Vivitek D98-1215 Short Zoom Lens Review: DU9900Z-BK Compatibility

Vivitek Original Lens D98-1215 Short Zoom is an original optical accessory for Vivitek engineering projectors. It offers a standard throw (Standard Throw), a throw ratio of 1.20-1.56:1, and is designed for the inch-sized panels of the DU/DW/DX engineering series. The factory compatibility list covers 1 model; simply verify the projector model and panel size before installation, with no need for adapter rings. The value of an original lens lies not in a few additional specification figures, but in factory calibration to the optical path and mount of that projector series: once installed, the image circle, edge illumination, and focusing range remain at their designed values, eliminating the need to use keystone correction to compensate for image quality.

1. Lens Specifications

The above specifications are subject to the manufacturer’s official specifications. For mechanical dimensions, flange distance, and mount type not shown in the specifications table, please verify them with us using the exact projector model. Ordering based solely on a similar model carries the risk that the lens will not fit.

2. Converting Throw Ratio into Installation Distance

The throw ratio is the ratio of installation distance to image width. This original lens has a zoom range of 1.20-1.56:1, so each image size corresponds to a range of installation distances. The lens can be focused anywhere within the applicable range.

The above figures represent the clear distance from the front of the lens to the screen and do not include clearance at the rear of the projector for ventilation and cabling. These figures assume a 16:10 image; actual distances should be verified on site and in accordance with the manufacturer’s manual.

Image quality differs at the two ends of the zoom range: near the close end, the image is brighter and the edges are slightly softer; near the long end, the edges are sharper and brightness is slightly lower. When the venue allows, positioning the lens in the middle of the range is recommended. After installation, find the sharpest position using the focus ring, then fine-tune the lens shift.

3. Compatible Models (1 model)

The following table is taken from the manufacturer’s compatibility list. Brightness and resolution have been populated from the model database; entries that cannot be obtained are marked with “—” and have not been estimated.

To determine whether a model not listed here is compatible, send us photographs of the projector nameplate and the existing lens for verification. Platforms of the same generation often share the same mount, but the risks of ordering based on a similar model are not worth taking.

Throw Ratios Across Model Series

When the same D98-1215 Short Zoom lens is installed on the following series, the nominal throw ratio varies. Select the value based on the series of the actual projector.

4. Three Checks Before Replacement

• Confirm that the panel size matches. D98-1215 Short Zoom is designed for inch-sized panels in the DU/DW/DX engineering series. Even if the mount fits, projectors with a different panel size or resolution may experience problems with the image circle and edge illumination.
• Calculate the installation distance first. This lens has a nominal throw ratio of 1.20-1.56:1. Use the table in Section 2 to calculate the required distance for your venue. Fixed-focus lenses offer no adjustment margin, while zoom lenses should also allow an extra 10–20 cm at both ends of the range.
• Verify the mount and locking mechanism. The original lens is calibrated for the mount used on projectors in this series. You must hear the lens click into the locked position after installation. A skewed image and soft edges are usually caused by incomplete locking rather than a problem with the lens itself.

If you are unsure, take one photograph of the projector nameplate and one of the existing lens nameplate and send them to us. Verification against the actual products is the most reliable approach.