustment Knob
bring the Zscreen level

B03 Lock Nut Allows Zscreen to be mounted onto projector

B04 Fan Grate Allows cool air to flow across the Zscreen surface

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2.3 REAL D CINEMA CONTROL MODULE

The Cinema Control Module interfaces with the projector. The software controls synchronization of the left
and right images with polarized light, as well as normal system functions.

Control Module – Front View

# Item Description
A01 Rack Mount Allows the module to be bolted into place in the projector bay

Indicates whether the system is ON or OFF and reports system phases.

If lit the system is ON.

System phases are as follows:

A02 LED Indicator Light
• Orange – Module is waiting for a signal from the projector
• Red – Module is initializing, or an error condition exists
• Green – Module is receiving synchronization signal that is
appropriate for 3D presentation

Describes system information

The reported information is as follows

A03 LCD Display • Top Line – User Name (default: Real D)
• Bottom Line – Sequences between 1) © Real D Cinema System,
• 2) © Real D (5.6) (or later), 3) Current Controller Module IP addr.
• 4) Sync 144 (typical), 5) Hardware Version # 6) Z-Screen: Status

When installed, the back of the Control Module is accessible from inside the projector pedestal. All wiring and
communications for the Control Module can be attached within the projector pedestal.

TIP
When installing additional cinema sources to the projector, only use REAL D cables
with REAL D equipment. The Control Module may be inoperable, with generic cables.

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Control Module – Rear View and Cable Connections

# Item Description
Connector DC POWER Input connection for DC Power Supply
Connector ZSCREEN Output connection for Zscreen Cable
Connector SYNC OUT Not used
Unit status indicators
Indicator • Both lights on and flickering at high speed – Normal operation
DEFAULTS
Lights • One light on – Not receiving synch from projector
• Both lights on but flickering slowly - Projector not in 3D mode
Changes left to right eye sequence. This switch is set to either “up” or
Connector PHASE
“down” by the REAL D installer
Connector SYNC IN Projector input connection
Connector LAN Ethernet network connection for onsite service
B01 DC Power Supply Provides DC power to Control Module
B02 Zscreen Data Cord Connects module to Zscreen
Connects module to projector communications panel. This cable may
B03 Synch Cable
be projector specific.
Connects module to ethernet hub or computer for setting configuration
B04 LAN Cable
parameters

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2.4 REAL D PROJECTIONIST TEST PATTERN

The REAL D Cinema System includes a test pattern for use by projectionists during pre-show diagnostic checks
to validate the polarization filters and verify that the system is functioning properly.

REAL D System Test

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1) Right and Left phase. With this image projected on a silver screen with the Real D ZScreen in place, put
on a pair of Real D cinema eyewear. While looking at the image on the screen, first close your left eye
and look through your right eye. You should see the red word RIGHT and the green word LEFT should
disappear. If the opposite happens, then you have left and right signals reversed in your set-up.

a) If the phase is incorrect, flip the toggle switch on the back of the Real D control module. Once this
is done, recheck the phase by running this test again.

2) ZScreen performance. While looking through only one eye, you will see one of the vertical rectangles
appear dark at the top and light at the bottom. At some point on this scale, the grayness of the rectangle
should match the grayness of the background. If this point is below the number 5, then the system is
working properly. If this point is above the 5, then there is a problem. Call the Real D support line for
assistance.

3) Framing. The arrows on the edge and corners show the limits of the source material. Adjust the lens
and the theater's screen masking material so that the image is only slightly larger than the screen, ap-
proximately 2”.

4) Image Compression. The circle in the middle of the image should appear as a perfect circular shape. If
it does not, then there is an asymmetry in the image or optical processing path. Call your projector
manufacturer or system integrator for help with this problem.

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2.5 CONNECTION CABLES

The Connection Cables for the REAL D Cinema System have specific electrical and mechanical requirements.
The cables are manufactured for REAL D and cannot be replaced with a generic product. Please order re-
placement cables from REAL D.

