Three New Fixed Installation Projectors from Sony

Sony has just announced three brand new projector models that are aimed specifically at organizations that have a need for a fixed installation projector. The company is ready to launch the all new VPL-CW275, VPL-FH31 and VPL-FH36 over the course of the next couple of months with the target markets being universities, corporations, museums and medical applications that use fixed installation projectors for lectures or presentations.

All three of these new projectors will be equipped with BrightEra 3LCD Inorganic Panel technology in addition to energy efficient features and flexible installation options, allowing you to literally have the most efficient setup possible based on your situation. 

The VPL-CW275, which is a part of Sony's existing CW225 line, comes with one of the brightest outputs that the company offers. In addition to that, this projector has a new Picture Muting feature that allows for the picture to be switched off instantaneously for a brief period of time by pushing a single button. Also included with the VPL-CW275 is a lens shift range and screen fitting feature that allows you to easily adjust the device after installing. 

The VPL-FH31 and VPL-FH36 projectors are both enhanced replacements for Sony's existing VPL-FH30 and VPL-FH35 projectors. They are also said to offer the best in class image quality with both projectors providing WUXGA 1,920 x 1,080 resolution and full HD compatibility. 

Each of these projectors is expected to be released sometime between now and January 2013, according to Sony. Unfortunately, the company has yet to announce at this time a pricing scheme for these devices. 

Source: Projector Point - Sony announces three new fixed installation projectors

3M Debuts New Streaming Projector Powered by Roku

Content streaming is becoming the next big thing in digital entertainment. More and more people are digitally downloading their content and streaming it to their televisions, smartphones and other electronic devices. Projector manufacturer 3M has recognized this and created the Streaming Projector, which merges the incredible picture size and quality you get from a projector with the streaming content that Roku is known for.

The projector itself isn't very big, which keeps it in line with most technology these days. It is small enough to fit in the palm of your hand and only weighs about one pound, making it easily transportable. In addition to that, the projector is capable of projecting an image of up to 120" diagonally with a resolution of 800 x 480, which isn't the best that can be offered, especially if you are serious about HD content, though it is respectable considering the size of the projector as a whole.

Adding to the convenience of the device, this projector is also battery powered and should last around 2 hours and 45 minutes per charge, meaning it should last you long enough to watch an entire movie. But if you are watching a movie near an AC power outlet then losing power won't even be an issue. Just make sure you bring the adapter cable along if you are planning on having a movie marathon.

Integration comes through HDMI, meaning you can gain access to all of Roku's content, including Netflix, Hulu Plus, Amazon and Crakle. You can also connect this projector to an Xbox 360, PS3 or any other HDMI-compatible device. Roku also gives you access to over 600 channels, so you will never be at a loss for content.

Internet connection can be accessed via WiFi while a small remote is also included, allowing you to control your projector comfortably from wherever you are sitting. The projector also comes with small, built-in speakers as well as audio out for hooking up additional sound systems. You can pre-order the projector right now at Amazon for $299 with the projector actually shipping on October 22, 2012.

Source: Gizmag - New 3M projector streams Roku content

New Pro9000 LED Laser Projector Debuted by ViewSonic

ViewSonic has just debuted a new high-end flagship video projector with the Pro9000, one of the first LED laser projectors to hit the consumer home-cinema market. According to ViewSonic, LED laser technology has all the advantages of a traditional DLP system with none of the deficits. What this means is that the "rainbow effect" that usually occurs with DLP projectors has been significantly reduced with the Pro9000.

This technology, in conjunction with a Texas Instruments DarkChip 3 processor and 1080p full HD, makes this projector perfect for any home cinema setup. ViewSonic stated that the Pro9000 should also ensure brightness levels of up to 1,600 lumens as well as have a contrast ratio of 100,000:1. The only drawback here is that the Pro9000 isn't 3D compatible and has no motion-compensation mode to ensure that fast-paced action sequences flow smoothly.

The rear of the device houses all of the connectivity options, and there are quite a few to choose from. Aside from the standard power outlet, the Pro9000 comes with two HDMI ports, a single VGA port, a composite connector, a single S-video port and an RS-232 serial port. In terms of functionality, the Pro9000 has a zoom function and also offers manual focusing, even though there is no lens-shift, which some users may find disappointing.

