The Projector Blog

Monday, February 15, 2010

InFocus ScreenPlay 8602 Home Theater

On February 8, 2010, InFocus announced its newest ScreenPlay projector is now available to customers. The InFocus SP8602 Home Theater projector brings your movies to life! You'll feel like you're in a movie theater while in the comfort of your own home.

It features up to 300 inches of crisp images with bold blacks and bright colors, and a native 1080p resolution. It can be used in multipurpose rooms and can even be used with the lights on and it offers high-performance adjustable optics, a 30,000: 1 maximum contrast ratio, and video-optimized 1300 lumens. With its Texas Instruments DLP(R) DarkChip technology with BrilliantColor, it can display one billion colors with amazing accuracy. It also features Pixelworks DNX 10-bit video processing, which allows for super-smooth playback of film and video. The proprietary motion engine with 120Hz support allows for faster transition between frames and fast color refresh.

"The sleek design, simple user interface and plethora of features makes this projector one of the best home theater models available on the market. The SP8602 recreates a true cinematic experience with astounding realism that will amaze both casual and hard-core home theater enthusiasts," Benjamin Joy, the product line director at InFocus, said in a press release.

If you're looking to upgrade from 480p or 720p projectors, the SP8602 is a great choice. Installation and projection are made easier with the automatic ceiling detection that will flip the image when necessary, centered lens with manual lens shifts that can work on images up to 300 inches, and image warping to adjust the picture and produce square crisp images on various surfaces. It also offers the latest in HD connectivity, with analog and digital connections, including two HDMI 1.3 ports.

Not only does it function well, but can also choose what color projector you want, making it an attractive accessory to your living room or home theater. Choose between matte black, glossy black, walnut or pre-primed for a custom finish. The integrated cable management system makes it so that cables are out of sight, adding to its attractiveness.

Looking for an Affordable LCD Projector Rental then call 800-736-8772 today. Ask about the newest type of projector whose appeal is "all in the mirrors" and see if a DLP Projector Rental is right for you.

Monday, February 8, 2010

The Tiny, Affordable Ray Pico Projector

The Ray liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS) pico projector from Ray Displays may not be much bigger than a deck of cards, but the tiny projector packs a lot of punch. According to PC World, the little projector displays video, photos, and media "fairly well," but it turned out to be an excellent projector for displaying text. In an iPod PowerPoint presentation test, the magazine said the projector, "displayed bright, legible text in various fonts, but dull, washed-out color hampered its graphics quality." This means the projector would probably be great for business presentations, and high school and college classrooms.

The projector has a brightness of 10 lumens. It also features a 20,000-hour LED light source, VGA resolution, a 2 hour battery life and stereo speakers. According to the review, the speakers aren't the best quality and you may want to consider purchasing a separate sound system. It's only .7 x 2.3 x 4.4 inches and weighs only five ounces with the battery. It displays a viewable 40-inch diagonal image on any light color surface, under subdued light, at a distance of five feet. In dark settings, the display is even larger. If you want to watch a movie on an Ultra Portable Projector you will find the motion is smooth, but the colors aren't quite as vibrant as they would be if you watched the movie in another capacity.

It's easy to use and set-up. It includes a power switch, focus knob, a single 2.5mm audio/video input, and power input. It also connects to several other devices, however, if you'd like to connect it to your iPhone 3GS or a fifth-generation iPod Nano, you'll need to purchase a cable that is not included with the projector. Also, it doesn't have built-in memory or a card reader, VGA port, and the battery isn't removable.

When you purchase tiny projector, it comes with a flexible mini-tripod and various video cables that allow you to connect it to your other devices, as well as a on-year warranty on the projector and battery. Best of all, the projector will only cost you about $229. While it may not be idea for all of your needs, if you present mostly text and aren't to focused on graphics and images, this inexpensive, basic pico projector may be a good investment.

Saturday, February 6, 2010

InFocus's 5 New Entry-Level Projectors

Projector maker InFocus has announced five new DLP entry-level projectors. Part of the IN2100 and IN3100 series, these are brighter than most entry-level projectors with 3,000 to 3,500 lumens. They are great for classrooms or any rooms with varying light conditions.

