Epson Expands LCD Classroom Projector Lineup
[Updated Feb. 2, 2010 at 9:03 a.m. PST with corrected XGA mode projection specification. --David Nagel]
Epson has introduced six new projectors designed for schools, including a new short-throw model that can be mounted as close as 2.8 inches from the projection surface. The new lineup debuted Wednesday at the FETC 2010 conference, underway this week in Orlando, FL.
he new models include the BrightLink 450Wi, a sort-throw LCD projector designed for a wide range of surfaces to help transform existing boards into interactive whiteboards. The 450Wi offers WXGA resolution (1,280 x 800, 16:10 aspect ratio) and is designed for applications requiring ultra-short throw distances, down to 2.8 inches. It can project images up to 96 inches (diagonal) in WXGA mode or 85 inches in XGA (1,024 x 768) mode. (At a distance of 18 inches from the surface, the unit can project a 60-inch image.)
Other features include:
- Brightness of 2,500 lumens;
- 3,500 hours of lamp life in economy mode;
- Closed captioning support;
- Message broadcasting support;
- Network monitoring and control via RJ-45;
- Mic input with built-in 10 watt speaker for voice amplification; and
- SB plug and play connectivity.
The BrightLink 450Wi is expected to be available this spring. Pricing has not been announced, but Epson said the new model will cost less than $2,000.
Epson also debuted five new LCD projectors in its PowerLite line of classroom projectors, all priced at less than $1,000.
The PowerLite 83V+ is an XGA model offering a brightness of 2,200 lumens and a lamp life of up to 4,000 hours in economy mode. Other features include:
- 1.2x optical zoom;
- ±30 degree automatic vertical keystone correction;
- Internal 10-watt speaker;
- Built-in closed captioning;
- Fast power-up and shutdown (five seconds to power up), with "direct on/off";
- A/V mute slide;
- Dual VGA inputs; and
- RS-232 control.
The PowerLite 83V+ will be available in February for an estimated street price of $649.
The four other new PowerLite models include the 84+, 85+, 825+, and 826W+. The PowerLite 84+ ($799) and 85+ ($899) offer an XGA resolution and a brightness of 2,600 lumens. The PowerLite 825+ ($999) is also an XGA model and offers a brightness of 3,000 lumens. The PowerLite 826W+ is a WXGA-resolution projector offering a brightness of 2,500 lumens.
Other features common to these four models include:
- 1.6x optical zoom;
- ±30 degree automatic vertical keystone correction;
- Network monitoring and control via RJ-45;
- Microphone input and integrated 10-watt speaker;
- Lamp life of 6,000 hours in economy mode; and
- Built-in closed captioning decoder.
The PowerLite 84+ is expected to ship in February; the PowerLite 85+ and 825+ are expected to be available in March; and, according to Epson, the PowerLite 826W+ is expected in late spring. Further information can be found here.