Viewsonic PJD6383S Short Throw DLP Multimedia Projector Review

See this projector in our annual Classroom Projector Report, sponsored by:

February 2013 - Mike Rollet

C o n t e n t s Viewsonic PJD6383S Overview Highlights Specifications Special Features Physical Tour Image Quality Performance Warranty Summary

Viewsonic PJD6383S Projector Overview

The Viewsonic PJD6383S projector is a short throw XGA (1024 X 768) DLP projector that is aimed squarely at the classroom or conference room.  Its short throw (the PJD6383S is able to project an 80” diagonal image from less than 3 feet - front of projector to screen) makes it perfect for the presenter who needs to point out items on the screen, without disturbing the image.   Similar to other short throw projectors we’ve reviewed, the PJD6383S uses a fixed normal lens projecting through a second, convex lens.  As a result of using a fixed lens, there is no zooming (only digital zooming on the image), requiring the projector to be placed at the proper distance for the screen size desired, as well as at the proper height.  The PJD6383S also features LAN control and monitoring, as well as a  built-in 10 watt speaker, reducing the need for external speakers in many cases.  The PJD6383S is also 3-D ready, incorporating Texas Instruments' DLP link technology. 

The PJD6383S is one of a family of similar projectors.  These include the PJD5353 and PJD6353s, which are similar to the 6383s, but with a lower powered lamp (2500 lumen rating), lower contrast ratio and in the case of the PJD 5353, less color depth.  The PJD6683WS features WXGA resolution, but is otherwise identical to the PJD6383S.

The PJD6383S’s light weight (6.6 lbs.) and compact size makes it a good choice for mounting on a movable cart, where one could move from room to room.   As we’ll see in the review to follow, the Viewsonic PJD6383S’s combination of high brightness, good contrast and color accuracy, great warranty and low price makes it deserve serious consideration in the K-12 education market, as well as the conference room. 

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Viewsonic PJD6383S Projector Highlights

• Lightweight – 6.6 lbs.

• Very Good Brightness – 3000 lumens

• Excellent Contrast – 15000:1

• 3-D Ready – Incorporates DLP Link technology

• Short throw allows for an 80” diagonal image from less than 3 feet

• Full (RGBCMY) color management in User modes

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Specs for the Viewsonic PJD6383S

Click here for full specifications: Viewsonic PJD6383S

MSRP: $809 (street price $699)
Technology: DLP
Native Resolution: XGA (1024x768)
Brightness: 3000 lumens
Contrast: Up to 15000:1
Zoom Lens ratio: N/A (fixed lens)
Lens shift: None
Lamp life: 3500 hours (Standard mode), 5000 hours (Eco mode)
Dimensions: (Not including feet) 11.6”W x 3.3”H x 9.5”D
Weight: 6.6 lbs. 
Warranty: 3 years Parts and Labor on projector, 1 year on lamp

Viewsonic PJD6383S Projector Special Features

DynamicEco mode – When placed in this mode via a dedicated button on the remote, the projected image is dimmed, thus allowing the presenter to speak for some time without the distraction of the image.  This reduces the power consumption by up to 70%, a great energy saving feature. 

LAN Control & Monitoring with Crestron & AMX – The PJD6383S offers full support for Crestron eControl, RoomView and AMX Device Discovery.  This allows for full network-based control and monitoring of multiple projectors.  Go to www.crestron.com and www.amx.com for more information on these systems.

3D Ready – ready for use with new 3D content. Incorporating DLP Link technology, when used with compatible 3D field sequential content and active shutter 3D glasses (not included) that support the DLP Link system.  While not currently much of a feature due to lack of content, it is expected that 3D instruction will eventually be very popular in education.

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NEXT: Take a physical tour of the Viewsonic PJD6383S