The In2112, In2114, and IN 2116, are part of the In2100 series. They are the first InFocus projectors to offer networking functionality for under $1,000. They come with a long-life lamp, two computer and assignable audio inputs for multiple presenters, and several security features.

The IN3114 and IN3116 are a little more expensive and include HDMI support for use with modern computers and HDTV. They also feature DisplayLink for USB Connectivity, LitePort for presentations without a computer, LiteShow II that allow multiple users to connect wirelessly via WiFi, and Wireless DisplayLink for point-to-point connectivity over Ultra-Wideband.

All five of the new projectors are "green" and offer an Eco Mode, which allows the projectors to consume less energy when in use and less than one watt in standby mode. The projectors' native resolutions range from SVGA (800 x 60) to a maximum WUXGA (1,900 x 1,200) and each of them uses InFocus BrilliantColor, as well as a filter-ree, dust-resistant design for less maintenance.

The IN2112, IN2114 and IN3114 are available now and the IN2116 and IN3116, which are widescreen models, will be available later this year. The projectors in the IN2100 series start at $599, while the projectors in the IN3100 series start at $1,499.

Monday, February 1, 2010

Elite's New Projection Screens

Maker of commercial and home-theater projector screens, Elite Screens, has announced two new products, the Raptor Modular Projection Screen and the StarBright 7 screen material with a Dream Window 3.5 inch frame. Both were on display at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, in January.

The Raptor Modular Projection Screen.

The Raptor Modular Projection Screen detaches from its furniture housing so that it may serve as an independent projection surface, making a great option for screening movies in your media room or making a large presentation in your office or boardroom. It uses Elite's CineWhite Tension material, a 1.1 gain material with full diffusion uniformity, to enance flatness. It's also black-backed to eliminate light penetration. You can purchase it in three sizes: 79, 84, and 92 inches.

If you'd rather have non-tensioned material, screens with Maxwhite 1.1 gain non-tensioned material are also available. The Raptor Modular Unit is electric and self-standing, and is housed in a wood-furniture casing with a cherry finish. The non-tensioned models come in 84 and 92 inches.

All of the units come with a "Safe-Stop" infrared sensor that stops a screen from closing wen a small object is in the way (making it little fingers-friendly). Each one can also be used with a 5-12V wirless trigger to synchronize drop and rise with the power cycle. The RF remote provides a range of wireless operation without the need for line-of-sight contact and the IR remote allows for screen operation while also using up to eight different media devices. The wireless trigger, IR/RF receivers and both remotes are included with the screens.

The RF remote provides a range of wireless operation without the necessity for line-of-sight contact. The ZR800D IR universal learning remote allows simultaneous screen operation with up to eight different media devices. Both the RF remote and a ZR800D IR universal learning remote are included.

All of the screens are currently available through retail outlets, professional AV systems integrators, and customer residential. The 84-inch screens are prices at just over $3200. They come with a two year limited warranty.

StarBright 7

StarBright 7 is a series of ultra-high gain projection material and it's available in the Dream Window 3.5-inch thick frame variety. You can get it in sizes up to 206 inches, in either a 16:10 or 4:3 ratio. It has a multi-layered, angular reflective design that absorbs ambient light and enhances black-level contrast and color reproduction. Elite says the material is seven times brighter than typical matte white projection screens.

The surface is coated wit succeeding contrast layers that eliminate was-out and regluate hot-spots. The framework is sturdy and strong, and comes with a lifetime warranty. It has a velour surface, assembles easily, and mounts easily on a horizontally adjustable wall source. Each screen comes with a two-year limited warranty and you can purchase them starting at $1089 for the 76-inch version. You can also order custom sizes.

Friday, January 29, 2010

World's First Projector with a Remote Lamp

Some of the biggest complaints about projectors include the noise the fan makes when it cools down the lamp and accessing a blown lamp that needs to be changed, but what if you could eliminate these little nuisances? Projector manufacturer Projectiondesign has created the FR12 Remote Light Source projector, which removes the lamp from the projector to a rack-mount enclosure that is up to 30m away from the projector head. Light illuminates the projector via a unique, innovative Liquid Light Guide lead.

