Acer S5201M Interactive DLP Projector Review
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May 2012 - Mike Rollet
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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.
The S5201M includes two HDMI inputs and two VGA inputs, as well as S-video and composite video inputs. There are also audio inputs and outputs, as well as a microphone input and built-in five watt stereo speakers that are adequate for small rooms. The S5201M is also quite portable, at only 7.72 pounds, making it easy to move from one location to another in its included carrying case.
Acer S5201M Projector Highlights
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Portable – less than 8 lbs.
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Good Brightness – well over 2000 lumens
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Good contrast ratio – Up to 4500:1
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Included interactive pen and whiteboard software
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Variety of display modes and projection surface color choices
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3D capable
Specs for the Acer S5201M
Click here for full specifications: Acer S5201M
Street price: $798
Technology: DLP
Native Resolution: XGA (1024x768)
Brightness: 3000 lumens
Contrast: Up to 4500:1
Zoom Lens ratio: N/A (fixed lens at 2.6x)
Lens shift: None
Lamp life: 2500 hours in Normal mode, 4000 hours in Eco mode
Dimensions: (Not including feet) 11.4”W x 3.9”H x 10.0”D
Weight: 7.72 lbs.
Warranty: 1 year Parts and Labor on projector, 90 days on lamp
Acer S5201M Projector Special Features
SmartPen Interactive Pen - This pen allows for interactive capabilities with any projection surface. It is compatible with any computer operating system that supports a standard USB mouse. No calibration is required between the projector and the projection screen. You just connect the projector to your computer, activate the function on the projector and you're ready to go. See the “interactive Use” section of this review for more information.
Acer EcoProjection Technology – The Acer S5201M has special power management circuitry that minimizes power draw in standby mode, as well as reducing power if there is no input signal for 5 minutes.
Built-in Multimedia Player – The Acer S5201M has a built-in media player enabling it to play video, audio and photo files from a USB thumb drive.
3D Ready – The Acer S5201M is 3D ready (via DLP Link) when used with an appropriate 3D source and optional 3D glasses.
Acer Empowering Technology – By pressing the special “e” button on the remote, the presenter can easily access the following special menu:
- Acer eView Management – Allows the user to quickly select one of the 7 display modes.
- Acer eTimer Management – Allows the user to set reminders and timers for presentations.
- Acer ePower Management – Allows the user to select lamp mode, high altitude setting and auto shutdown.
- Acer e3D Management – Allows the user to enable 3D playback and settings.