WK291 Projector Lens 0.38:1 for 2 SML Engineering Projector Models incl. SML-L2000U, L2300U

WK291 is a short-throw lens for 0.8-inch panels (SML), with a 0.38:1 throw ratio and lens shift. It is compatible with 2 projector models in 1 model series. This guide presents the lens specifications, installation distances, model compatibility list, and replacement key points in one place.

I. Lens Specifications

Lens shift is the key differentiator of this lens. Its horizontal ±17.3% and vertical ±10.9% shift ranges allow the projector to be installed off-axis relative to the screen center and the image to be repositioned using lens shift, without keystone correction. Keystone correction comes at a cost—each adjustment step sacrifices some effective pixels and can blur text edges. In professional installations, never use keystone correction when lens shift can solve the problem; this is the baseline 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 fixed focal length (0.38:1), so the installation distance changes linearly with image size, leaving no adjustment margin. Accurate measurements are essential before installation.

The values above represent the clear distance from the front of the lens to the screen and do not allow for rear housing cooling or cable connection space. Calculated for a 16:10 image; verify actual distances on site and against the manual.

III. Compatible Models (2 Models, SML)

The table below is ordered by model production date, from newest to oldest, and lists each model's resolution, brightness, and zoom ratio of the original lens for quick selection according to 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

For these 2 models, the original standard lenses generally have throw ratios within the 1.18-1.9:1 range. The 0.38:1 model featured in this article effectively changes the focal length, allowing different image sizes from the same projection distance—this is the direct reason for replacing the lens. It also retains full lens-shift capability, allowing the image to remain properly aligned after the focal length is changed.

IV. Three Checks Before Replacement

• The panel and resolution must match. This model is compatible with 0.80-inch panels. Projection performance may vary for projectors with a different panel size or resolution, so the safest approach is to check the projector's nameplate before installation.
• Interface and locking mechanism. Interfaces are generally compatible within the same platform generation, but the locking latch position varies between generations. If the image appears skewed or the edges look soft after installation, the lock is usually not fully engaged, rather than there being a problem with the lens itself.
• Allow for lens-shift margin in the installation. The shift range provides installation flexibility, but edge image quality declines when it is pushed to the limit. For actual use, keep operation within 70% of the specified values.

For models not on the list, the safest approach is to send us the projector's nameplate and a photo of the original lens for verification—projectors on the same platform generation often share interfaces, but ordering based solely on a similar model designation creates unnecessary risk.