Sony Unveils Two LCD Business Projectors For Classrooms And Conference Rooms At Infocomm

Sony is introducing two LCD business projectors, models VPL-EX4 and VPL-ES4, designed for a range of commercial applications.

The new models are best suited for use in classrooms and conference rooms. A short focal-length lens allows large-screen projection from a very short distance, and low fan noise lets audiences concentrate on the speaker during lectures or presentations.

The 2100-lumen VPL-EX4 model has a native XGA resolution of 1024 by 768 and the 2200-lumen VPL-ES4 unit delivers SVGA resolution of 800 by 600. Each model features a 165-watt lamp.

“Since these projectors were designed primarily for education and business, they are very quiet, highly secure, and include a variety of interfaces,” said Jay Chung, Sony Electronics’ marketing manager for LCD projectors. “These features, combined with high brightness and image quality, make the new models ideal for classroom and conference room use. They are entry-level projectors with advanced projector capabilities.”

The VPL-EX4 and VPL-ES4 models are both 3LCD systems, with each projector featuring three high aperture 0.63-inch LCD panels.

“3LCD technology helps to make projected images brighter and more natural,” Chung said. “This type of system provides high light transmission, excellent color reproduction and smooth gradients in dark areas. It can even help to prevent color break-up.”

The short focal length lens on the new models makes it possible to project large images from a short distance. For example, an 80-inch image (viewable area, measured diagonally) can be projected from a distance of approximately 7.5 feet (2.3 meters).

Both models display images in about four seconds after being turned on. They both have a control panel key lock, as well as a password-authentication system and built-in security bar or Kensington™ lock to help prevent unauthorized use or theft.

A supplied card-type Remote Commander™ unit can be used to adjust such settings as digital zoom and audio volume or to activate Auto Pixel Alignment, picture muting, and picture freeze functions. The remote is also effective from several points in a room, since there are IR receivers located on both the front and rear of each projector.

With the addition of Sony’s new Dynamic Detail Enhancer (DDE), crisp and natural video images can be re-produced via 2-3 pull down processing.

The VPL-EX4 and VPL-ES4 models accept a range of standard- and high-definition video input signals, including composite, S-video (Y/C), and analog RGB/component via the HD D-sub 15 pin interfaces In addition, the units can accept computer signals from VGA up to SXGA+ (1400 by 1050).

The models also incorporate monitor output, a digital zoom (up to 4x), seven picture modes, dynamic detail enhancement for video signals, vertical keystone adjustment, multi language OSD, RS-232C control, and ceiling mount options.

Both models are available this month at suggested list prices of $1,030 (VPL-ES4) and $1,230 (VPL-EX4).