Sanyo Introduced New Interactive Projector, PLC-WL2503 – Press Release


February 3rd, 2011 admin

Sanyo PLC-WL2503 projector

Comments by Projector Reviews staff:

Presenters and instructors can now present/lecture while writing/annotating on the image being projected on a screen or even a wall without the use of a separate whiteboard.  Sanyo enters this market with the release of the PLC-WL2503.   With an ultra short-throw lens, the PLC-WL2503 allows for greater placement flexibility as well.   And 2500 lumens allows for a fair amount of light in the room too.   Read on for more information from Sanyo!

Press Release

SANYO INTRODUCES INTERACTIVE WXGA SHORT-THROW PROJECTOR
THAT ENABLES INTERACTIVITY WITH ANY PROJECTION SURFACE

- Interactive projector enables writing and operation with image projected on any surface, including screens, standard whiteboards and wall surfaces

- Enables instructors and presenters to annotate presentations on the fly while engaging students or an audience

- Ultra short-throw lens can create projected images from 60 to 110 inches, with an 80-inch image requiring only 34-inch throw distance

- Projector produces high brightness level with 2,500 lumens and 500:1 contrast ratio

- Hybrid filter and long-life lamp minimize maintenance time and costs

CHATSWORTH, CA.—January 18, 2011 – SANYO North America Corporation, a subsidiary of SANYO Electric Co., Ltd., one of the world’s largest manufacturers of LCD and DLP projectors, announced today the introduction of a wide XGA ultra short-throw 3 LCD interactive projector geared for the educational and corporate presentation markets that provides full functionality regardless of the surface on which the image is projected. Unlike existing interactive solutions that require whiteboards or other surfaces with built-in sensors, the PLC-WL2503 operates when any screen or wall surface is used to display the projected image. 2500 lumens brightness and a 500:1 contrast ratio ensure picture quality and clarity, and an ultra-short throw lens creates images from 60 to 110 inches at a distance of no more than 47 inches from the screen. Available in January 2011, the PLC-WL2503 has an MSRP of $1695.99.

Conventional interactive projector systems require the use of an interactive whiteboard connected to the PC. SANYO’s interactive system eliminates this need by providing two interface devices (a pen and a pointer), each containing an infrared (IR) transmitter. When the tip of either device is pressed against the screen or wall surface, it generates an IR signal that is detected by a camera module located on the front surface of the projector. This signal allows the system to determine the relative location of the tip on the projected image, and this information is transmitted to the PC through a USB connection for display on screen. Calibration for setup is considerably simpler than competing Read the rest of this entry »

Vivitek Launches New D512-3D, D536-3D, D538-3D Projectors – Press Release


February 1st, 2011 admin

Vivitek D512-3D, D536-3D, D538-3D projectors

What appears to be most significant about these new Vivitek projector models is that they claim to be able to convert 2D movies to 3D automatically, without a separate conversion box!  We wonder if they really work that easily.  We will want to review one of these units as soon as possible to test them.

P R E S S   R E L E A S E

Vivitek Launches 3D Conversion Technology with D5 Series

The D512-3D, D536-3D and D538-3D Feature Technology that Converts 2D Content into 3D Images Without an External Box LAS VEGAS, Jan 06, 2011 (BUSINESS WIRE) — Vivitek Corporation, a leading manufacturer of innovative visual presentation products, introduces 2D to 3D conversion technology with three new digital projectors, the D512-3D, D536-3D and the D538-3D. The new projectors take existing 2D content and convert images into 3D pictures, without the use of an external conversion box.

The first projectors to utilize this built-in conversion technology, the newest of Vivitek’s D5 series can take standard DVD and BluRay player content (via HDMI) and switch it from 2D to 3D (via DLP(R) Link(TM) from Texas Instruments).

The three projectors can also display 3D content from 720p/1080i at 50/60Hz and 1080p at 24Hz from 3D BluRay players or other 3D sources, such as cable or satellite boxes.

The D512-3D, D536-3D and D538-3D feature DLP and BrilliantColor(TM) technologies for bright, digital images. Add in high-efficiency lamps that last up to 4,000 hours (in economy mode), and the three projectors are an amazing lightweight, presentation solution.

