The BenQ AH500ST is a 4000-lumen Full HD laser projector designed primarily for indoor golf simulation in compact spaces. Its ultra-short throw ratio of 0.499:1 allows it to project a large image from a relatively short distance, helping reduce shadows caused by players standing between the projector and the impact screen. Dedicated Golf Mode, laser illumination, and flexible screen-format support make it suitable for purpose-built golf simulator rooms and other entertainment applications.
Overview
The BenQ AH500ST combines a single-chip DLP projection system with a laser light source and native 1920 × 1080 resolution. It is designed for golf simulation environments where installation distance, image alignment, brightness, and realistic course colours are important considerations.
With 4000 ANSI lumens of brightness, support for HDR10 and HLG signals, and multiple picture modes, the projector can also display compatible movies, sports, and other entertainment content. Its fixed-focus optical design and dedicated setup functions help simplify installation in smaller rooms.
Short-Throw Projection for Golf Simulators
The AH500ST features a 0.499:1 throw ratio, allowing it to produce a large projected image without requiring the long installation distance associated with conventional projectors. This is particularly useful in indoor golf simulator spaces where ceiling height, room depth, and player positioning can restrict projector placement.
- 0.499:1 throw ratio: Projects a large image from a short distance.
- Reduced player-shadow interference: Short-throw positioning helps keep the projector closer to the screen and away from the main hitting area.
- Fixed optical zoom: Uses a fixed lens configuration rather than a variable optical zoom lens.
- Quick Focus: Provides a convenient focusing function for installation and adjustment.
- Screen Fill: Supports 16:9, 16:10, 4:3, and 1:1 image formats.
Full HD Resolution and 4000 Lumens
The projector's native resolution is 1920 × 1080, providing Full HD detail for golf simulation software, films, sports, and presentations. Its 4000 ANSI-lumen brightness specification supports clear projected images in appropriately controlled indoor environments.
The AH500ST accepts supported input resolutions ranging from VGA through 4K UHD, but its native projected resolution remains 1080p. A higher-resolution input is processed for display at the projector's native resolution.
Dedicated Golf Mode
BenQ's Golf Mode is designed to reproduce golf-course colours with an emphasis on grass, fairways, and sand. It provides a dedicated picture preset for indoor golf simulation, helping create a more natural-looking course presentation when used with compatible simulation software and an appropriately configured screen.
The projector also includes Cinema, Game, HDR10, HLG, sRGB, and user-configurable picture modes for other viewing requirements.
Laser Light Source and Long Operating Life
The laser light source eliminates the need for routine projector-lamp replacement. BenQ specifies a light-source life of up to 20,000 hours in Normal mode and up to 38,000 hours in ECO mode. Actual operating life depends on usage conditions, settings, and maintenance.
The projector also features a dust-resistant optical design intended to help protect internal components in typical operating environments. Follow BenQ's installation and maintenance instructions to preserve performance.
Flexible Image Adjustment
The AH500ST supports two-dimensional keystone correction, with vertical and horizontal adjustment of up to ±30 degrees. These controls help correct image geometry when the projector cannot be positioned perfectly perpendicular to the screen.
For the best image quality, position the projector as squarely as possible in relation to the projection surface before applying digital correction. Extensive geometric adjustment may affect the usable image area.
Connectivity and Control
The projector includes two HDMI 2.0a inputs with HDCP 2.2 support for compatible computers, golf simulation systems, media players, and other video sources. Additional interfaces include Ethernet, RS-232 control, USB Type-A, a Mini USB Type-B service connection, and a 3.5mm audio output.
The Ethernet and RS-232 interfaces support integration with compatible control systems. An optional BenQ wireless USB dongle can provide wireless projection functionality where supported; the dongle is not a standard built-in wireless networking feature.
Audio Features
An integrated 10W mono speaker provides basic audio playback without requiring a separate sound system. The 3.5mm audio output can be used with compatible external audio equipment for a more suitable sound setup in a golf simulator room or entertainment space.
Key Features
- 4000 ANSI lumens and native Full HD 1920 × 1080 resolution.
- Ultra-short 0.499:1 throw ratio for compact golf simulator installations.
- Dedicated Golf Mode for golf-course colour presentation.
- Laser light source rated for up to 20,000 hours in Normal mode or 38,000 hours in ECO mode.
