The hours are based on the projectors running non-stop from their first full day of operation in late August 2007 through June 17, 2008. The routine changing of the consumable components, some of which may have been replaced during this period, is part of the normal expected maintenance and is not counted.
Christie confirmed the high reliability of its rear projection products in a separate study of over 850 Christie RPMX / RPMSP DLP projection systems in the field operating 24/7. The study found these Christie systems run with an average of 63,000 hours MTBF (Mean Time Between Failure), the longest documented hours of operation in the industry. Based on the study, projectors at the AT&T GNOC can be expected to log nearly nine million hours - or more than seven years - of sustained 24/7 operation, says the company.
"Christie engineers take reliability very seriously, designing projectors that stand up to the rigours of real world operation," observed Kevin Barlow, senior director of sales for US Control Rooms at Christie. "In 24/7 control room settings, product dependability is more than important - it is critical. The AT&T GNOC is the ultimate proving ground for projection systems, and we are proud that Christie products have 'passed the test' flawlessly."
Barlow noted that the AT&T GNOC has been using Christie projectors since 1999, upgrading to the current dual-lamp SXGA+ model in 2007. The latest models feature higher efficiency optics as well as cooler-running projection systems that consume up to a third less power. "They are designed to significantly cut electrical bills and air conditioning needs, creating a 'greener' site.
"Upgrading video display walls with more efficient Christie projectors, regardless of the current brand installed, will not only provide companies with maximum reliability, it may also help them to cut back substantially on their energy consumption. It can be a demonstrable part of a company's green initiative," Barlow added.
(Jim Evans)