“This latest technology represents a breakthrough for both the consumer and Vivitek,” said Christopher Yang, senior product manager at Vivitek. “We’ve packed a lot of features and technologies into the D512-3D, D536-3D and D538-3D projectors, all within a compact design. Now, with the 2D to 3D built-in conversion, consumers are able to enjoy 3D Read the rest of this entry »

Epson Introduces D6150, D6155W and D6250 Projectors – Press Release


January 20th, 2011 admin

Epson PowerLite D6150/D6155W/D6250 projectors

Comments by Projector Reviews staff:

Epson has added 3 new high performance projectors, the D6000 series, targeted for the higher education market.  They offer high brightness, low maintenance and low cost of ownership (with a 5000 hour lamp).  These new models will be available in April and should have an estimated street price of only $1649 (D6150), $1799 (D6155W) and $1799 (D6250), making them a great option  for the classroom/lecture hall.

Press Release

Epson Introduces High Performance PowerLite D6000 Series Projectors for Higher Education

Epson PowerLite D6150, D6155W, and D6250 Deliver High Brightness,

Connectivity, Advanced Networking, and Dust Resistant Design

LONG BEACH, Calif. – Jan. 18, 2011 – Epson, the number-one selling projector brand worldwide1, today introduced the new Epson PowerLite® D6000 series line of robust projectors for higher education. The PowerLite D6150, D6155W and D6250 offer high brightness and exceptional picture quality with a dust resistant design, a 10,000 hour2 electrostatic filter and lamp life of 5,000 hours3 for a low total cost of ownership. These projectors also deliver cutting-edge connectivity, advanced networking functions, and easy setup features.

“Epson remains committed to educators and students by creating projectors that not only deliver cutting-edge technology and network offerings, but are also built to perform and last,” said Sean Gunduz, product manager, Epson America. “The new PowerLite D6000 series projectors feature our most innovative dust resistant design, including a sealed body preventing air from entering the unit except through the filter, and exhaust vent shutters that help prevent dust and bugs from entering when the unit is off.”

The Epson PowerLite D6150 delivers 3,500 lumens of color and white light output4 with XGA resolution. The PowerLite D6155W offers 3,500 lumens of color and white light output with WXGA resolution for widescreen content. And the PowerLite D6250 features 4,000 lumens of color and white light output with XGA resolution. Read the rest of this entry »

Epson Adds New PowerLite 1835 Projector to Line – Press Release


January 20th, 2011 admin

Epson PowerLite 1835 projector

Comments by Projector Reviews staff:

Available in March, the new PowerLite 1835 should sell for only $1199Brightness and versatility should make it a great option for the boardroom and classroom.  It offers 1.6 zoom, allowing a variety of set up options in any space.

Press Release

LONG BEACH, Calif. – Jan. 18, 2011 – Epson, the number-one selling projector brand worldwide1, today introduced the convenient and affordable PowerLite® 1835 projector for corporations and higher education. Offering setup flexibility, future proof connectivity, advanced networking, 3,500 lumens of color and white light output2, and XGA resolution, the PowerLite 1835 is available for $1,199*.

“The PowerLite 1835 meets the installation challenges of the corporate and education markets by delivering a host of easy setup features that allow installation almost anywhere in any room,” said Sean Gunduz, product manager, Epson America. “In addition, its connectivity provides  compatibility with current and future IT investments, while its advanced networking makes it easy to monitor and control from anywhere in the world.”

Easy Setup and Connectivity Features

The Epson PowerLite 1835 delivers setup, connectivity and networking features for any boardroom or classroom, including:

-       Image Adjustment: Horizontal keystone squares the image even if the projector is placed off-center from the screen; Quick Corner® allows any four corners of an image to be adjusted independently for a perfectly rectangular picture

-       Positioning Flexibility: 1.6x optical zoom allows for larger images from shorter throw distances and eliminates dead spaces while 16-degree tilt allows for images to be projected higher on the wall for better viewing anywhere in the room

-       Advanced Connectivity: HDMI delivers high-quality digital video and audio; USB Plug ‘n Play transfers image, sound and mouse control via a single cable; PC-free Presentation offers PC-less access to USB memory devices; and optional wireless connection allows for peer-to-peer presentations as well as advanced wireless networking

