WK300 Projector Lens 0.46:1 for 3 ViewSmile Models: SML-L1300U, L1700U, LD1500U

WK300 is a short-throw lens for the 0.65/0.66/0.67-inch panel group (ViewSonic), with a 0.46:1 throw ratio 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.

1. Lens Specifications

Lens-shift capability is the key differentiator of this lens. The shift range of 85.2% horizontal and 39.6% vertical allows the projector to be installed off the screen centerline, with lens shift used to reposition the image without relying on keystone correction. Keystone correction comes at a cost—each adjustment reduces the effective pixel count and causes text edges to blur. In professional installations, avoid keystone correction whenever lens shift can resolve the issue; this is the minimum standard for image quality.

2. Calculating Installation Distance from Throw Ratio

The throw ratio is the ratio of installation distance to image width. This is a fixed-focus lens (0.46:1), so the installation distance varies linearly with image size and offers no adjustment margin. Measurements must be taken accurately before installation.

The above distances represent the clear distance from the lens front surface to the screen and do not include space for rear projector cooling and cabling. They are calculated for a 16:10 aspect ratio; actual values should be verified on site and against the manual.

3. Compatible Models (3 Models, ViewSonic)

The table below is arranged 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 refers to 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 described in this article.

Common Features of These Models

The original standard lenses for these 3 models generally have throw ratios in the 1.5-2.4:1 range. The 0.46:1 model in this article effectively changes the focal length, 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 properly aligned after the focal length is adjusted.

4. Three Checks Before Replacement

• Confirm that the panel and resolution match. This model is compatible with a 0.67 inch panel. Projectors with a different panel size or resolution may exhibit differences in projection performance, so checking against the projector nameplate before installation is safest.
• Check the interface and locking mechanism. Interfaces are generally interchangeable within the same platform generation, but the position of the locking latch varies by generation. If the image appears skewed or its edges look soft after installation, the most likely cause is that the lock has not fully engaged, rather than a problem with the lens itself.
• Account for lens-shift margin in the installation. The shift range provides some installation flexibility, but edge image quality declines when the lens is shifted to its limit. For actual use, keep operation within 70% of the nominal values.

To confirm whether an unlisted model is compatible, send us the projector nameplate and a photo of the original lens for verification. Platforms from the same generation often share interfaces, but the risk of placing an order based solely on a similar model designation is not worth taking.