The projector is compact, almost maintenance-free, quiet, and easy to install due the lack of ventilation or orientation worries, which makes lamp maintenance a lot easier. This will come in handy if you use a projector for 24/7 operation, in any area where access is restricted, or if the noise of the fan or heat management are big issues during operation.

Projectiondesign International Marketing and Communications Manager Anders Lokke had this to say about the projector, "At the forefront of creating some of the most exciting technologies and innovative products, Projectiondesign has made history by producing innovative projectors that are compact, bright and high-resolution. Now we are taking projection technology a step further in simplifying maintenance, eliminating noise and dissipating heat, as well as offering greater integration and installation flexibility. A typical application would be a 24/7 command and control room environment.”

Projectiondesign has always been a leader in innovative projector technology. In 2002, they introduced the world's first single-chip SXGA DLP projector; in 2006 they made the first 1090p DLP projector available; and in 2008, they released the first WUXGA resolution DLP projector, as well as the first portable and high-resolution active 3D stereoscopic projector. Last year, the company introduced the first 3-chip projector and took the plunge into LED illumination.

The FR12 will officially be introduced at Integrated Systems Europe 2010, which takes place February 2-4, 2010. At that time, more information will be available such as specs, pricing and expected availability.

Sunday, January 24, 2010

5 Reasons You Need a Personal Projector Rental

Renting a projector for business needs can be a lifesaver but did you know Personal Projector Rentals can help make life easier, as well? If you're looking to make your wedding, party, or even movie night extra special, a projector rental may be just what you need. Not only does it make planning easier, but it will leave people talking about your event for days! You can rent the projector for as long or as little as you like, for only a fraction of the price you'd pay to purchase one. Below, you'll find a few ideas about how renting a projector can help make your personal event a huge success.

1. Weddings: It's always fun to share photos from the bride and groom's earlier lives or even their lives together since they began dating. Not only does it help out-of-town and distant friends and relatives connect with the couple, but it will make all of your guests laugh and cry. Either a featured slide show during your reception with background music and editorial, or just having photos projected onto the wall all throughout your reception can give your special day a special touch.

2. Movie Night: Every family has movie night! Everyone gathered around the TV, watching new releases or old favorites, can be a great way to spend time together with family members of all ages. Renting a projector can make the night even more fun. You can blow your movie up so the picture is much larger than your television or even pop some popcorn and watch your movie outside on a warm summer evening. Invite the neighbor's over and turn your yard into a drive-in theater! The possibilities are endless.

3. Birthday Parties: Depending on the age of your birthday boy or girl, a projector rental can be tons of fun at a birthday party. If you have a room full of antsy children, watching a movie can get everyone quiet and give you some downtime. But when you have a room of 20-30 kids, gathering around the TV may not be practical. A projector rental can instantly turn your living room into a movie theater. Imagine the delight when the kids see their favorite Disney Princess or Harry Potter movie playing on a large screen. If you are planning a birthday party for an older person, particular one of those "milestone" birthdays such as 50 or even 100, showing a slideshow of that person's life can be a great way for the person to reflect on their life.

4. Family Reunions: With advances in technology and transportation, families seem to be growing further apart. If your parents live in Atlanta, your sister in Miami, your brother and his family in Los Angeles, your in-laws in Chicago, and you in New York, it's hard for everyone to see each other grow-up! It's hard for grandparents, aunts and uncles to miss out on baseball games and gymnastics recitals and you're probably so busy that you don't always have time to upload photos to be emailed. Or maybe the older members of your family don't even use email. Again, a projector rental can put a smile on everyone's face. Have everyone send their favorite family photos to be part of a slideshow for your next family reunion. Together you can laugh and tell stories about the things you all missed throughout the years.