-       Networking Capabilities: Projector can be connected to a network via RJ45 or optional wireless LAN module and run EasyMP® software for remote monitoring and controlling of the projector, as well as message broadcasting of up to 1,024 networked Epson projectors and remote presentations on up to four remote projectors

-       Crestron RoomView Enabled: Ready to work with RoomView software for remote monitor and control without the need for an A/V control box Read the rest of this entry »

Mitsubishi Introduces New HC9000D Home Theater Projector – Press Release


January 18th, 2011 admin

Mitsubishi HC9000D projector

Comments by Projector Reviews staff:

Mitsubishi is promoting the 3D capabilities of its new HC9000D, but considers the HC9000D to be their flagship consumer 2D home theater projector.  Also of note is that it is Mitsubishi’s first LCos projector.  For those into the details, they are using Sony’s SXRD (LCos) panels. We’ve already done an extensive blog on this projector: http://www.projectorreviews.com/blog/2011/01/12/mitsubishi-hc9000d-3d-projector-first-look-from-ces-2011/#more-1020

And of course, it will be reviewed once it starts shipping.

P R E S S   R E L E A S E

New Diamond 3D High-Definition Home Theater Projector from Mitsubishi Electric Debuts at CES 2011

IRVINE, Calif., January 6, 2011 – Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America’s Presentation Products Division continues its leadership in bringing the 3D experience to home theaters by introducing its newest Diamond HC9000D 1080p full HD home theater projector at the CES Show in Las Vegas, January 6-9, 2011, in Booth #9021.

“We’ve heard that this is ‘the year of 3D,’” said Wayne Kozuki, product manager, Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America’s Presentation Products Division. “But Mitsubishi has been selling 3D-ready TVs since 2007, so it’s the home entertainment industry that is finally catching up to us.”

Mitsubishi’s new Diamond 3D projector is packed with features that create crisp, vivid, engaging 3D images that can display over 100-inch screens, creating a true theater experience. Powered by an SXRD™ cutting-edge reflective liquid-crystal optical engine, Mitsubishi adds its own algorithms and processing technologies to create high-brightness, high-contrast (up to 150,000:1 full on/full off) images that are smooth, dazzling and true to the original content.

A key element in projector performance is its lens, and Mitsubishi has incorporated extra-low dispersion glass into its six-piece, 17-cluster structure for higher functionality that minimizes chromatic aberration. The result is colors and Read the rest of this entry »

Viewsonic Introduces 2 New Models, PLED-W200 and Pro 8200 – Press Release


January 18th, 2011 admin

Viewsonic PLED-W200 projector

Viewsonic Pro8200 projector

Comments by Projector Reviews staff:

ViewSonic introduced several new entertainment solutions at CES.  Of note in the projector arena is a pico projector, the PLED-W200.  It offers WXGA resolution and 200 lumens with LED light technology and an expected price of $499.  The Pro8200 HD home theater projector is the replacement for the Pro8100, which we reviewed here, http://www.projectorreviews.com/viewsonic/pro8100/index.php.  It offers full 1080p resolution and 2000 lumens and an estimated price of $999.  The Pro8200 is in house for review and check out or blog about it here: http://www.projectorreviews.com/blog/2011/01/05/viewsonic-pro8200-a-first-look-projector-review/

P R E S S   R E L E A S E

ViewSonic Introduces Projection Innovations at CES

ViewSonic Launches Entertainment Solutions, Including a 3D HD Converter Box, Powerful Pico and a Sub $1,000 Full HD Home Theater ProjectorLAS VEGAS, NV–(Marketwire – January 6, 2011) – ViewSonic Corp. (South Hall 30873), a leading global provider of computing, consumer electronics and communications solutions, is expanding its projection offerings today with several new entertainment solutions ranging from a 3D HD video converter box to one of the world’s most powerful pocket-sized projectors.

“ViewSonic offers unsurpassed front of screen experience,” said Jeff Volpe, vice president and general manager for ViewSonic Americas. “Today’s new projection solutions, fueled by last year’s success in the home theater space with the launch of our ViewSonic Pro8100 projector, are the latest evolution in home entertainment. From our powerful picos to our 3D HD video processor box and foldable, rechargeable 3D glasses, our projection products and accessories address consumers’ entertainment and media needs at home and on the go.”

