Our company installs and services cinema equipment. At one point, the projectors were in short supply. Right now, screens are the challenge (and in some cases, the additional 3D equipment that is added to the base digital projector).

Even if the equipment suppliers all manage to keep up, there are finite numbers of trained techs who can complete the conversions. Many people question how the big three chains are going to pull off their planned conversions in the 3-5 year time period announced. That is a lot of screens.

The cyclical nature of the cinema business – with busy summers and busy holiday seasons – has an effect on this situation as well. Exhibitors waiting until just before these busy times to install expensive equipment in order to capitalize on the available hollywood content and strong attendance.

Most smaller exhibitors who are dragging their feet with regard to 3D (which inherently means digital projection as well) will likely make a decision if the studios can figure out how to give some assistance. Virtual print fees will make the equation profitable for these theatres. It is difficult to justify – even with increased attendance at 3D films – the extraordinary expense of digital systems needed to support 3D.

When the whole shooting match runs just shy of 100k – per house – it takes an awful lot of successful 3D titles to justify the cost.

Some early jumpers have taken advantage of pulling customers from surrounding markets, but as the industry begins to convert across the board, that advantage will likely diminish.

I have many customers (whom I support) who are ready and willing to pull the trigger once the price is right. These exhibitors – just as much as the studios or anyone else – want to see 3D on their screens. There just needs to be a solution that allows everyone to profit from this exciting new technology – not just the big guys.

A few might whine about having to wear glasses, but as for me – I would wear a funny hat if it meant that I could experience events like the Olympics as though I were actually there. I have been waiting for almost forty years to climb into my viewmaster and have things come to life.

Finally.

Jim Huskey, Outside Sales Manager
Sonic Equipment Company

Imagine seeing the inside of the body in 3d.

James Cameron is doing a lot for 3D right now – lets hope George Lucas comes around and releases his opus using these technologies!

http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/HDi/LASER_TV!!!_California_Startup_Creates_100%E2%80%9D_3D_HDTV_Based_On…_LASERS!/3461