- Two HDMI 2.0a inputs, Ethernet, RS-232, and ±30-degree horizontal and vertical keystone correction.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BenQ |
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| Part Number / MPN | AH500ST |
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| Product Type | Short-Throw ah500st |
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| Primary Application | Indoor Golf Simulation |
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| Projection System | Single-chip DLP |
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| Native Resolution | 1920 × 1080 (Full HD) |
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| Supported Input Resolution | VGA 640 × 480 through 4K UHD 3840 × 2160 |
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| Brightness | 4000 ANSI lumens |
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| Contrast Ratio | 3,000,000:1 (FOFO, manufacturer specification) |
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| Display Colour | 30-bit processing, up to 1.07 billion colours |
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| Light Source | Laser |
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| Light Source Life | Up to 20,000 hours Normal; up to 38,000 hours ECO |
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| Native Aspect Ratio | 16:9 |
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| Supported Screen Formats | 16:9, 16:10, 4:3, 1:1 |
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| Throw Ratio | 0.499:1 |
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| Zoom | Fixed optical configuration |
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| Lens | F/2.8, f = 7.46 mm |
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| Projection Offset | 112% full-height offset |
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| Focus | Quick Focus function |
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| Keystone Correction | 2D; vertical ±30°, horizontal ±30° |
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| Rec. 709 Colour Coverage | 83% |
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| Picture Modes | 3D, Cinema, Game, Golf, HDR10, HLG, sRGB, User 1, User 2 |
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| Input Lag | 16.7 ms at 1080p/120Hz; 33.4 ms at 1080p/60Hz without geometric correction |
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| Vertical Scan Rate | 23–120Hz |
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| HDMI Inputs | 2 × HDMI 2.0a with HDCP 2.2 |
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| Network Interface | 1 × RJ-45 Ethernet |
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| USB Interfaces | USB Type-A; Mini USB Type-B service connection |
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| Serial Control | 1 × RS-232 DB-9 |
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| Audio Output | 1 × 3.5mm mini-jack |
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| Built-In Speaker | 1 × 10W mono |
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| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 40°C at sea level |
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| Power Supply | AC 100–240V, 50/60Hz |
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| Typical Power Consumption | 250W at 110V, according to the referenced specification |
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| Maximum Power Consumption | 300W |
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| Standby Power Consumption | Less than 0.5W |
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| Noise Level | 35 dB Normal / 32 dB ECO |
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| Dimensions (W × H × D) | 320 × 130.6 × 255 mm |
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| Weight | 5.1 kg |
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Compatibility
The BenQ AH500ST is compatible with supported HDMI video sources, including computers, golf simulation systems, media players, and other devices capable of outputting an accepted video signal. Although it accepts input resolutions up to 4K UHD, the displayed image is rendered at its native 1080p resolution.
For golf simulation, confirm that the projector's throw distance, projected image dimensions, mounting position, and aspect ratio match the simulator enclosure and impact screen. Verify the graphics output and software requirements of your chosen golf simulation system before installation.
Applications
- Home golf simulator rooms.
- Indoor golf training and practice facilities.
- Golf simulation installations with limited projector-to-screen distance.
- Full HD movie and sports viewing.
- Gaming and multimedia projection using compatible sources.
- Business or recreational projection in suitable indoor environments.
DC Supplies Product Note
Before ordering, calculate the projector-to-screen distance using the 0.499:1 throw ratio and confirm the required image width. The AH500ST uses a fixed optical configuration, so it is important to verify the planned screen size and mounting position before installation. If wireless projection is required, check compatibility with BenQ's optional EZC-5201BS wireless USB dongle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the BenQ AH500ST a 4K projector?
No. Its native resolution is Full HD 1920 × 1080. It can accept supported input signals up to 4K UHD, but the image is displayed at the projector's native resolution.
What makes the AH500ST suitable for golf simulators?
Its 0.499:1 short-throw ratio, 4000 ANSI-lumen brightness, dedicated Golf Mode, and screen-format options support installation in golf simulator environments with limited space.
How long does the laser light source last?
BenQ specifies up to 20,000 hours in Normal mode and up to 38,000 hours in ECO mode. Actual life varies with operating conditions and settings.
Does the projector support 120Hz input?
BenQ specifies support for 1080p at 120Hz, with an input lag of 16.7 ms without geometric correction. Supported performance depends on the input source and operating mode.
Does the AH500ST have built-in Wi-Fi?
The projector has Ethernet connectivity but does not list built-in Wi-Fi as a standard feature. BenQ identifies the EZC-5201BS wireless USB dongle as an optional accessory for supported wireless projection.
Can the projector be mounted on the ceiling or floor?
BenQ describes the AH500ST as suitable for ceiling and floor mounting. The mounting position should be planned around the throw ratio, projection offset, screen dimensions, and the manufacturer's installation instructions.
