FAQs From The Show Floor

We captured the most frequent and unique questions we answered at InfoComm 2022 about our new cable drop feature, SightLine, and we’re bringing these topics back to you. Let’s get started.

I saw this cable feature/screen in the Legrand | AV booth at InfoComm three years ago.

Not quite. The SightLine feature was just released in January 2022 and is available and shipping. At InfoComm 2019, we featured our new contrast-based Parallax Stratos 1.0 ambient light rejection screen surface with the Wireline Advantage. While the Wireline is also a cable drop screen, it’s a different beast. Here’s why. The Wireline:

• Is a large format solution (up to 226” D)
• Cable drop is 29’ – think cathedral ceilings
• Uses a two-piece roller – a more industrial design to accommodate serious cable length

What is the standard length for the SightLine cable drop?

The aircraft cables (1 mm diameter) accommodate a range of drop distances up to 70” between the ceiling and the top of the screen.

Do I cut the cable to the appropriate length?

No. When you order a Tensioned Advantage or Advantage with the SightLine Cable Drop feature, you always get 70” of cable. Simply lower the screen to the appropriate viewing height and set the down limit. The unused portion of the cable rests comfortably in the notch created specifically for the cable in the screen’s roller. There is no “cutting” of the cable or additional steps as it relates to the cable as a part of the installation.

Do I need to specify the cable drop distance at ordering – the same way I order black drop?

No, that’s the cool part – it’s a painless ordering process without the added step of custom drawings and approval. When you order a Tensioned Advantage or Advantage with the SightLine Cable drop, the cables accommodate a range of drop distances up to 70" between the ceiling and the top of the screen. You simply lower the screen to the appropriate vertical placement and set the down limit. The unused portion of the cable rests comfortably in the notch created specifically for the cable in the roller. This is your new go-to screen feature!

I don’t know how I feel about using a new product…

Rest easy. This feature is an addition to our highest running and flagship electric screens – Tensioned Advantage and Advantage. We didn’t change the basic design of the screen, including the case and the motor. The only change you’ll notice is the way the screen surface rolls off the front of the roller to accommodate the smooth roll cover that protects the screen surface when it’s retracted.

What are the minimum and maximum sizes of the Tensioned Advantage and Advantage available with the SightLine feature?

• 16:9
  • Tensioned Advantage
    • Min: 92”
    • Max: 177”
  • Advantage
    • Min: 92”
    • Max: 184”

• 16:10
  • Tensioned Advantage
    • Min: 94”
    • Max: 182”
  • Advantage
    • Min: 94”
    • Max: 189”

What screen surface pairings are available when you select the SightLine feature?

The Tensioned Advantage is available with ALR and High-Resolution Screen Surfaces up to 16K.

The Advantage is available with standard resolution screen surfaces.

Is the SightLine feature available with rear projection screen surfaces?

We can manufacture the Tensioned Advantage with SightLine for rear projection, however, to accommodate the Smooth Roll Cover, we would have to add 15” of black drop above the viewing area. This could also help add a bit more drop if your installation maxes out the 70” of standard cable.

What is the cost delta of the SightLine vs. standard black drop?

The cable drop feature is only 5% over the standard Tensioned Advantage/Advantage. However, more black drop may quickly yield more cost savings.

If I have a Tensioned Advantage and Advantage with SightLine screen, can I still swap the screen surface should I need to?

Yes. We recommend replacing the fabric and roller as an assembly.

If I have a Tensioned Advantage or Advantage with standard black drop, can I retrofit the new SightLine feature?

No. A currently installed Advantage cannot be re-configured so that the fabric slot is located at the front of the case.

When I choose the SightLine feature with the Tensioned Advantage and Advantage, is two-stage installation still an option?

Yes. The two-stage installation option affords the screen case to be installed during the rough-in construction stage, and the screen surface assembly during the finishing stage.

Will the SightLine feature be available in other Da-Lite products, like wall or ceiling mounted solutions?

We are exploring options for different case designs, so hang tight for a timeline.

Can I control the Tensioned Advantage and Advantage Screens with IP?

Yes! Check out the RS-232 with Ethernet Adapter Kit. The RS-232 Interface allows wired remote control of a screen. The Ethernet Adapter for the RS-232 Interface allows the freedom of wired remote control of a screen through a TCP/IP connection. 

Can we make the Tensioned Advantage and Advantage Screen in 21:9 aspect ratio?

Tensioned Advantage® with SightLine™ is now available in 21:9 Ultrawide Format part numbers.

Ultrawide format is quickly becoming the standard for displaying hybrid video conferencing solutions, where all attendees, whether they are in person or virtual, are equitably seen and heard. Strengthen productivity, engagement and inclusivity by featuring Ultrawide Format projection screens in conference rooms, boardrooms, small classrooms and more.

Are you looking for other products in 21:9 Ultrawide Format? Check out these electric and fixed frame screens including Tensioned Contour, Cinema Contour and UTB Contour.

Don't see your favorite product listed? Screen Designer can be used to customize any Da-Lite product to 21:9 Ultrawide Format or any custom wide size.

See the complete 21:9 portfolio

More about the SightLine cable drop feature:

Da-Lite’s new cable drop feature, SightLine, available with the tried-and-true Tensioned Advantage (up to 177" Diagonal 16:9 and up to 182" Diagonal 16:10) electric screen, gives the impression of a floating screen. A suspension system in its single roller design features 3 or 4 thin cables eliminating the need for black drop – the black border above the projection screen. While the market is accustomed to specifying drop distance upon ordering, now vertical placement of the screen can be variable as the cables accommodate a range of drop distances up to 70" between the ceiling and the top of the screen – making ordering a snap. What’s more, this feature creates usable space above the viewing area to preserve architectural interests and provides the opportunity for camera/speaker placement. Enhanced aesthetics, painless ordering, smooth installation and future proofing for height adjustability – this is the fine line between status quo and jaw drop.