NEC Debuts Mobile Projectors with Wireless iPad Support

The new M-series models include technology for transmitting images directly from an iPad.
The new M-series models include technology for transmitting images directly from an iPad.

NEC has updated its line of mobile LCD projectors for education, adding three new sub-$1,000 models and introducing a new technology that supports wireless transmission of images from an iPad.

The new models include the M271X, M311X, and M311W. All of them offer enhanced economy features and, according to NEC, run on 12 percent less energy than previous models in the line. With the launch of the new models, NEC has also introduced a new tool called Wireless Imaging Utility, which allows users to transmit images "from their iPad directly to the projector."

On the low end of the new range, the M271X offers a resolution of 1,024 x 768 (XGA), a brightness of 2,700 lumens, and a contrast ratio of 3,000:1. The M311X is also an XGA projector with a 3,000:1 contrast ratio, but it offers a brightness of 3,100 lumens. And the higher-end M311W is a WXGA-resolution projector (1,280 x 800 pixels) with a brightness of 3,100 lumens and a contrast ratio of 3,000:1.

Other features common to all three of the new models include:

  • Automatic or manual keystone correction (±30 degrees);
  • 1.7x zoom;
  • Geometric correction;
  • USB viewer;
  • DICOM simulation mode;
  • Closed captioning support;
  • Carbon savings meter;
  • Virtual remote;
  • Wall color correction and other image enhancement features;
  • Throw ratio of 1.3 to 2.2;
  • 10 watt integrated speaker;
  • Crestron Roomview Connect for management and emergency communications;
  • Integrated wired and optional wireless networking capabilities; and
  • Lamp life of up to 10,000 hours in economy mode (8,000 hours for the M311W).

AV inputs on all of the new models include HDMI, dual RGB (mini D-sub 15-pin), S-video, composite video, and stereo minijack. Outputs include RGB monitor (mini D-sub 15-pin) and variable audio jacks. Networking and control ports include wired LAN (RJ-45), RS-232, infrared, DDC/CI over RGB, USB and, optionally, wireless LAN.

All of the new models will be available in December. The M271X will retail for $729; the M311X will sell for $829; and the M311W will run $899, based on pricing currently listed on NEC's site. Additional details can be found on NEC's M-series projector portal.

About the Author

David Nagel is the former editorial director of 1105 Media's Education Group and editor-in-chief of THE Journal, STEAM Universe, and Spaces4Learning. A 30-year publishing veteran, Nagel has led or contributed to dozens of technology, art, marketing, media, and business publications.

He can be reached at [email protected]. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidrnagel/ .


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