The following advisories apply when working with REAL D connection cables:

• The Zscreen Cable IS NOT a phone cord

• The Control Module Data Cable IS NOT a serial cable

• The DC Power Cord and DC Power Supply are specific to the electronic components in the REAL D Cin-
ema Control Module. DO NOT replace REAL D power supply with a power supply from another source.

The following cables are required for the Real D Cinema System to function properly:

1. The Zscreen Cable connects the Control Module to the Zscreen to synchronize the left/right
polarization changes with the 3D media.

2. The Control Module Data Cable connects the Control Module to the projector to receive the 3D synch
signal. The cable design may vary according to the style of projector.

3. The LAN Cable is for use by REAL D service technicians

4. The AC Power Cord connects the DC Power Supply to the internal projector power supply or AC outlet..
The power cord varies according to projector and country.

4a. Barco AC Cord

5. The DC Power Supply provides DC power to the Control Module

1) 2) 3)

4) 4a) 5)

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6. In certain cases, depending on the projector and the country in question, you will need an AC plug
adapter to supply Power to your AC/DC power supply. This illustration depicts an adapter necessary
for use in the U.K.

2.6 MOUNTING HARDWARE

REAL D offers a number of mounting solutions to position the Zscreen in front of the lens. Depending upon the
installation, one of several kits may be in place on the projector.

There are currently two separate mounts for each digital projector:

• Anamorphic lens configuration: The anamorphic lens configuration is used in installations where theater
management has elected to use an anamorphic lens for 3D presentations.

• Prime lens-only configuration (direct): The direct configuration is used in installations where theater man-
agement has elected to use a single prime lens to project 3D presentations.

Please see the assembly instructions included with the projector, the technician also sets up the media server
and projector to work with a 3D presentation. The names of each button and file may vary according to projec-
tion setup.

TIP
Please see the assembly instructions included with the projector mount kit for information regard-
ing the installation and operation of the projector mounting hardware.

2.7 INSTALLATION FEATURES

When the REAL D field service technician installs the REAL D Cinema System in your digital projector, the tech-
nician also sets up the media server and projector to work with a 3D presentation. The names of each button
and file may vary according to projection setup.

The technician loads the following files onto the media server:

• REAL D test media: These proprietary media clips will allow you to verify that the right and left images
are polarizing correctly.

For each installation, the technician creates the following files on the projector:

• REAL D button: Located on the main menu of the touch panel controller, the REAL D button switches
the project to “REAL D mode” (Note: This setting may be labeled with the name of a specific movie for
some installations)

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• REAL D compatible configuration files: These files contain the appropriate settings for cropping, aspect
to ratio, and alignment for a 3D presentation.

TIP
Contact your REAL D service representative before modifying REAL D
Configuration files.

For instructions, please see the server manual from the manufacturer of
the digital projector.

3. REAL D SETUP
In order to provide a seamless 3D presentation, we suggest playing a portion of the presentation on the 3D system
daily before opening to verify that all parts are in working order. The procedures in this section will help projection-
ists:

• Setup and test a 3D presentation

• Play a 3D presentation

• Revert projector setup back to 2D

The following instructions assume that the installation team has completed installation of the projector fully, includ-
ing:

• Checking cooling systems and fans

• Defining the lamp type

• Checking lamp ignition

• Installing and configuring the REAL D Cinema System on projector

• Adding a REAL D button to the main menu

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3.1 PRE-SHOW DIAGNOSTIC CHECK

REAL D recommends the display of our proprietary test media well in advance of the first show to allow projec-
tionist to detect any problems with the REAL D presentation. It is also helpful to run a portion of the actual pres-
entation. A number of common occurrences can interfere with proper projection of a 3D presentation.

As you complete the steps in Section 3, please use the following troubleshooting table to help you identify issues
with the projection setup.

