Sharp NP-02HD – DCI 2K Digital Cinema Projector Head

Product Overview

The Sharp NEC NP-02HD is a DCI-compliant 2K digital cinema projector head designed for theaters with screens up to 72 feet wide. As the core of the NC2402ML series, it pairs with NEC's modular laser light modules — the NP-24LU01 or NP-20LU01 RB laser modules, or the NP-18LU01 B laser module — giving exhibitors a flexible, future-proof cinema projection platform. The 3-chip DLP cinema projector head delivers native 2048 x 1080 resolution, 2,000:1 contrast, and 3D capability with virtually maintenance-free operation for a low total cost of ownership.

Product Description

The NP-02HD projector head is sold without a laser light module, allowing cinema operators to choose the brightness tier that fits each auditorium: 24,000 lumens (NP-24LU01 RB laser), 20,000 lumens (NP-20LU01 RB laser), or 18,000 lumens (NP-18LU01 B laser). When configured with the 24,000-lumen RB module, the system forms the NC2402ML — capable of delivering 14 ft-L DCI color on screens up to 72 ft. / 22 m wide. The RB laser design combines red and blue lasers with phosphor for a rich color spectrum and consistent brightness over the light source's service life.

This modular architecture is built for uptime. Laser modules slide in and can be swapped in roughly 15 minutes, so a theater can recover from a light source issue between showings rather than losing screens for days. Auto brightness control compensates for laser aging to hold constant on-screen output, and the lamp-free design eliminates lamp stocking, replacement labor, and exhaust ducting — the head suits both floor and ceiling installation in the projection booth.

Six bayonet-style zoom lenses (NC-60LS12Z through NC-60LS39Z) with motorized zoom, focus, and lens shift cover throw ratios from 1.20:1 to 6.52:1. Memory functions store lens position and light output for eight direct-select projector configurations, simplifying changeovers between flat and scope content. An optional touchscreen controller and standard RS-232, RJ45 LAN, and GPIO interfaces integrate the head into theater management and automation systems. NEC's liquid-cooled optical engine with dust-protected sealed sections supports approximately 30,000 hours of expected DMD and laser usage under normal conditions.

Key Features

• DCI-Compliant 2K Resolution — Native 2048 x 1080 3-chip DLP cinema imaging meets Digital Cinema Initiatives standards for commercial theatrical exhibition.
• Modular Laser Light Sources — Accepts swappable 24,000, 20,000, or 18,000-lumen laser modules so one head serves different auditorium sizes.
• 15-Minute Module Swap — Slide-in laser module replacement minimizes downtime if a light source needs emergency service.
• RB Laser Color Performance — Red and blue lasers paired with phosphor produce a rich DCI color spectrum with high brightness.
• Lamp-Free, Low-TCO Operation — No lamp replacement, no lamp stock, and no exhaust system requirement reduce running costs.
• Auto Brightness Control — Automatically adjusts laser power as the light source ages to maintain constant screen brightness.
• Six Motorized Lens Options — Bayonet lenses from 1.20:1 to 6.52:1 throw with electronic zoom, focus, and lens shift fit nearly any booth geometry.
• Eight Stored Configurations — Direct selection buttons recall lens position and light output memories for fast flat/scope changeovers.
• 3D and HFR Capability — Supports 3D exhibition and high frame rate content for premium presentations.
• Dust-Protected Liquid Cooling — Independent sealed cooling sections for the optical engine and light source protect image quality in booth environments.

Typical Applications

• Auditorium
• Broadcast studio
• Multi-purpose room

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the NP-02HD include a laser light module or lens?

No. The NP-02HD is the projector head only. You add one of three laser light modules (NP-24LU01, NP-20LU01, or NP-18LU01) and one of six NC-60LS series bayonet lenses to complete the system for your screen size and booth geometry.

What is the difference between the NP-02HD and the NC2402ML?

The NC2402ML is the same projector head shipped with the 24,000-lumen NP-24LU01 RB laser module built in. Buying the NP-02HD head separately lets exhibitors choose or lease the laser module independently.

Is this projector DCI compliant for commercial theatrical exhibition?

Yes. The NP-02HD-based system is a DCI-compliant DLP Cinema projector delivering native 2K (2048 x 1080) resolution, suitable for first-run theatrical content with an appropriate integrated media server.

How large a screen can it cover?

With the 24,000-lumen NP-24LU01 module, the system supports screens up to 72 ft. / 22 m wide at 14 ft-L in DCI color (assuming a 1.8 gain screen).

How quickly can a laser module be replaced?

The slide-in modular design allows a laser light module swap in approximately 15 minutes, minimizing auditorium downtime during emergency service.

Does it require an exhaust duct?

No. The laser light source eliminates the external exhaust system required by xenon lamp projectors, allowing flexible floor or ceiling installation in the booth.

How is the projector controlled and automated?

The head provides RS-232C, RJ45 LAN, and GPIO interfaces for theater management and automation systems, plus an optional touchscreen controller and eight direct-select stored configurations.

What warranty applies?

Registered owners receive a 2-year parts and labor limited warranty. Creation Networks can assist with registration, lens and module selection, and booth integration planning.