Acer S5201M Projector Review

Acer S5201M Projector Highlights

Acer S5201M Projector Overview

The Acer S5201M projector is a XGA (1024 X 768) DLP short throw projector that offers full interactivity with its included pen and software, all at a street price of under $800.  The S5201M can deliver over 2000 lumens in its Presentation mode and also features network control capability, making it more versatile than lower powered minis in less than ideal lighting conditions.  Like all short throw projectors, the S5201M has a fixed lens.  So, the projector must be placed at the proper distance for the screen size desired.  Also, it must be placed at the proper height to avoid the use of digital keystone correction.  Fortunately, the S5201M has both front and rear height adjustment, plus very good keystone correction when needed.  True to its short throw designation, the S5201M can project up to an 80” diagonal image from one meter (3.25 feet).

The Acer S5201M's interactive pen can be used as a wireless mouse simply by pointing it at the screen from a short distance away.  When used with Acer's included NXBoard software, it also allows for drawing lines and shapes on virtually any presentation.  With the projector so close to the screen, the presenter will not interfere with the projected image, nor will he or she have to look back toward the lens of the projector.  The S5201M is also 3D capable when used with an appropriate source (as is the case with most 3D-capable multimedia projectors, it does not work with a typical home 3D Blu-ray player) and optional 3D glasses.