Troubleshooting Table

ISSUE CAUSE RESOLUTION

• Focus lens
• Lens is out of focus
Blurry/fuzzy picture • Clean Zscreen/Port glass
• Zscreen or port glass is dirty

• No Silver Screen in place

• Improper projector parameters • Contact REAL D technical
Doesn’t look “3D”
• Zscreen not in place support, 1-888-3D-HELPP
• System power is in “off” position

• Projector lamp is about to burn out,

• Change lamp setting, and/or
Image is “too dark” Is set too low a setting, or is not a
lamp
6000w lamp

• Phase was reversed on projector

or other server component
• Media server is not sending signal cor • Contact REAL D technical
3D glasses aren’t working
rectly to projector support, 1-888-3D-HELPP
• Control Module is not powered
• Zscreen not connected

• Phase was reversed on projector • Contact REAL D technical

Reversed right and left images
or other server component support, 1-888-3D-HELPP

Misaligned image • Lens not adjusted correctly • Adjust projector setup

• Fingerprints or other blemishes on

Low contrast, “soft” image Lens or Zscreen are distorting image • Adjust focus of lens
• Lens not focused

• Real D setting is incorrect • Contact REAL D technical

Flicker in Image
• Content is not 3D support, 1-888-3D-HELPP

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Escalation
1. If you encounter difficulty with a presentation, please contact REAL D technical support, 1-888-3D-
HELPP

2. If the issue cannot be resolved within the first 20 minutes with assistance from customer support,
contact the theater manager

3. Further escalation will vary according to individual company policy

3.2 UPGRADE PROJECTOR LAMP

The REAL D Cinema System should be used with a projector lamp that provides a screen brightness of be-
tween 3.5 to 5.5 foot lamberts when measured with the Zscreen in place and polarizing eyewear in front of the
light meter. This is equivalent to 24 to 38 foot lamberts when measured without Zscreen and glasses.

A number of factors influence the type of lamp selected for 3D presentations. Check with your REAL D rep-
resentative to determine which lamp should be used for your installation.

Larger theaters may require the upgrade of a projector lamp before running a 3D presentation. Depending
upon the theater chain management, projectionists may be asked to use this lamp exclusively with 3D pres-
entations to preserve the projection life of the lamp. It is quite common for 6000w lamps to last for 500
hours. A 4500w lamp used with normal 2D presentations lasts approximately 1500 hours.

Before running a REAL D presentation, always check that the correct lamp is in the projector.

TIP
For instructions, please see the user manual from the manufacturer of the digital projector

Warning
EXPLOSION AND SHOCK HAZARD. Follow ALL SAFETY INSTRUCITONS in the manual from the manufac-
turer of the digital projector when changing projector lamps

When measuring screen luminance use a calibrated spot luminance meter. Pan the meter around the screen
to find the brightest reading; this is the “hotspot" where the reading should be taken.

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3.3 VERIFY LENS CONFIGURATION

Depending on your installation, several lenses may be available for use with the digital projector in your pro-
jector room. Before running a REAL D presentation, always check that the correct lens is in the projector,
that is, the test image fills the screen without excessive overlap of the masking.

TIP
The correct lens configuration will vary per location based on the parameters of the theater.

3.4 Position and Level Zscreen

After verifying that the correct lens is in place for your projector, position the Zscreen in front of the lens. De-
pending upon the type of mounting hardware installed on your digital projector, this may be achieved by rotating,
lowering or attaching the Zscreen into position.

For optimal projection:

• Position the Zscreen perpendicular to light beam from projector

• Fill as much of the Zscreen glass as possible with light from the projected image without filling the black
metal Zscreen housing. Light displaying on the housing indicates that a portion of the image is clipped
off.

• Use the bright yellow level and the fine adjustment knob at the top of the Zscreen to level Zscreen
horizontally. When the Zscreen is tilted, the audience must crane their heads at the same angle to see
the 3D effect at maximum efficiency causing discomfort.

• Move the Zscreen cable out of the path of the projected image.

Warning
DO NOT touch the ZScreen glass with your bare hands

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3.5 CLEAN ZSCREEN

A small amount of dust or dirt on the Zscreen has minimal effect on image quality. Clean the Zscreen only
when dust, dirt, oil or other marks are obvious. If dust or smudges are present, clean the glass according to
the instructions in the following sections:

• Never touch the optical surface with bare hands. The Zscreen and the projection room port glass are
specially treated with an optical, anti-reflective coating.

