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Casio XJ-560 Projector: Half the Size, but equal the Features

daniel — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 14:31:13 +0000

The Casio XJ-560 projector is very compact and bright at the same time, having almost all the functions and features of projectors that are twice of its size! The company better known for its Casio cameras, has also developed a quality DLP projector for home use with this model. The XJ-560 makes use of a unique new ‘condenser lens’ and its lamp has been designed to render enormously bright images, which can be viewed comfortably even under the normal lighting conditions, all this in an extremely compact and highly portable ‘magnesium alloy’ case.

The Casio projector attributes a ‘2X optical zoom lens’, the highest level of zoom that is available for a ‘data projector’, which enables the user to project images, data or videos onto a screen that is as close as ‘1.6 meters’ away, obtaining an image of about 1.2m in width, hence making the Casio XJ-560 DLP projector an appropriate choice for the environments where there is limited space. Apart from this, the XJ-560 also has the automatic horizontal and vertical ‘Keystone Correction’ through an inbuilt ‘optical differential sensor’ and an ‘autofocus zoom lens’. A combined of this two enables you to place the projector in the ‘off centre axis’ to the screen, still achieving a squared image without any distortion to it.

One other fascinating feature of the XJ 560 is that, when it is combined with an ‘optional standalone document camera system’, it permits you to put together documents, update photos and 3D objects in the presentation. Also, this projector from the Japanese manufacturer Casio is even ceiling mountable, regarded as the best for personal or professional purposes.

RTX55H: Awesome Grand Cinema from SIM2

martin — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 09:41:35 +0000

Not many products that I have come across off late have left me amazed and speechless. But SIM2’s RTX55H has managed both and more. This is part of its Grand Cinema RTX series and is nothing less than a revolutionary concept, by the company’s own admission as well as my assessment.

They have made it as a ‘self contained’ offering and it scores on all the fronts. They have worked on it keeping the home cinema enthusiasts in mind. It has a screen size of 55 inch and uses Texas Instruments DLP light engine (HD2+ chip) that ensures true resolution of 1280×720 pixels. This means regular LCD TVs, like the Sony KDL-40W4500, have a higher resolution, but for a projection monitor, the RTX55H is still rather impressive. Its contrast ratio of more than 2300:1 is good enough to cause very bright images. The high resolution lens further helps in higher contrast and black level with focus adjustment as well as motorised zoom.

For better viewing it provides colour temperature adjustment option that also has three preset colour temperatures. For video playing it offers some extra set of capabilities and adjustments. Some of the popular and useful options are noise reduction, gamma correction, Microvision Anticopy Pulses Cleaner and image panning & zooming.

One thing for which consumers are now becoming more demanding is the connectivity options. With the idea that was behind this Grand Cinema, it was supposed to have all the connectors available and Sim2 has taken effort to ensure that it does. It comes with 2 HDMIs, 3 RCA, 2 composite video via RCA, 2 RGB via DB15 HD, 1 DVI via DVI-D and 2 (RJ-45 for internet) LC connectors.

And the biggest surprise (I was expecting something like that) is the fact that the beautiful cabinet made of prestigious material has been designed by none another then Giorgio Revoldini, the award winning designer. The end result is just awesome.

It is rarely that manufacturers come out with such kind of products and my sincere opinion is this one is a must buy for all the home cinema enthusiasts.

Planar PD8150: Luminous DLP Projector to make your Friends jealous

martin — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 01:52:19 +0000

“Thou shall not covet” just got a lot harder, that’s what Planar says about its luminous projector PD8150 on its website. A strong statement to make and if it’s not backed by something worth it, that would be very disappointing.

Planar itself is not a very old company and had only a few years ago forayed into home theatres but this product of theirs has really done some wonders. And can be expected to give some serious competition to other established players and models from InFocus, SIM2 and the like.

It uses Texas Instruments’ 1080p DLP chip, offers contrast ratio of 15,000:1 (claimed) and brightness out put of 1000 lumens (max). It also makes use of DynamicBlack processing engine so as to give as good contrast as possible. Further, BrilliantColor (by TI) system enables better colour and contrast. This all adds up to an impressive combination and the picture quality is there for everyone to see and appreciate.

Taking into account the latest developments, the HDMI (both) has been built to the v1.3 standard. It also has horizontal and vertical lens shift with 2 lenses options. The Planar PD8150 DLP projector also offers front, rear and ceiling projection modes. There is ample scope to account for any possible future connectivity changes. The size and weight not being a hindrance in its operability, it is an outstanding product among the Digital Light Processing projectors.

Planar finally also goes on to claim, this projector is the stuff jealousy is made of. And to be honest, they are not off the mark in saying that.

SIM2 D80E DLP Projector: E stands for Evolution

martin — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 17:04:42 +0000

D80E is an outstanding product offered by Italy based home theatre and projection specialist Sim2. It is part of the Domino series offered by Sim2 as part of its DLP (Digital Light Processing) projector line. The fact that E in the name stands for ‘Evolution,’ perhaps goes a long way in explaining the quality of the product.