The Pro9000 from ViewSonic is set to debut sometime in October and will be heading to the UK first with an estimated retail price of £1,600. No word yet on when the Pro9000 will come to the U.S. or on how much it will cost when, or if, it arrives.

Source: Digital Versus - ViewSonic Presents Pro9000 LED Laser Projector

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DPI Beefs Up LED, 3D Projectors

Digital Projection International was recently spotted at InfoComm 2012 in Las Vegas sporting a new booth layout. The new style placed all the company's projectors out in the open beaming onto over 12 different screens. It was a risky move due to the fact that there would have been no way to mask any faults in the projectors. However, sometimes bold moves like this pay off in big ways.

The reason for this setup was for commercial applications, though Michael Bridwell, DPI's Director of Marketing, did something similar at CEDIA Expo 2012 as well. Since this was a residential tradeshow, DPI had a few dedicated dark theaters in its exhibit, though the point still got across with several screens remaining out in the open, including a 214" centerpiece from Stewart Filmscreen.

According to a statement from Birdwell, "We're having that ambient light discussion with dealers like we did at InfoComm. Some of the guys here are picking up light commercial jobs, but this is the first time the entire channel has gotten to see this layout."

The ambient light angle was a good move for DPI for many reasons. For one, it was demonstrating new products with increased brightness across the board. Some of the major highlighted products included the HIGHlite 330-3D and the dVision LED projectors, both of which were being featured in the dedicated rooms as well.

The HIGHlite 330 was being displayed as a unit that delivers high brightness 3D from a 3-chip projector for a fraction of the cost . In addition to that, it was being touted as a counterpart to the lower-rung Titan projectors and is priced at $29,995, which is nearly 60% of the cost of an entry-level Titan. What's more is that this device is also 3D capable and can produce 2,900 to 3,000 lumens in 3D or 4,500 lumens in 2D.

The dVision LED model, which is already available for purchase, features the same chassis as the dVision Scope and natively switches from 16:9 to 2.35:1 without the need for an anamorphic lens. The Scope and LED models were working hard at the booth, both also being featured in the dedicated theaters. DPI's entire lineup of LED models, which are priced between $12,995 and $39,995, received a brightness boost with the dVision LED displaying the highest brightness at 1,100 lumens.

Source: CEPro - Digital Projection Raises Bar on 3D, LED Projectors

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New Short-Throw VPL-BW120S Projector Debuted by Sony

Sony, who is known for being quite successful in a variety of different technological fields, has just unveiled its latest addition to the company's long line of projectors with the debut of the VPL-BW120S. The new VPL-BW120S is the latest projector from Sony to fall under the home theater category, which means that this device is perfect for living rooms, entertainment centers or anywhere else you want to enjoy your favorite movies, television shows and games in your home.

This projector also features space-saving and glare-less short throw technology crafted by Sony. What this means is that this projector is perfect for use in the home or other industries that find short-throw projecting a necessity. In addition to that, this technology allows the VPL-BW120S to project images of up to 100 inches diagonally from a distance of only 4 feet away. As a point of reference, a typical projector requires around 14 to 15 feet of distance from the screen or wall it is projecting on.

The VPL-BW120S also comes with a brightness of 2,600 lumens, allowing you to experience a clearer projection in a variety of lighting settings, just like you would with a normal television. This saves you from having to constantly pull the blinds on your windows or hang sheets or blankets to block out the sun if you want to watch something in the daytime. What's more is that this device also features rich color reproduction along with a high contrast ratio and a 12-bit gamma correction for smooth color gradients.

According to Head of Marketing for B2B Products and Solutions at Sony Professional Solutions MEA Hidenori Taguchi, "We have seen great interest from consumers to replicate theater-like experiences in their homes; however, what hindered this move was the expense involved in such a replication as well as the aesthetic barriers of placing projectors in a living room. We expect the VPL-BW120S to be well received by this audience as it is designed to ensure that families and friends enjoy clear projection without compromising on clarity, space and energy efficiency. With Sony's VPL-BW120S, families will not have to arrange their living arrangement around the projector - but instead can easily fit the projector into their existing living arrangement."

It is expected that the new VPL-BW120S short-throw projector from Sony will hit store shelves at the end of August, which is in about four days, so be on the lookout for this device if you are considering going the projector route for your home entertainment solution.