ViewSonic VP3D1 3D Video Box for HD
A cost-effective home entertainment solution, ViewSonic’s VP3D1 3D video processor box enables the viewing of Blu-ray™ and other Full HD 1080p 2D and 3D content on any 3D Ready DLP® projector with an HDMI connection(1). From HD movies to games, consumers can enjoy Full HD content on their current compatible projector. The HDMI 1.4A output and dual HDMI input connectors ensure connectivity with Blu-ray 3D™ players, PlayStation® 3D games and others. With the VP3D1, a 1080p video signal is automatically converted for a seamless 3D projection experience. The VP3D1 will be available in early February for an ESP of $299.

ViewSonic PGD-250 DLP Link 3D Glasses
Perfect for home theater viewing, ViewSonic’s PGD-250 Active Stereographic 3D shutter glasses bring reality one step closer. Compatible with any DLP 3D Ready projector solution, these glasses bring 3D content to life in a lightweight, foldable frame design that is comfortable to wear — created with consumers’ comfort in mind. For added user convenience, the PGD-250 glasses also feature a rechargeable battery — simply plug the included USB cable into a compatible device. ViewSonic’s PGD-250 3D glasses will be available in mid-February for an ESP of $99.

ViewSonic PLED-W200 Pico Projector
The PLED-W200 pocket-sized projector is ideal for slipping in a laptop bag or purse for taking presentations and entertainment on the go. At 200 lumens, with a 2000:1 contrast ratio and display resolution of 1200×800 WXGA, the PLED-W200 packs the world’s highest lumen and resolution counts into a CD player-sized device. Weighing less than a Read the rest of this entry »

Vivitek Introduces New Pico Projector, Qumi – Press Release


January 18th, 2011 admin

Vivitek Qumi Pico Projector

Comments by Projector Reviews staff:

Vivitek has now joined the Pico projector club in a big way with its introduction of the Qumi LED projector.  What makes it special is that it seems to be the first 3D ready (uses the same DLP Link technology as most larger DLP 3D projectors) Pico/pocket projector!  Weighing in at 1.6 lbs., its LED-based light source offers up to 300 lumens (less of course, with 3D content), and 30,000+ hours doing what you bought it for; be that game playing, presenting and/or data/video sharing from all your portable devices.  And the estimated price of $499 makes it pretty affordable too, especially considering the competition so far!

P R E S S   R E L E A S E

Vivitek Enters Pico Projector Category with LED-Based Pocket Projector

Vivitek Introduces Bright, Lightweight, LED-Based Projector with 3D Ready Capabilities LAS VEGAS–(EON: Enhanced Online News)–Vivitek Corporation, a leading manufacturer of innovative visual presentation products, enters the Pico projector category with the Qumi, the company’s new line of LED-based pocket projectors. To maximize the company’s strength in LED-based projectors, the new Qumi (pronounced Q-me) projectors enhance Vivitek’s family of projection devices for a wide range of applications.

Weighing in at only 1.6 pounds, the Qumi is the first pocket projector to be 3D-ready via Texas Instruments’ DLP® Link™ technology. The Qumi’s touch sensitive button controls and sleek design is ready to be used with a variety of devices, including, but not limited to digital cameras, laptops, smart phones and tablets. Vivitek’s Qumi projector is versatile and portable enough for both work and play, making it ideal for sharing digital content. Read the rest of this entry »

Epson Introduces New PowerLite 92, 93, 95 and 96W Projectors – Press Release


January 12th, 2011 admin

Epson PowerLite 92/93/95/96W

Comments by Projector Reviews staff:

With the introduction of 4 new projector models specifically targeting the educational market, Epson continues to dominate!  These new models are brighter than the ones they replace and they offer better sound, plus HDMI connectivity.  MSRPs range from $649 to $899 and with longer lamp life as well, they are a great value for budget conscious buyers (and what school doesn’t have those?)