If on one hand to ensure best technology it uses 1080p DLP chipset by Texas Instruments, then to give viewers the very best in picture quality it offers 1920×1080 pixel HDTV resolution. The projector also utilises BrilliantColor technology to enhance the colours and Unishape lamp technology, making it top of the line product. With its Live Colors Management software it offers the viewers a never before enjoyed experience.

Not to be left behind on any account D80E also includes 160w lamp that ensures a very bright image irrespective of the size of the image. To make the product even more attractive it comes with future-proof input in the form of HDMI-HDCP. In addition to all this, the Sim2 Domino D80E DLP projector has certain features which Digital Light Processing projects sometimes lack, vertical lens shift option being just one of them.

The absolute guarantee of it being the best out there is that it basically uses much of the technology that Sim2 had used in HT3000E, a projector that won them innumerable awards. To get all that in a compact form and at a far cheaper price, nothing can beat that.

Planar PD8130 DLP Projector: The Beauty and the Beast

thomas — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 22:51:12 +0000

The US brand Planar is doing a great job in the UK since it made its entry into the country in the summer of 2007, and is keeping all the customers entrapped with its exclusive range of spectacular LCD TVs and projectors. The latest offer by the company is the PD8130 DLP Projector, which belongs at the top of the company’s current range, but is just below the most revered Planar PD8150 flagship model.

The unit has rather big dimensions, but importantly it doesn’t affect the aesthetic appeal of the unit. Going by its design and various specifications it looks quite apparent that a lot of research and thought has gone into developing the final version of the Planar PD8130 DLP projector. Elements like the inclusion of a cabinet that limits the stray light output to less than 50% of the brightness of projected black, as well as other note worthy features like built-in sound dampeners and shock-mounted components, with the intention to eliminate operating noise, are evidence enough. Then, the presence of angles and the side vents are there to ensure that the hot air emitted by the unit is effectively kept away from you.

The good things of the DLP projector extend to its connectivity as well, where you can find the entire range of contemporary features, be it on the video side or on the audio side. The former includes two v1.3 HDMIs, a component video port, a D-Sub PC port, an S-Video port, as well as a phono composite jack. The unit has a well supported mechanism for its custom install focus too, ably supported by components like an RS-232 D-Sub control jack, a 3.5mm mono emitter input, and a 12V screen trigger.

Optoma GameTime GT7000 DLP Projector: Ready to create Waves

kate — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 15:29:54 +0000

When the first GameTime model, the GT-3000, was launched by Optoma, with the clear intention of attracting the fancy of the gaming community, it received mostly mixed reviews. Despite the moderate success of the model, what was really inspiring was the package that followed it, as it included a host of modern-day features like- a DLP projector, a separate, colour-matched 2.1 speaker system, along with a customised bag; so that you can carry the entire gadget with you. The most amazing part of it all was that the unit was available at a very cheap price. The major drawback that proved to be the bane of the model was the conspicuous absence of HD support.

But Optoma with the launch of the GT-7000 has eliminated that negative aspect as it comes equipped with an HD Ready native resolution along with an HDMI input, a good enough incentive to lure you into the party mode. You will soon realize that the renewed HD credentials are not the only improvements, as the Optoma GT-7000 has a claimed contrast ratio of 4,000:1, almost double of what was offered by its predecessor, raising the expectation that the black levels will now be more vivid and dynamic as compared to the GT-3000. The brightness level however is toned down to 1600 lumens from 2300 lumens, which merge rather flawlessly with the other specification to deliver a likeable image.

The aesthetics of the unit looks enhanced by the subtle changes that are carried here and there. Dimension wise it is still pretty much the same as the GT-3000, but wears a piano black finish that gives it a more classic and dynamic appearance. The speakers found on the GT-7000 are also very much the same to those found in its predecessor.

As mentioned earlier, the GT-7000 consists of an HDMI input, but gamers are in for some real treat as they stand to benefit from the presence of features such as component video port and a D-SUB PC input, as well as an S-Video port, and even, surprisingly, a 12V trigger output which will give you the leverage to automatically fire up a motorized screen.

Dell M209X Projector future Hinges on Dependability

kate — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 22:23:52 +0000

The latest projector from Dell, the M209X, is an extra dependable model. The projector is also rather inexpensive, and has a decent design that should appeal to you. The miniature dimensions of the device grant it a good deal of portability, which also adds to the product’s versatility.

The projector uses the contemporary digital light processing (DLP) technology to reflect light to each screen pixel, while high-fidelity colour reproduction is achieved by projecting light through a rotating colour wheel. This innovative arrangement achieves a contrast ratio that is higher than other contemporary 3LCD technology. The downside of the technology however lies in that it has slower refresh rates.

