WB012 Projector Lens 0.78–0.81:1 for 3 Ricoh Engineering Models: PJ YX620, PJ YW620, PJ YU620

WB012 is a short-throw lens for 0.64-inch panels (Ricoh), with a throw ratio of 0.78–0.81:1 and lens shift. It is compatible with 3 projector models across 1 model series. This article presents the lens specifications, installation distance, model compatibility list, and replacement considerations in one place.

I. Lens Specifications

Lens shift is the key differentiator of this lens. The shift range of 76.00% horizontally and 47.70% vertically allows the projector to be installed off the screen centerline and the image to be realigned using lens shift without requiring keystone correction. Keystone correction comes at a cost—each correction step sacrifices some effective pixels and can blur text edges. In professional installations, never use keystone correction when lens shift can resolve the alignment. This is the minimum standard for image quality.

II. Calculating Installation Distance from the Throw Ratio

The throw ratio is the ratio of the installation distance to the image width. This lens has a zoom range of 0.78–0.81:1, so each image size corresponds to a range of distances, and the lens can focus anywhere within that range.

The distances above are clear distances from the front surface of the lens to the screen and do not account for rear housing ventilation or wiring space. They are calculated for a 16:10 aspect ratio; actual values are subject to on-site measurements and the manual.

Image quality differs at the two ends of the zoom range: at the short-throw end, the image is brighter and the edges are slightly softer; at the long-throw end, the edges are sharper and brightness decreases slightly. Where the venue allows, use the middle of the range. After installation, first find the sharpest position using the focus ring, then fine-tune the lens shift—precise alignment is difficult when both variables are adjusted simultaneously.

III. Compatible Models (3 Models, Ricoh)

The table below is ordered from newest to oldest by model introduction date and includes each model’s resolution, brightness, and original standard lens zoom ratio, making it easy to identify the right option for project requirements.

The zoom ratio is the zoom factor of the model’s original standard lens (upper limit ÷ lower limit of the original throw ratio range), not the zoom range of the lens featured in this article.

Common Features of These Models

The original standard lenses for all 3 models generally have throw ratios in the 1.4-2.28：1 range. The 0.78–0.81:1 model featured in this article effectively adjusts the focal length range, allowing different image sizes at the same projection distance—this is the direct reason for replacing the lens. It also retains full lens shift capability, so the image can still be aligned after the focal range has been changed.

IV. Three Checks Before Replacement

• Ensure the panel and resolution match. This model is designed for a 0.64-inch panel. Projectors with different panel sizes or resolutions will display somewhat different results, so the safest approach is to verify the projector nameplate before installation.
• Check the interface and locking mechanism. Interfaces are generally compatible within the same platform generation, but the locking latch position varies by generation. If the image appears skewed or the edges are not sharp after installation, the most common cause is an incompletely engaged lock, rather than an issue with the lens itself.
• Factor the lens shift margin into the installation. The shift range provides installation flexibility, but edge image quality declines when it is pushed to the limit. For actual use, keep the shift within 70% of the rated value.

For models not on the list, the safest approach is to send us the projector nameplate and a photo of the original lens for verification. Models on the same platform generation often share the same interface, but placing an order based solely on a similar model designation is not worth the risk.