Description
Da-Lite Fast-Fold NXT Projection Screen
The Da-Lite Fast-Fold NXT Projection Screen was engineered for rental and staging environments where quick deployment, rugged reliability, and high-quality projections are essential. Although discontinued on August 30, 2019, this system established a benchmark for portable, professional-grade screens and remains a reference point for surface quality and structural durability. The NXT line introduced a re‑imagined design with stronger extrusion, improved hinges and corners, and a new height-adjustment feature that expands the usable viewing area across a variety of venues. For installers and event teams, it represented a fast, straightforward solution that could be set up by a small crew with minimal tools, while still delivering consistent, bright images to audiences of all sizes. Its legacy continues through the Fast-Fold Deluxe, the replacement product built to preserve the core advantages of the NXT while advancing setup speed and overall robustness.
- Ultimate portability and rapid deployment: The Fast-Fold NXT is purpose-built for travel and on-site assembly. Its collapsible frame folds into a compact profile, allowing a single operator or a small crew to unload, unfold, and secure the screen in minutes. The lightweight yet sturdy construction reduces transport fatigue and makes inventory management easier for rental houses, conference centers, and touring productions. With intuitive latching and simple hinge systems, setup times shrink dramatically, so crews can focus on presentation rather than the mechanics of assembly.
- Durable, reinforced construction for heavy use: This screen features a stronger extrusion profile, reinforced hinges, and improved corner joints designed to withstand repeated packing, transport, and reassembly. The result is a more rigid, stable viewing surface that resists sagging or misalignment even after frequent use in demanding environments. The upgrade in materials and joinery translates to longer product life in touring schedules, education venues with high-use cycles, and busy trade show floors where reliability matters most.
- Flexible viewing area with height adjustment: A key architectural enhancement is the adjustable viewing area, which accommodates varying ceiling heights, projector throw distances, and audience arrangements. Users can raise or lower the screen surface to optimize sightlines for front-row viewers and balcony sections alike, while maintaining proper screen tension and a flat, uniform image. This adaptability makes the NXT a versatile choice for rental fleets and venues that host a wide range of events—from corporate briefings to film screenings.
- Premium projection surface for bright, uniform imagery: The matte white screen fabric delivers clean, accurate color reproduction and wide viewing angles. It is designed to minimize hot spots and ensure even illumination across the entire viewing area, even as ambient light varies. The surface works well with a broad range of projectors, providing a dependable canvas for presentations, training sessions, and entertainment alike. The fabric’s balance between gain, diffusion, and contrast supports crisp text, detailed graphics, and vibrant visuals in typical event lighting conditions.
- Discontinued with a trusted legacy; replacement by Fast-Fold Deluxe: While the Fast-Fold NXT was phased out, its design philosophy lives on in Da-Lite’s Fast-Fold Deluxe, which carries forward the strengths of the NXT—durability, ease of use, and high-quality projection—while incorporating refinements for even quicker setup and streamlined operation in modern production environments. This transition reflects Da-Lite’s commitment to maintaining professional portable screens that meet the evolving needs of venues, event services, and rental companies seeking dependable, fast-install solutions.
Technical Details of Da-Lite Fast-Fold NXT Projection Screen
- Brand: Da-Lite
- Model: Fast-Fold NXT Projection Screen
- Projection surface: Matte White screen fabric with uniform gain; optimized for front projection and reliable color fidelity across viewing angles
- Frame construction: Reinforced aluminum extrusion paired with improved hinges and corner joints to maximize rigidity and durability
- Viewing area: Height-adjustable viewing area to suit diverse room heights, seating configurations, and projector placements
- Portability: Foldable frame with a protective travel case designed for frequent transport and storage in rental fleets
- Mounting and setup: Primarily designed for portable use with stand-mounted or on-floor deployment; compatible with common staging layouts and event spaces
- Discontinued status: Official discontinuation date August 30, 2019; replacement with Fast-Fold Deluxe to preserve core benefits while enhancing usability
How to install Da-Lite Fast-Fold NXT Projection Screen
- Prepare the setup area by clearing space and ensuring a clean, dry surface. Check that your overhead or side equipment, including lighting and projection gear, will not interfere with the screen’s movement or operation.
- Unpack all components and inspect for any transit damage. Confirm that the frame, hinges, corner pieces, screen fabric, and carry case are present and free of defects.
- Extend the base legs and spread the frame on the floor. Lock each leg clamp securely to form a stable rectangular frame that will support the screen surface during deployment.
- Unfold and connect the corner joints and hinges, ensuring every connection clicks into place. The frame should feel rigid and square as you assemble the perimeter.
- Attach the projection surface to the frame edge if it is not pre-attached. Smooth out any wrinkles and verify border alignment so the image projects evenly across the viewing area.
- Adjust the height to match the projector alignment and viewing audience. Use the built-in height adjustment mechanism to raise or lower the screen until the top edge aligns with the desired projection height, then lock the position securely.
- Position the screen in the intended location, verify that the surface remains taut, and perform a quick projection check to confirm edge uniformity and brightness across the surface. Make any final tensioning adjustments as needed.
- Secure the installation with any required stabilizers or safety measures appropriate to the venue, especially if the screen will be used in high-traffic areas or in spaces with crowd movement or strong air currents.
Frequently asked questions
- Q: Is the Da-Lite Fast-Fold NXT still available? A: The NXT line was discontinued on August 30, 2019. The recommended contemporary replacement is the Fast-Fold Deluxe, which preserves the core benefits of portability and professional image quality while offering enhancements for faster setup and easier handling.
- Q: What sizes does it come in? A: The Fast-Fold NXT was offered in multiple width and aspect configurations to fit varied venues and projector setups. Exact dimensions depend on the SKU. Check the retailer’s listing or Da-Lite’s official catalog for available sizes and aspect ratios (e.g., 4:3 and 16:9 options).
- Q: Can it be used for rear projection? A: The screen is designed primarily for front projection. Rear-projection setups require compatible materials and enclosure options tailored for rear-facing illumination and viewing.
- Q: How should I maintain the screen? A: Keep the fabric surface clean with a soft brush or microfiber cloth. Avoid harsh solvents or aggressive cleaning agents. Store the screen in its protective travel case in a dry environment to prevent fabric wear and frame corrosion over time.
- Q: Is installation safe for non-professionals? A: Yes—when following the provided setup guidelines and appropriate lifting practices. The Fast-Fold system is designed for straightforward assembly by trained staff or individuals with basic mechanical skills, though two-person assistance is recommended for larger configurations.
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