Optoma Updates Laser Projector Series with New Ultra-Short-Throw Models

Optoma ZU500UST

Optoma ZU500UST

Optoma has added new models to its laser and lamp projector series, all designed for education.

In the laser series, two new ultra-short-throw projectors are wireless, have 5,000 lumens of brightness and produce images up to 120-inches in size. The new Optoma ZH500UST, which is priced at $3,199, features 1920x1080 resolution. The ZU500UST, priced at $3,299, has 1920x1200 resolution.

Besides having ports for HDMI and VGA connections, the devices are equipped with USB image viewers and office document readers, to allow users to play audio, images and other files without a PC. They also include digital signage mode support and "four-corner adjustment," which allows for quick image adjustment from any corner of the image in situations where the projection surface is angled or uneven. Connected to the campus network, audiovisual administrators can control the projector via telnet and Crestron in managed installations.

The company estimated the light source life at up to 30,000 hours in "eco-mode."

In Optoma's lamp series, the W412 ($619) features 1280x800 WXGA resolution and 4,400 lumens of brightness. It can support 4K UHD HDR input sources. The X412 model ($519) delivers 1024x768 XGA resolution and 4,200 lumens and handles HDMI and VGA inputs. Both lamp projectors feature flexible zoom, keystone correction and RS-232 control. They also have a lamp life estimated at 15,000 hours and 10-watt speakers.

For more information, go to the Optoma site.

About the Author

Dian Schaffhauser is a former senior contributing editor for 1105 Media's education publications THE Journal, Campus Technology and Spaces4Learning.

Featured

  • stylized illustration of a desktop, laptop, tablet, and smartphone all displaying an orange AI icon

    Survey: AI Shifting from Cloud to PCs

    A recent Intel-commissioned report identifies a significant shift in AI adoption, moving away from the cloud and closer to the user. Businesses are increasingly turning to the specialized hardware of AI PCs, the survey found, recognizing their potential not just for productivity gains, but for revolutionizing IT efficiency, fortifying data security, and delivering a compelling return on investment by bringing AI capabilities directly to the edge.

  • laptop with digital productivity and calendar symbols

    September 2025 Tech Tactics in Education Conference Agenda Announced

    Registration is free for this fully virtual Sept. 25 event, focused on "Overcoming Roadblocks to Innovation" in K-12 and higher education.

  • hand holding globe and environmental icons in front of a green background

    CoSN, SETDA, UDT Release Guidelines for Environmentally Responsible Technology Purchasing

    CoSN and SETDA, in partnership with IT and telecommunications solution provider UDT, recently released a set of Sustainability Procurement Guidelines designed to help K-12 school and district leaders, procurement officers, and technology directors make purchasing decisions that are both environmentally responsible and operationally effective.

  • tutor and student working together at a laptop

    You've Paid for Tutoring. Here's How to Make Sure It Works.

    As districts and states nationwide invest in tutoring, it remains one of the best tools in our educational toolkit, yielding positive impacts on student learning at scale. But to maximize return on investment, both financially and academically, we must focus on improving implementation.