Source: ITP.net - Sony releases new home projector

General Imaging's iPico Projector Coming Holiday 2012

General Imaging has recently announced the release of the iPico, a portable projector designed for iPhones and iPod Touch devices. All you have to do is insert your device into the pop-up connector on the iPico and you will be able to share pictures, videos, movies, YouTube and Facebook with anybody, anywhere and anytime. Images can be produced in up to a 50" picture with the iPico, which will retail for $129.99 when it is released in time for the 2012 holiday shopping season.

No cables are needed with the iPico as the pop-up connector is all you need to start projecting. Just slide in your device, focus on any flat surface and instantly start projecting. This is perfect for those situations when you capture the perfect video on your phone and want to show it to all your friends and family. Instead of passing the iPhone around or trying to crowd everybody around it, simply attach the iPico and show the images to everybody in a comfortable setting.

The device itself only weighs 3.35 ounces and is about 2/3 the width of an iPhone. The pop-up connector, which is only half an inch thick, neatly slides down into the dock when not in use and easily fits inside your pocket or bag. When you are using the iPico to project, the device conveniently holds your device in place and, in most cases, doesn't require removing the protective case from your iPhone or iPod.

According to General Imaging's Vice President of Marketing and Product Placement Paul Meyhoefer, "We've watched the phenomenal growth of portable devices and smart phones and have tapped into the borderline obsession these owners have with their devices. Combine the explosion of social media and the need to share almost every aspect of one's life with those around them, we believe iPico is a valuable accessory that allows these technology devotees to do just that."

Like I said earlier, the iPico from General Imaging will be available by the 2012 holiday shopping season for $129.99. It will come with a built-in rechargeable Lithium-ion battery and a USB charging cable and should be a good device for anybody who sees the need for anytime, on-the-go projecting.

Source: The Gadgeteer - Be a Big Show Off with the iPico Projector

Samsung's Galaxy Beam Released in the UK

Samsung has officially released its latest version of the Galaxy Beam smartphone, which comes with a built-in projector. The device is currently available in the UK only and is capable of casting up to 50 inches of high definition content onto a wall or other flat surface. The current model was first debuted back in February at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona.

According to Vice President of Samsung UK and Ireland Simon Stanford, "It's the kind of device you won't find anywhere else - a high-definition projector within a standard-sized smartphone - and is great for people who want to watch movies, show photos to friends or need to give a presentation while they're out and about."

The very first iteration of the Galaxy Beam was unveiled back in 2010. The update brought a larger screen that measured 4' as opposed to 3.7', though the device still carries a very outdated operating system in Android 2.3 Gingerbread. The smartphone also runs on a dual-core 1GHz processor and features a 5-megapixel camera along with 8GB of internal memory.

No official UK pricing was announced by Samsung for the Galaxy Beam, though carriers have been announced and include T-Mobile and Orange through Carphone Warehouse. Orange has the cheapest offer which involves a free device and a £31 monthly contract. Various independent online retailers are also offering the device for around £400.

Source: ZD Net - Samsung's Galaxy Beam projector-phone goes on sale in UK

Pixelworks Debuts New SoC for Next-Generation Projectors

Pixelworks has just announced that it has started shipping a new SoC that is targeted at next-generation, mainstream LCD and DLP projectors for use in the education, business and home theater segments. The new device is known as the Topaz SoC and, according to Pixelworks, supports 1080p and WUXGA 1,920 x 1,080 resolutions along with standard and non-standard 3D content. This includes 3D format decoding with a universal 3D glasses interface.

In addition to that, the SoC comes with a video decoder that supports 8/10 bit analog inputs or HDMI/DVI digital inputs (including HDMI 1.3, 1.4 3D), a USB 2.0 host controller, Ethernet MAC, on-screen display menu controller and an ARM9 processor, which allows you to enable projector vendors to use custom applications.

According to Senior Vice President of Pixelworks Graham Loveridge, "Current projector technology is undergoing a significant transition as more diverse and sophisticated applications become available, creating expanded opportunities for our newest family of products. The evolution in illumination engines and light source technology is migrating from traditional lamp-based light sources to LED and laser technologies, which will enable a lower cost of ownership as well as more compact and portable designs."

Pixelworks has yet to unveil any specific products that will feature the company's new SoC, though Pixelworks did say that the new SoC is targeted at mainstream LCD and DLP projectors for the education and business markets, as well as for use in the home theater market, which means that there could be a large assortment of projectors that will be utilizing Pixelworks' new SoC.