Connectivity of the unit is quite good, as it has a wide variety of input options at its disposal including VGA, HDMI, composite and S-video, which allows you the leverage to connect the projector to devices like computers, DVD players and other AV devices. You also get to have other important features like- audio in- and out-jacks in addition to a built-in, one-Watt speaker with the Dell M209X projector. The solitary Watt speakers however, cannot be taken as a remarkable addition considering that they make a lot of noise. The projector, then also comes equipped with a USB port that can be connected to a mouse to act its remote.

The image resolution capability of the projector stands at a not so impressive 1024×768 pixels. Moreover, the menu systems of the unit are another low point as they look messy and unimaginative.

BenQ Ultra Compact Portable CP220C DLP Projector is wooing Professionals

martin — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 11:53:56 +0000

BenQ Ultra has recently come up with a new light-weight projector specially designed to suit the requirements of the ever mobile professional. The portable device is also compactly built and equipped with a host of user-friendly and contemporary features, making it a no-nonsense addition to the company’s chequered product profile.

BenQ is a well established name as a digital network devices and DLP projector brand provider and the latest addition is sure to add to its band equity. The portable design of the BenQ CP220C ensures that you can conveniently carry the projector in a briefcase, or a carry bag allowing you the flexibility to give presentations on the move. Moreover, the flexibility quotient of the device is augmented by its unique off-and-go functionality, as it allows the projector to cool off rapidly, thereby saving precious time while moving it around.

The projector has a native resolution of XGA (1024 X 768) and is well assisted by an equally impressive brightness level of 2000 ANSI lumens and a high contrast ratio of 700:1. These specifications mean that you can be rest assured of having an upscaled picture quality that is delightfully bright and is also pretty crisp and clear at the same time. That’s not all as the projector has also been incorporated with the company’s much revered colour matching technology which elevates the picture quality to match those displayed on the notebook’s screen. Meanwhile, the world-class Carl Zeiss revamps the image for superior projection, delivering the best possible output. Problems that arise from incorrect angle is automatically checked and corrected by the real time Auto-Keystone technology without any manual intervention.

Infocus IN1100 DLP Portable Projector XGA 2100 ANSI: Taking Care of your Logistics

martin — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 11:23:41 +0000

The Infocus IN1100 DLP Portable Projector XGA 2100 ANSI signifies the perfect embodiment of a projector that incorporates a host of fascinating virtues like mobility, performance, and easy operation. The device with the acclaimed and on-board DisplayLink USB connectivity feature can be set up in a matter of seconds. Another fascinating feature is the filter-free DLP technology with BrilliantColour technology, which requires zero maintenance, and ensures that you have an uninterrupted sequence of high-definition images. Meanwhile, the lightweight and portable nature of the device, make it easy to move between floors and to travel with.

The unique colour technology helps the device to deliver consistent colour compatibility along with ample brightness. Moreover, colour reproduction on the Infocus IN1100 is virtually flawless with a great deal of realistic feel and natural hues. Brightness levels of device is static at 2200 lumens which in combination with a 1800:1 contrast ratio ensures that you get to view an image that is crisp, clear and vivid. The IN1100 DLP is game to WUXGA & 1080p high resolution content, and also offers XGA and WXGA native resolutions that will give you the leverage to display from 4:3 or 16:10 widescreen computers.

Video compatibility is again an impressive aspect of the projector and supports a wide range of contemporary formats including Full NTSC, PAL, SECAM, 480i, 576i, 480p, 576p, 720p, 1080i, and 1080p/60.

The input and output options are a bit on the lower side, which is understandable considering its portable nature. You don’t get features like HDMI, DVI, and BNC. Instead you are provided with other alternate features like Component (RCA), VESA (HD15), and S-Video, among others.

Optoma HD70 Projector: Ready to monopolise the Market

martin — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 14:37:03 +0000

The Optoma HD70 is not making waves for nothing, as it has enough ammunition in its arsenal to firmly establish its credentials. Aimed at the entry level projector market, the HD70 is a 720p-native DLP projector and comes at a very competitive price, which only adds to its desirability.

To start with the unit has a silent fan system. Once you switch on the Bright Mode “on”, the fan operates at full blast and measures 52dB from 6-inches away. The noise levels of the DLP projector come down even more drastically when you go for the Bright Mode ‘off’, and is just enough to be measurable on the Radio Shack SPL meter.

The contrast ratio by automatically adjusting the lamp output in accordance with the available luminance at the input at any given time. The feature apparently does the job of a “dynamic iris”, in that it facilitates the lamp to output less lumens when the scene is darker, and vice versa.

The Optoma projector has also been inscribed with the latest BrilliantColor Colour Processing technology, and plays a pivotal role in improving the image quality to high-definition levels. The feature adjusts the gamma settings of the unit so that colour combinations appear to be in sync to the given condition by effectively taking into account factors like lighting and brightness.

Other important specifications of the unit include a brightness level of 1000 ANSI lumens, contemporary image resolution of 1280×720, and an on/of contrast ratio4000:1. Connectivity of the unit is quite solid and includes an HDMI (w/HDCP) input, a dedicated ComponentVGA input (HD15), et al.