116 vs. 716 (part I)

[P3D Dr. George A. Themelis <fj834@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Ken Luker presented us with an interesting comparison between the TDC 116
and 716 stereo projectors.  A main part of the comparison and the
conclusion:

>My conclusion:  The larger but dimmer image of the 716 is not 
>sufficiently better than the slightly brighter, smaller image of my 
>16 to motivate me to change projectors.

are based not on projector characteristics but on projector "accessories"
(light bulbs and lenses) which are interchangeable.

Regarding bulbs and heat issues:

Each projector can be used with either 500W or 750W bulbs.  The
instructions recommend the 500W bulbs with the 116 and the 750W bulbs with
the 716.  One can certainly use the 500W bulbs in the 716 and many are
using the 750W bulbs in the 116.  

Using the 750W bulbs poses a few questions/concerns:  Can the electric
circuit support the extra current?  Can the projector support the
higher temperature?  Is the projector protecting the slide from the extra
radiation heat?  

I believe that the two projectors have identical electrical, mechanical and
optical components except for two things:  The 716 has ceramic lamp holders
vs. plastic (bakelite) for the 116.  Some people have reported cracking of
the holders in the 116.  I have not experienced any such thing in the
116+750 W bulbs that I have used.  The 716 has a 3-way switch that allows
you to run the fan with the bulbs off.  I have modified my 116 for a 3-ways
switch and I ran the fan w/out the bulbs to cool the projector but don't
know if this has any effect on anything.  

The main heat-related components of the two viewers (fan, heat absorbing
filters) are identical or equivalent.  I can see the difference and I
prefer the 750W bulbs, especially with my new 70" screen!!!

To be continued...


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