Press Release

LONG BEACH, Calif. – Jan. 10, 2011 – Epson, the number-one selling projector brand worldwide1, today announced four new budget-friendly projectors designed for classroom use – the PowerLite 92, 93, 95, and 96W. Replacing the current PowerLite 83V+, 83+, 84+, 85+ and 826W+, these projectors offer a more robust built-in speaker, increased brightness and HDMI digital connectivity to deliver high-quality audio and video with one cable.

“As multimedia content becomes a standard element of classrooms, Epson continues to develop products that deliver high-quality images and sound to enhance students’ learning experiences,” said Sara Kim, product manager, Epson America. “This series of projectors brings an ideal blend of high performance features and future-ready connectivity to the classroom at a price point that won’t hurt the bottom line.” Read the rest of this entry »

AAXA Announces L1 v2 Laser Pico Projector – Press Release


January 10th, 2011 admin

Aaxa L1 v2

Comments by Projector Reviews staff:

The L1 v2 is an updated version of AAXA’s L1.  Offering advances in its laser light technology, this new version promises a better, sharper picture than its predecessor with less visible pixels.  Laser pico projectors have been a mixed bag so far, with some advantages and some disadvantages.  We’re hopeful that this is a next generation of laser engine, with less sparkle.  If this projector is basically the same, but with a new light engine, we’ll take a look and see how much it improves on last year’s.

Press Release

November 24, 2010:  AAXA Technologies is pleased to announce the release of the AAXA L1 v2 Laser Pico Projector, an updated version of the L1, the world’s first laser powered pocket projector. The updated design improves the performance of L1 v2 by increasing the thermal efficiency of the PCOS laser light engine. The unique three-color laser light source enables the L1 v2 to produce images with amazing color saturation that are always in focus. Designed for mobile professionals and entertainment, the AAXA L1 v2 pocket projector combines a revolutionary laser light source, proprietary despeckling technology, and an LCoS imager to achieve a 20 lumen output at 800×600 resolution without the pixilation problems found in some laser projectors.

The flexibility offered by the L1 v2 laser light source opens up a new world of possibilities in projection applications. The focus-free operation allows for rapid changes in projection size, simultaneous far and near surface projection, angled projection, and projection on curved and other non-flat surfaces. Its ultra-efficient optical engine enables the L1 v2 to produce rich images even in less-than-dark environments – and color-rich images up to 50″ in dark environments. Combined with onboard 1.5 hour battery, the L1 v2 operates as a true hand-held laser projector without the need for any cables or external power source. Read the rest of this entry »

Luminus Announces New Aiptek Pocket Cinema V50 Pico Projector – Press Release


January 10th, 2011 admin

Aiptek Pocket Cinema V50

Comments by Projector Reviews staff:

The new Aiptek PocketCinema V50 offers a change to 16:9, WVGA (848×480) from 4:3, VGA in last year’s model.  More importantly it offers up to 50 lumens of light output on AC, and 20 on battery.  The battery is supposed to last 2 hours, we presume, at the 20 lumen level.  The Aiptek V50 has a selling price of under $350. We wonder if there’s an external battery pack that can maintain the 50 lumens brightness.

Luminus Devices’ Big-Chip LEDs Power New Aiptek PocketCinema V50 Projector

LAS VEGAS (January 07, 2011) – Luminus Devices, Inc., developer and manufacturer of high light output, “big-chip” LEDs, today announced that it is powering Aiptek’s new PocketCinema V50 Projector, one of the world’s smallest projectors enabling instant projection anywhere for business presentations, photo sharing with family and friends and gaming.

The PocketCinema V50 Projector combines DLP Optical Technology with Luminus’ SBT-16 LED pico-projection chipset for sharp and rich image quality. The SBT-16 chipset is designed specifically for hand-held projectors that use micro-displays ranging from “0.2 to 0.45″ with individual red, green and blue LEDs.

The V50′s 848 x 480 (WVGA) resolution enables image projection up to 85 inches from iPods, digital cameras, camcorders, mobile phones, PCs or notebooks and gaming consoles. The built-in reader is compatible with an extensive list of business and multimedia file formats, including 720p high-definition video, allowing immediate projection of presentations or movies without having to convert files. In addition, the V50 offers a battery life of up to 2 hours. Read the rest of this entry »