Epson Debuts Classroom and High-Def Projectors
Epson has introduced several new LCD projectors, including several sub-$800 multimedia classroom models and a new high-light-output HD model that blasts 6,000 lumens in color and white light output.
Sub-$800 Classroom Projectors
Among the new lineup are three new classroom projectors--the PowerLite S7, PowerLite 79, and PowerLite W7--all coming in below $800.
The high-end model of the bunch, the PowerLite W7, offers a WXGA (1,280 x 800) resolution and a brightness of 2,200 lumens. The PowerLite S7 is an SVGA projector (800 x 600) with a brightness of 2,300 lumens. The PowerLite 79 is an XGA projector (1,024 x 768) with a brightness rating of 2,200 lumens.
Features common to all of the projectors include:
- Closed captioning support;
- E-TORL lamp technology for up to 4,000 hours of lamp life;
- USB plug and play compatibility computer-free presentations;
- Keystone correction (no specifics announced);
- 1.35x digital zoom on the PowerLite S7 and 1.2x optical zoom on the PowerLite 79 and W7; and
- "A/V Mute mode" for instant pausing and instant muting.
All of the models weigh in at 5.1 pounds.
The PowerLite S7, PowerLite 79, and PowerLite W7 are expected to be available in October 2009. The PowerLite S7 will sell for $549; the PowerLite 79 will sell for $649; and the PowerLite W7 will come in at $749.
The High-Light-Output PowerLite Pro Z8000WUNL
Epson also introduced the PowerLite Pro Z8000WUNL, the company's brightest projector to date. It offers a brightness of 6,000 lumens, a contrast ratio of 5,000:1, and a resolution of 1,920 x 1,200 (WUXGA).
The PowerLite Pro Z8000WUNL is aimed at larger venues in education, such as lecture halls, theaters, or multipurpose rooms. It features liquid cooling, a dual lamp design, and (according to Epson) easy access to amps and filters. Other features include:
- Keystone correction (±30 degrees horizontal and ±10 degrees vertical);
- Six optional lenses;
- A rear projection option;
- LAN connectivity;
- Closed captioning support; and
- Monitoring and control capabilities.
The PowerLite Pro Z8000WUNL will ship in September 2009. Pricing has not been announced.
The Wireless PowerLite 1925W
Epson also introduced the PowerLite 1925W, a networkable WXGA projector offering a brightness of 4,000 lumens and a contrast ratio of 2,000:1. Some of its other features include:
- Wired and wireless network connectivity;
- Powered zoom and focus;
- USB-based projection;
- Wireless projection (wireless audio and video transfer);
- Computer-free presentation via USB;
- Screen Fit function for resizing an image to match a screen; and
- Remote monitoring and setup.
The PowerLite 1925W will be available in the fall. No further information was available at press time.
Classroom Presentation System
In other Epson news, the company also introduced a new classroom A/V system called PowerLite Presenter. PowerLite Presenter is designed to allow educators to present video and audio (including DVDs) using just a single device. It includes a WXGA-resolution, 2,500-lumen LCD projector; 10-watt virtual surround sound speakers (two); an integrated DVD player; and microphone input. It's expected to be available in October 2009 for $899.
Al of the new products are available through Epson's Brighter Futures program or education institutions. Further information on all of Epson's new projectors and A/V systems can be found here.