5. Sporting Events: Super Bowl parties can be tons of fun. Good times with friends and family, cheering on your favorite team and eating your favorite snacks. Everyone is gathered around the TV, watching the big game, but unless you have a large screen, you are not reaching your full watching potential. A large display can liven up the party and make you feel like you are closer to the action. Chances are, you can't run out and buy a big screen TV but you probably can afford a projector rental. With a projector rental, you can control the size of your display and make it bigger or smaller, depending on the size of your room and number of guests. This is something to keep in mind any time you have guests over to watch a big game and want to leave a great impression.

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Turn Anything Into a Touchscreen with Light Touch

Touchscreens are all the rage in computers lately and now it looks like the technology will be coming to projectors. Light Blue Optics has announced that its new Light Touch interactive projector will turn any surface into a touchscreen. The company, which develops and supplies miniature projector systems, said its new Light Touch projector uses Holographic Laser Projection (HLP). It uses holographic algorithms to transform images into diffraction patterns which can be shown as a small micro-display. When laser light illuminates the display, the image is formed by diffraction. The technology then helps integrate infrared sensing technology, which then turns the surface into a touchscreen.

For now, the Light Touch projector will only be available to the company's OEM customers and strategic partners.

Light Blue Optics said their goal is to free content from the confines of a small screen while allowing users to interact with the projected content. It runs on Adobe Flash Lite 3.1, which will help developers make new apps for the product. It is also equipped with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity so that users may connect to the internet to run apps such as social networking, multimedia sharing and electronic point of sale. It has a memory size of 2 GB and can support cards up to 32 GB.

According to the company, today's consumer is not a passive viewer of multimedia content. They believe people want to interact and become engaged, and this product will allow them to do so. They also believe the Light Touch projector's potential extends outside consumer electronics and can serve users in retail spaces, work places, and at home.

Monday, January 18, 2010

DLP Chips for Pico Projectors by Texas Instruments

Pez dispensers. That's what Texas Instruments used to showcase its new digital light processing (DLP) chips at the Consumer Electronics Show. The DLP chips are so tiny they fit right in the little candy dispensers. The actual projectors are a little bit bigger, but still small, and are being fitted into handheld devices ranging from cameras to cellphones. Texas Instruments says they see the pico projector market being a large revenue generator for the DLP chips.

Senior Vice President and General Manager of DLP products at Texas Instruments says that while 2009 was about introduction of the concept, 2010 is going to be about broadening the category. AT&T is already making the LG eXpo, the first phone to use the projector, however, it is not integrated into the phone but instead works as a snap-on device. It allows the phone to beam videos, websites, and other images.

Not all of the projectors will be that small. The company has crated the Brightboxe, which is described by the Dallas Morning News as being "a bit smaller than a lunchbox." The $199 projector is designed to work with video game consoles.

Unfortunately, the chip doesn't have a high-definition resolution (it goes up to 854 x 480) but Novak said he doesn't see much demand for HD in pico projectors. This leaves a lot of room for improvement and competitors are taking notice. Another company, Syndiant (which was coincidentally put together by former Texas Instrument employees) are developing a different type of technology - liquid crystal on silicon - to use in place of DLP. They are concentrating on high definition resolutions. They've recently had their hand in developing a projector with a resolution of 1024 x 600. Another hope for pico projectors is that they will eventually be able to display images in 3-D.

According to analysts, by 2016, hundreds of millions of phones and other handheld devices will have built-in projectors. In addition to Syndiant and Texas Instruments, 3M, Nikon, and Microvision looking to establish their projector products as top-of-the-line technology.

Monday, January 11, 2010

Favi RIOLED-Q and RIOLED-V Pico Projectors

The market for Pico Projectors appears to still be alive as manufacturer Favi has announced two new LED-based pico projectors for release sometime between late February and early March. The two projectors being released come to us under the names of the RIOLED-Q and the RIOLED-V.

The RIOLED-Q is a more business oriented pico projector. The RIOLED-Q is very bright with an 800x600 native resolution and a 50 lumens brightness, a first in the pico projector market (along with the Optoma PK301) to boast that output. The RIOLED-Q also has 2 built-in 3W speakers and digital keystone connection. As far as connectivity goes the RIOLED-Q has 1 A/V in, 1 VGA in and 1 USB connections. It has built-in memory as well as an SD/MMC card reader. The RIOLED-Q is powered via a battery or power adapter.

