Mitsubishi WD380U-EST Ultra Short Throw WXGA DLP Projector Review
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April 2012 - Mike Rollet
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Mitsubishi WD380U-EST Projector Overview
The Mitsubishi WD380U-EST is an ultra short throw WXGA (1280x800) DLP projector that is aimed directly at the teacher or presenter that needs to interact with the projected image without stepping in front of the projector. 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 “ultra” short throw designation comes from its ability to project an 80” diagonal image from only 25” (front of projector to screen). Usually, such a short throw is achieved by reflecting the image off a mirror, but the WD380U-EST uses a similar fixed lens setup as the recently reviewed Optoma ZX210ST, consisting of a fixed normal lens projecting through a second, convex lens. On the WD380U-EST, the convex lens is larger and the upward display angle is greater, thus allowing for bigger images at shorter distances. As is the case with fixed lens, short throw projectors, the WD380U-EST has no zooming ability outside of digital zooming. This requires the user to spend a little more time setting up the projector at the correct distance for the screen size desired, as well as at the proper height.
The WD380U-EST has extensive network capabilities. You can both present and control the projector from a networked (wired or wireless) computer. It also has the ability to do presentations directly from a USB thumb drive. In addition, the WD380U-EST is also 3-D ready, incorporating Texas Instruments' DLP link technology. The Mitsubishi WD380U-EST has a specified output of 2800 lumens with a 3000:1 contrast ratio. The WD380U-EST is also reasonably portable, at only 9 pounds, giving it the flexibility to be easily moved from one location to another.
For those who do not require widescreen presentation, Mitsubishi offers the XD360U-EST, which differs from the WD380U-EST in that it is XGA (1024x768) resolution and is rated at 2500 lumens.
Mitsubishi WD380U-EST Projector Highlights
- Lightweight – 9 lbs.
- Good Brightness and Contrast – 2800 lumens and 3000:1 contrast ratio
- PC-Free presentation capability from a USB drive
- 3-D Ready – Incorporates DLP Link technology
- Full (RGBCMY) color management
- Network monitoring, control and presentation
- Microphone input and built-in 10W speaker
Specs for the Mitsubishi WD380U-EST
Click here for full specifications: Mitsubishi WD380U-EST
MSRP: $1299, Street Price $1249
Technology: DLP
Native Resolution: WXGA (1280x800)
Brightness: 2800 lumens
Contrast: 3000:1
Zoom Lens ratio: Fixed
Lens shift: None
Lamp life: Up to 3000 hours (Normal mode), 6000 hours (Eco mode)
Dimensions: (With lens) 12.8”W x 4.4”H x 10.2”D
Weight: 9 lbs.
Warranty: 3 years Parts and Labor on projector, One year or 500 hours on lamp
Mitsubishi WD380U-EST Projector Special Features
3D Ready – incorporates DLP Link 3D technology, when used with compatible 3D field sequential content and active shutter 3D glasses (not included) that support the DLP Link system.
PC-Free Presentation – The WD380U-EST can project slideshows or PowerPoint presentations (when converted to PtG files with included software), directly from a USB thumb drive.
Full Color Management - for individual adjustment of each of the projector’s primary (red, green and blue) and secondary (cyan, magenta and yellow) colors. This allows the user to adjust the saturation, hue and brightness of each color to their tastes.
Crestron RoomView Network Service – The WD380U-EST supports Crestron’s RoomView management system. This allows for centralized access and control over a single projector or multiple projectors simultaneously, as well as notifications which can be distributed to each projector.