• Always use a high-intensity flashlight to check the Zscreen glass for particles

Proper Cleaning Methods

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A. Dust

Tools: Canned Air, Flashlight

Procedure:

1. Leave Zscreen on projector

2. Use canned air to blow-off dust (both-sides)

3. Use high intensity flashlight to check for smudges

B. Fingerprints and Smudges

Tools: Microfiber Cloth, Flashlight

Procedure:

1. Remove Zscreen from mount

2. Remove fingerprints or smudges by rubbing firming with microfiber cloth using linear or circular mo-
tions

3. Use high intensity flashlight to check for residue

C. Resistant Residue

Tools: Microfiber cloth, Anti-Reflective Glass Lens Cleaning Solution, Flashlight

Procedure:

1. Remove Zscreen from mount

2. Apply anti-reflective glass lens cleaning solution to microfiber cloth. NEVER SPRAY GLASS DI-
RECTLY.

3. Remove residue by rubbing firmly with microfiber cloth using linear or circular motions

4. Use high intensity flashlight to check for streaking

5. Use dry portion of microfiber cloth to remove streaking by rubbing gently in a circular motion

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3.6 POWER UP SYSTEM AND PROJECTOR

Depending upon the installation of the digital projector at your facility, turning on the projector may influence a
number of variables. For example, some installations may be set up so that the projector controls the house
lights, lamp ignition, audio and the start of the feature. The power-up procedure will vary according to these
variables.

Similarly, projectionists may either perform a manual shutoff, or the projector may be set to turn off automati-
cally after a presentation and a cool-down procedure. Check with the appropriate technician to determine
how the projector turns off.

When Powering Up
Two important factors should be considered when powering up the projector:

• The fan in the Zscreen assembly MUST be running when light is projected through it

• When checking the Zscreen DO NOT TOUCH THE GLASS

When Powering Down

After a presentation is complete, leave the Zscreen in place and allow the projector to complete the automatic
shut-down procedure.

Warning
DO NOT turn on LAMP if Zscreen FAN is NOT running

TIP
For instructions, please see the user manual from the
manufacturer of the digital projector

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3.7 VERIFY THAT FAN IS RUNNING

Powering up the projector should turn on the Zscreen fan automatically. To check the Zscreen to make sure
that the fan is running, feel for air just behind the assembly WITHOUT TOUCHING THE GLASS, as shown in
the picture below.

Figure 8: Fan Location

If the fan is not running:

• Check that all connector cables are attached correctly

• Verify that all cables are supplied by REAL D

• Verify that the connections are tight

• Verify the control module is powered on

Warning
DO NOT project light through the Zscreen when THE FAN IS NOT RUNNING

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3.8 VERIFY CONTROL MODULE CONFIGURATION

Check the Control Module’s LCD indicator light

• If the light is RED, check all connector cables and verify that the connections are tight. The light will
also display yellow or red if the cables are not correctly set-up.

• If the light is GREEN, the system is communicating properly with the projector and the projector is set to
the proper frame multiplier setting, 6:2.

• If the input is ORANGE, then the sync frequency is set to an incorrect frame multiplier mode.

TIP
The LCD Indicator Light will display RED while the Control Module is initializing

Figure 9: LCD Indicator Light

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4. PLAY REAL D PRESENTATION

When all setup procedures for 3D presentations are complete, you may run the REAL D presentation.

Running the REAL D presentation requires the following steps:

• Setting the projector to REAL D settings

• Igniting the lamp

• Playing a 3D presentation media file

4.1 SELECT REAL D PRESENTATION SETTINGS ON PROJECTOR

During installation for the digital projector, the REAL D field service technician uses the touch panel controller
to create a button on the Main menu titled REAL D. Clicking this button sets the projector to 3D mode.