The RIOLED-V, counterpart to the RIOLED-Q, is a more consumer-based pico projector. The RIOLED-V has built-in WiFi and uses Linux to run multiple web applications like Video (YouTube), News (Yahoo News), Weather, Internet Radio, Photo (Flickr), e-mail and a web browser. Also included in the RIOLED-V is a built-in calendar and alarm clock. Connectivity wise the RIOLED-V has 1 USB, 1 A/V output and 1 headphone jack. This device is also powered via battery or power adapter and is controlled by either a remote control or by buttons on the unit. Already the RIOLED-V is being described as a hybrid netbook/media player/projector that fits in your pocket.

Favi isn't done there though as they have also announced a versatile portable projector entitled the RIOHD-LED2 which is aimed primarily at educational, business or home theater usage. The RIOHD-LED2 is 7"x6"x3" and weighs around 2.5 lbs. It has a rated 400 lumens output and is pretty bright for a small, portable projector. It has an LED lamp which has an expected life of around 20,000 hours and it ships with a remote control, power adapter and user manual. Input wise it has HDMI, YPbPr, S-Video, Composite A/V, headphone and VGA as well as 2 built-in speakers.

The RIOHD-LED2 is said to ship in early February under a $348 price tag which is early than the late February early march release date of the RIOLED-Q and RIOLED-V whose prices are still unknown.

Monday, January 4, 2010

Hitachi CP-D10 Projector

Looking for a projector for your small conference rooms or classrooms? The check out the CP-D10 from Hitachi. The CP-D10 is a smaller XGA LCD projector created with small rooms in mind. The CP-D10 is considered a "short throw" projector and for a number of different reasons. It can project an 80" image diagonally from as far away as 3 feet. This projector uses a fixed normal lens that projects through a second convex lens. By doing this the projector only allows digital zooming and it also requires the user to place the projector at a proper distance for you desired screen size.

To get into some specific specs, the CP-D10 has a specified output of 2000 lumens as well as a 400:1 contrast ratio. Portability is also a good thing to have with projectors, especially if you have to lug from conference room to conference room or from classroom to classroom. Well the CP-D10 is highly portable weighing only 7.7 pounds and measuring 13.1 inches wide, 11.9 inches deep and 4.1 inches tall. The device has multiple AV connection options including RGB 2in/1out, Composite Video, S-Video, Component Video and Audio 3in/1out. The 2000 lumen bulb is said to last up to 4,000 hours in Eco Mode as well.

Being made by Hitachi, its no surprise that the CP-D10 has some of the company's proprietary functions. Functions like MyScreen, which allows the user to set up a personal startup or blank screen with a picture or company logo, MyMemory, which allows the user to save up to 4 memories for adjustment data, MyButton, which is two buttons on the remote that can be programmed for one touch adjustment of picture, input, MyMemory settings, resolution, template display, zoom and more, MyText, which allows the user to enter text for display on the startup input information screens and MySource, which allows for easy selection of input source from the remote control, are all included as well as AMX Device Discovery technology which allows all AMX Integrated Central Controllers to automatically recognize the CP-D10 and systematically load the appropriate communications module or driver, initializing the CP-D10 to be used without any user setup.

Line templates can be accessed from the projector's menu or by MyButton. These can be used for organizing writing on a white board and there are four types of line templates as well as two circle templates and two map templates. Another added feature with the CP-D10 is the option of closed captions. Many projectors on the market can not display closed captions however the CP-D10 is capable of this option which makes it invaluable in schools with hearing-impaired students.

Hitachi is one of the leaders in K-12 classroom projectors and the CP-D10 looks to be right up there with all of Hitachi's other great projectors. With its many features and short throw capabilities, the CP-D10 is a perfect tool for any classroom or small conference room. You can pick up the Hitachi CP-D10 projector now for $999.

Looking for an Affordable LCD Projector Rental then call 800-736-8772 today. Ask about the newest section on Training Class Projector Rentals for all your small setting projector rental needs.