Source: Tom's Hardware - Pixelworks Launches SoC for Next-Gen LED, 3D Projectors

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Canon Updates LV Range with 10 New Projectors

The European branch of Canon has just launched a major update to its successful LV range of portable projectors by adding 10 new models to its lineup. Canon's LV projector line has proven to be very popular in the corporate setting as well as the education industry. In addition to adding the new projectors, the line has also been divided into three different classes. The LV range now comes in Standard, Middle and Advanced models, each of which is tailored to specific needs.

The four projectors of the ten that are categorized as Advanced provide a brightness of between 2,200 and 3,000 lumens and also feature network connectivity and built-in 10W speakers. The Middle category projectors come with 1W speakers and HDMI inputs and offer brightness between 2,220 and 2,600 lumens in XGA and WXGA formats. The three models in the Standard category provide long-life lamps and filters while also offering brightness of between 2,200 lumens and 3,000 lumens in XGA format.

According to Julian Rutland, Canon's Visual Communication Products and Solutions Director, "The projectors will be valuable additions to Canon's stable of consumer products." In addition to that, Rutland added, "The expansion of our LV range and the recent addition of two new models in our XEED installation range means that Canon now has a projector for a home office right through to a powerful installed projector in an exhibition hall."

Source: Projector Point - Canon adds 10 new projectors to its LV range

Sony Debuts New SRX-R515 4K Digital Projector

Sony recently debuted its brand new line of next-gen 4K digital projectors. What makes these projectors special, however, is that they are currently the very first 4K projectors in the industry to utilize high-pressure mercury lamps.

Known as the Sony SRX-R515 4K Digital Cinema Projection System, the physical device is currently being showcased at the CineEurope trade event currently in progress in Barcelona this entire week. Sony has specifically designed the SRX-R515 to be used in small or medium-sized screen auditoriums or for use in smaller cinemas that are working on a limited budget.

In addition to that, the SRX-R515 has been designed to offer brand new capabilities for purposes that are not too common in current projectors. This includes places like sports theaters and multi-user big-screen gaming, like tournaments or events.

According to Sony Digital Cinema's David McIntosh, this new compact projector comes with an increased flexibility with installation in smaller projection booths, which creates more operating space for smaller locations. McIntosh went on to say, "Blacks are incredibly detailed and we believe the picture quality with this projector, although it's lower cost and although it's aimed at a different market, the actual picture quality is astonishingly good, literally incredible."

McIntosh also added, "The smaller or medium-sized screen venues will be able to ensure that their customers are literally seeing the best possible picture on screen of any film that they're playing." The SRX-R515 comes with six high-pressure mercury lamps as opposed to the more traditional xenon lamps, which allows for quick and easy lamp replacement and a lower total cost of ownership for an estimated 10 years.

Source: Projector Point - Next generation 4K digital projector launched by Sony

Sharp XV-Z30000 Control4 Certified

Sharp Electronics Marketing Company of America has just reported that its XV-Z30000 home theater projector is now Control4 certified. The XV-Z30000 has already passed interoperabillity tests to ensure that it is able to easily integrate with Control4 home-automation systems.

In addition to that, the XV-Z30000 is Sharp's latest 2D/3D capable high definition DLP home theater projector to hit the market. This device provides 3D visuals and also features a 50,000:1 contrast ratio as well as 1,600 ANSI lumens, according to Sharp.

The XV-Z30000 attributes some of its great picture quality to the use of DLP technology. In addition to that, Sharp's proprietary digital image ICs allow the XV-Z30000 to reproduce high quality 3D pictures with low cross talk and flicker, according to a recent statement from the company.

According to Strategic Product Marketing Vice President for Sharp Electronics Marketing Company of America Jim Sanduski, "No matter what the content, the XV-Z30000 offers a compelling entertainment projection solution. Now the XV-Z30000 integrates seamlessly with Control4 to provide consumers with easy-to-use, intelligent automation control for a completely enjoyable home entertainment experience."

Control4 allows third party manufacturers to design products that are able to easily integrate with the Control4 platform. Control4 promotes interoperabillity through the easy assimilation of leading consumer electronics within a Control4 system with more than 6,500 drivers from 150 different companies.

