WE217 Projector Lens 0.52–0.64:1 for 2 EIKI Models Including EK-308U and 309W

WE217 is a short-throw lens for 0.64-inch panels (EIKI), with a 0.52–0.64:1 throw ratio and lens shift. It is compatible with 2 projector models from 1 model series. This guide presents the lens specifications, installation distances, model compatibility list, and key replacement considerations in one place.

I. Lens Specifications

Lens shift is the key differentiator of this lens. Its horizontal ±18% and vertical ±13% shift ranges allow the projector to be installed off the screen centerline and the image repositioned through lens shift without using keystone correction. Keystone correction comes at a cost—each adjustment reduces the effective pixel count and can blur text at the edges. In professional installations, never use keystone correction when lens shift can solve the problem; this is fundamental to preserving image quality.

II. Calculating Installation Distance from Throw Ratio

The throw ratio is the ratio of the installation distance to the image width. This lens has a zoom range of 0.52–0.64:1, so a given image size corresponds to a range of installation distances. The lens can be focused at any distance within that range.

The distances above are the clear distances from the front lens surface to the screen and do not include clearance at the rear of the projector for heat dissipation and cabling. They are calculated for a 16:10 image; actual values should be confirmed through on-site measurement and the manual.

Image quality differs at the two ends of the zoom range: toward the short-throw end, the image is brighter and the edges are slightly softer; toward the long-throw end, the edges are sharper and brightness is slightly lower. When the venue allows, use the middle of the range. After installation, first find the sharpest setting using the focus ring, then fine-tune the shift—adjusting both at once makes precise alignment difficult.

III. Compatible Models (2 Models, EIKI)

The table below is arranged by model production date, from newest to oldest, and lists each model’s resolution, brightness, and zoom ratio for the original factory lens, making it easy to identify the right option for your project needs.

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

Common Characteristics of These Models

The original standard lenses for both models mostly fall within the 1.07-1.75:1 throw-ratio range. The 0.52–0.64:1 throw ratio of the lens featured here effectively adjusts the focal-length range, allowing a different image size at the same projection distance—this is the direct reason for replacing the lens. It also retains full lens shift capability, allowing the image to be realigned after changing the focal range.

IV. Three Checks Before Replacement

• Panel and resolution must match. This model is designed for 0.64-inch panels. Projection performance can vary for projectors with different panel sizes or resolutions, so the safest approach is to check the nameplate on the projector body before installation.
• Interface and locking mechanism. Interfaces are generally compatible across platforms of the same generation, but the position of the locking latch varies by generation. If the image appears skewed or the edges are not sharp after installation, the lock is usually not fully engaged rather than the lens itself being faulty.
• Allow for lens shift in the installation plan. The shift range provides installation flexibility, but edge image quality declines at the extremes. In practice, actual shift should remain within 70% of the specified values.

For a model not on the list, the safest approach is to send us a photo of the nameplate on the projector body and the original lens for verification. Platforms of the same generation often share interfaces, but placing an order based solely on a similar model number carries unnecessary risk.