Monday, December 28, 2009

RoyalTek RPJ-2000 Pico Projector

RoyalTek out of Taiwan has been working very hard in their pico projector market as they have just announced the first of what seems to be a total of five new pico projectors set to be released during 2010. Introducing RoyalTek's RPJ-2000, a pico projector that packs some pretty good specs.

The RPJ-2000 is the first ever palm-sized pico projector from RoyalTek. The projector is said to use a second generation 3M LCos chipset. The projector is also said to be able to project an image of up to 65-inches with a brightness of 14-lumens and a 640x480 resolution.

The RPJ-2000 comes with VGA and NTSC/PAL TV inputs but does not contain an integrated mediaplayer or onboard storage like many pico projectors already on the market do. The RPJ-2000 does, however, come with 0.5W stereo speakers.

One thing that may bring in a lot of customers is that the RPJ-2000 is Apple certified. This means it will have the ability to connect to your iPhone or iPod if you purchase the adapter kit which will run you about $43. Among other features the RPJ-2000 has LED backlight and is designed with Quanta's cooling technology.

This device will run you around $315 though no word on sale of the projector outside of Taiwan has been released. A few details on the other four projectors have arisen including a hint that one of them will contain a digital TV tuner. This model is expected to hit the market in time for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in June. The RPJ-2000 comes in two colors: black and white.

Thursday, December 24, 2009

Optoma HD20 Projector

Everybody loves their giant flat screen tv's with their beautiful 1080p resolution and high pixel count and whatever else goes along with it. But such tv's can be pricey, especially if you want really good quality. But thanks to increased projector technology you can enjoy 1080p quality from a projector that looks as good if not better than most tv's and that also won't break the bank.

Optoma Technology has just introduced the company's first 1080p DLP projector to cost less than $1,000. The Optoma HD20 comes in with a suggested store price of $999 which, technically, is less but come on, a whole dollar? But putting that aside, the Optoma HD20 is a really good little projector.

In fact, the specs on this projector could rival a few popular flat screen tv's. The Optoma HD comes with 1,700 ANSI lumens of brightness as well as a 4,000:1 contrast ratio. Video inputs come in the form of 2 HDMI, one VGA, one component and one composite video input. The HD20 runs a native 1080p resolution (1920 x 1808) and can scale most objects, other video and computer formats like UXGA, WXGA, SXGA, SXGA+, XGA, SVGA resized, VESA, PC and Macintosh.

The lamp light is very impressive. The light lasts for 4,000 hours in standard mode and it lasts up to 3. To save energy, the HD20 incorporates a rapid shutdown feature. A one year parts and labor warranty comes in the box however the warranty only lasts for 90 days on the lamp.

The projector itself weighs around 6.4.pounds and also comes with its own remote and batteries. The remote has a backlit illumination and a composite video cable as well as other accessories. Many different retail stores and websites have already signed on to the HD20 like Amazon.com, Adorama, Beach Camera, Best Buy, B&H Photo Video, CDW, Fry's Electronics, J&R Micro Center, Nebraska Furniture Mart, PC Richard, ProjectorPeople.com, Staples.com and Visual Apex.

John Grodem, Product Marketing Director for Optoma, said in a statement, "We're very excited to be at the forefront of such a 'significant breakthrough' in HD projectors. This new, low price opens up a whole new audience to the high-definition, large-screen, home theater projection experience." Many users will absolutely love how the HD20 displays an image more than 9 times larger than a 40-inch flat screen. The HD20 projects a picture that is greater than 120 push ups.

Overall it seems that Optoma has taken a lead from Vivitek's H1080FD which is also a 1080p DLP projector as well for the same price. While $999 isn't the smallest number in the world and not one that makes us jump to our wallets and get ready to buy a flat screen tv or projector. What it does do is open up the projectors appeal to younger audiences that much stronger. If you want an all around good projector then look no further than the Optoma HD20 1080 DLP Projector. Plus, Optoma is probably a better known name than Vivitek.

Sunday, December 13, 2009

A Projector in Your Cell Phone?

3M has announced the creation of a "Mobile Interactive Solutions Division." Its focus will be to make little projectors that fit into mobile devices. Even though the company already makes tiny projectors that are about the size of a cell phone, they could possibly be making projectors that will come built into your cell phone in the near future.