4.2 IGNITE LAMP

The digital projector will not start the presentation until the lamp is lit. Depending on your installation, other
actions may be associated with the ignition of the lamp, such as the lowering of the house lights and synchro-
nization of sound, among other variables.

TIP

Please consult theater management for the proper procedure for igniting the lamp

4.3 START 3D MEDIA FILE ON DIGITAL MEDIA SERVER

Starting a 3D media file works the same way as starting a normal 2D media file. The 3D effect is created
when the media file is prepared for theatrical release, before it is loaded onto the media server.

The REAL D Cinema System communicates with most theatrical-quality digital media servers currently on the
market. Please consult the user guide for your digital media server for instructions on how to start a media
file.

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For instructions, please see the user manual from the manufacturer of the digital projector

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5. CONVERSION TO 2D
The REAL D Cinema System allows projectionists to quickly change between 3D and 2D presentations. When
not running a 3D presentation, you may either move the Zscreen out of the way or detach it for long-term stor-
age.

The following sections will help the projectionists:

• Revert the digital projector to 2D mode

The basic steps for changing from a REAL D presentation mode to 2D presentation mode are:

1. Move the Zscreen away from the front of the projector

2. Change the projector lamp to an appropriate lamp for the 2D presentation that is planned

3. Change the projector lens to an appropriate lens for the 2D presentation that I planned

TIP

The silver screen used for REAL D presentations will also provide excellent perform-
ance for 2D presentations

5.1 SETUP FOR 2D

Move Zscreen Away from the Lens

All REAL D projector mounts are designed to allow you to move the Zscreen out of the path of the projected
image and away from the lens.

ALWAYS MOVE THE ZSCREEN AWAY FROM THE LENS before removing the Zscreen from the projector.
Moving the Zscreen away from the lens lessens the likelihood that the lens and Zscreen glass will touch, dis-
turbing the optical coating on the Zscreen.

Depending upon the type of mounting hardware installed on your digital projector, movement may be
achieved by rotating or raising the Zscreen into a retracted position.

Restore 2D Presentation Settings on Projector

Depending upon your installation, any number of macro buttons may be established on the digital projector
controller. When converting back to 2D presentations, select the macro button that is appropriate to the type
of 2D presentation scheduled. When 2D is played the projector will display in 2D mode.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

REAL D offers these FAQ’s to help clarify frequent areas of confusion

Why can some audience members see the 3D effect and not others?
There are a number of reasons why some audience members can’t see the 3D Effect. The following checklist
will help you determine the cause:

• Is the audience member wearing 3D glasses from REAL D? REAL D presentations require REAL D
eyewear to display the 3D effect. The polarization filters in the eyewear must match the polarization fil-
ter in the Zscreen for the 3D effect to be viewed correctly. 3D glasses from the theme parks, specialty
theaters, or other manufactures will not work with REAL D enabled presentations.

• Is the customer wearing 3D glasses over prescription glasses? Check with the customer that the cus-
tomer’s prescription eyewear does not include polarized lenses. Polarized eyewear used in conjunc-
tion with the polarizing filters in the REAL D eyewear will block the 3D effect and possibly the image it-
self.

• Does the customer have “normal” vision? Some customers may have limited vision in one eye. Ade-
quate vision in both eyes is requires to see the 3D effect. While wearing 3D glasses customers with
limited vision in one eye will only see the flat 2D image without the 3D effect.

Can customers wear REAL D 3D glasses over prescription eyewear?

Yes. Customers with special vision requirements can wear their prescription glasses with REAL D eyewear.

What is the difference between the REAL D Cinema System and a 3D system from a
theme park system?
The REAL D system provides separation of the right and left views using a single projector in a way that allows
the viewer to perceive a crisp, bright, colorful image with no shadowing of the wrong image to either eye. By
using a single digital projector, REAL D can show first a right eye image, and then a left eye image. The eye
blends these images together so that a single, stereoscopic view is perceived.

Theme park systems require the use of two projectors, each showing a different left or right eye perspective.
These projectors have to be perfectly synchronized in time, and also on the projection screen in order to pre-
sent a coherent 3D image.

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