Source: Twice - Sharp Projector Gets Control4 Certification

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AAXA Releases New HD WiFi P4 Pico Projector

Pico projectors are nifty little devices, but they haven't quite gained the popularity that their producers believed to they would. That's not to say that pico projectors are entirely useless. They do have a bit of a niche market and there are still a ton of people out there that like them and use them regularly, which is why companies keep making them. The newest pico projector to hit the market is the P4 WiFi Pico Projector by AAXA.

The P4 by AAXA is a pico projector that comes with built-in WiFi connectivity and is capable of producing up to 100 lumens of brightness, which is a 20 lumens improvement over the previous model. In addition to that, the P4 utilizes the latest converter green technology from Osram in order to increase brightness while also remaining energy efficient. The battery life is said to last for up to 75 minutes, which means it is good for on the spot projection, though anything substantial will require you to leave the device plugged in.

The integrated 750MHz processor allows the P4 to display 720p HD video with aplomb. This capability perfectly complements the 2GB of internal memory, which can also be further upgraded via microSD card slot. The P4 also comes with a keyboard/mouse combo that makes using the device quick and easy, no matter what the situation.

As far as pricing goes, the AAXA P4 WiFi Pico Projector retails for $399, which is a little expensive, especially considering the fact that you can get a standard, tabletop projector for that same price or less, though the main selling point here is obviously the portability and the HD video. Pico projectors aren't for everybody but they do have their uses. They're great if you want to pop one out and project something on the spot or for traveling if you decide that you want to watch a movie while on the road. Like I said, the P4 WiFi Pico Projector from AAXA retails for $399 and is available now.

Source: Ubergizmo - AAXA P4 Wi-Fi Pico Projector

Wolf Cinema Adds Two New Projectors to Reference Series

Wolf Cinema has just announced that the latest models in the company's signature Reference Series 2D and 3D theater projectors have already begun to be shipped. The new projectors coming to Wolf Cinema's lineup include the new REF-700 and the REF-1000. Both projectors are said to offer high-performance 3D images on screens up to 18 feet wide.

In addition to that, both models utilize modular Cermax xenon arc lamps along with three-chip DLP light engines and your choice of six different high-contrast VariScope primary lens packages. Wolf is also including with these projectors its advanced video-processing system with custom film algorithms, optional cinema Triple-Flash 3D imaging technologies and custom 3D glasses, according to the company. 

According to President of Wolf Cinema John Hunter, "The REF Series are extraordinary - frankly, we're surprised at how much we've been able to improve upon the visual performance of the previous generation. The imaging is cleaner, more highly resolved without looking etched and with greater sense of instantaneous dynamics when fast-transitioning between light levels."

Wolf's i-Box design, which is used in all of the company's Reference models, allows you to customize installations in difficult locations while ensuring long-life components. Each system uses high-velocity air flow directed throughout the chassis as well as over all the critical system components. The VariScope memory lens system also enables the viewing of a plethora of TV and film content without the need of any external anamorphic lenses. 

This technique accesses a wide range of aspect ratios, including 16:9 and even CinemaScope 2.35/2.40:1, and even stores them in memory for quick access from the projector's remote whenever you need it. The new Reference Series projectors are available as 2D-only or can be configured as Full 3D HD imaging systems. The 3D versions, however, do come with the latest TripleFlash imaging technologies, which allows for ultra-smooth, ghost-free performances. A near-field 3D emitter and four pairs of custom 3D glasses are included with each 3D projector and both the REF-700 and REF-1000 are shipping now for $75,000 retail. 

Source: Twice - Wolf Beefs Up Signature Projector Line

Epson - The Best Video Projector Brand

About.com named Espon the 2012 Reader's Choice Award for best video projector brand yesterday. This is a wonderful award for Epson; we've featured countless Epson products on this blog for years and this award only helps affirm why. Epson received 58% of the About.com votes. The closest competitor was Mitsubishi with only 26%.

Epson is the number one selling projector brand in the world, whether for home or business use, and they have a product for every need. Compact projectors are available for those needing to travel. Pro Cinema projectors are, as Epson puts it, "The ultimate home theater experience for the discriminating enthusiast." Epson also carries a line of projectors known as MovieMate. These projectors have built in DVD and music players that make them a great option for showing movies without having to bring along extra accessories. But, if you do need accessories, Epson carries a full array of them as well. Everything from lamps to mounts to carrying cases, and Epson is constantly producing new products to improve their customer experience.

So, from all of us here at The Projector Blog, congratulations, Epson; keep on being the great company that we know and love you as.