"More and more people depend on mobile devices for constant information and communication in today’s technology-dependent world, and 3M can play a big role in improving their experiences," said Mark Collin, the Vice President and General Manager of the new Mobile Interactive Solutions Division.

According to a press release by 3M, they were the first company to hit the market with a mobile projector. "The second generation of the product, the MPro model 120 introduced in October, is one of the brightest and most energy efficient battery-powered projectors on the market," the press release stated.

Looking for an Affordable LCD Projector Rental then call 800-736-8772 today. Ask about the newest type of projector that's "all in the mirrors" and see if a DLP Projector Rental is right for you.

Thursday, December 3, 2009

Mitsubishi HC3800 Home Theater Projector

New from Mitsubishi is the HC3800, a DLP 1080p which falls somewhere between really good projectors that do not have the best leading edge image quality for around $1,000 and fully featured 1080p projectors for around $2,000 and up. The HC3800 has a bright picture with good contrast to allow for use on a large screen in a darkened theater atmosphere but it is also good enough to be used in your personal living room.

The HC3800 has a high lumen output which makes it good for dark and bright rooms. Many projectors come with image modes but this device does not. It does, however, come with many different color and gamma temperature settings which allow for completely customizable settings. The brightest picture was created by using the "sports" gamma and the "high brightness" color temperature presets. The picture measured 1346 lumens. While in this mode, the contrast is slightly lessened as well as color balance. However, put this thing in a room with ambient light and it will produce a dynamic picture.

"Cinema" mode puts out a bright 621 lumens picture which is very comparable with other projectors and you can also use a screen up to 150" diagonally in a dark room with decent light control. However, 621 lumens is pretty bright for many situations. But by turning on low light mode you can reduce the lumen output by 15%. Low lamp mode has a few benefits to it other than a lower brightness. On one hand it greatly reduces fan noise and it also increases lamp life potentially from 2,000 to 5,000 hours. You can also reduce lumen output by another 22% by turning off BrilliantColor which is enabled by default.

The HC3800 has a contrast ratio of 4000:1. With such a contrast ratio, many people may think that the picture will be bland or dull. However, the HC3800's ANSI contrast exceeds 600:1. This ratio matches and even exceeds some projectors that carry extreme on/off contrast ratings. The HC3800's black levels can not compare with more expensive projectors but the HC3800 does look just as good as any other device.

Fine detail is cleanly displayed, even when it is in motion. The HC3800 had no problems passing the HQV Film Resolution Loss Test. In addition the HC3800 has very little digital noise in comparison to other models. Solid color areas like backgrounds and wallpapers are very clean and have nearly no noise about them.

The lens on the HC3800 has a manual 1:5:1 zoom lens which is very good for a DLP projector like this. Only 18% of maximum light output is lost between the telephoto and wide ends of the zoom lens. This allows the HC3800 to have a better throw range flexibility than some other DLP projectors available for $999 which offer 1.2x zoom.

Considering that the HC3800 is an inexpensive DLP projector, it is not surprising that it does not contain a lens shift. The image offset is 29% of the picture height which means, for example, that on a 100" diagonal screen, the bottom of the screen will appear 14" above the lens' centerline. An aggressive offset like this is useful mounting the projector on your ceiling or placing it on a small, low table. However, because of this you rule out rear shelf usage.

Overall the HC3800 seems to be a solid projector and it seems to be a good competitor in the low priced 1080p home theater projectors market. It comes with a bright video optimized picture that contains excellent contrast coupled with a 1:5:1 zoom lens. The HC3800 is economical with it's 5,000 hour lamp which will greatly reduce maintenance costs down the line. The HC3800 does require some calibration but that has proven to benefit most projectors. In conclusion Mitsubishi's HC3800 is an excellent projector and well worth your cash. You can pick one of these up for $1,499.

Need a projector rental? Consider www.Rentacomputer.com, renting projectors since 1987. Or you can check out Rentourprojectors.com with their specific section on Family Reunion Projector Rentals