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3M MP410 and MP220 Mobile Projectors hands-on
3M has just unveiled a pair of new mobile projectors here at CES: the Mobile Projector MP410 and MP220. Both devices are notably small and compact: the MP410 measures just four inches in width and length, and stands just one inch tall, while the MP220 weighs in at less than one pound. The MP410 also features 1GB of memory, a microSD slot and USB port, and is capable of projecting 80-inch moving and still images at WXGA resolution, with a brightness of 300 lumens. The MP220, meanwhile, can beam up to 65-inch images onto any flat surface and comes packed with 2GB of memory, along with a brightness of up to 50 lumens. Both are slated to arrive in April, with the MP410 priced at $600 and the MP220 coming in at $480. We stopped by 3M's booth at Pepcom this evening to get a closer look at the devices, so check out our gallery below, or head past the break for the full PR.
LG eXpo Mobile Projector hands-on
As Windows Mobile 6.5 handsets go, LG's eXpo on AT&T is very near the cream of the crop -- it's got Snapdragon and a biometric scanner, after all -- but we all know that the spec sheet doesn't tell the whole story with this one. Really, people care about this phone because of the trick $179 pico projector that you can optionally bolt underneath. Besides being insanely cool, the concept makes sense considering the eXpo's target demographic -- business users probably want to be able to share documents and PowerPoints on the go, right? %Gallery-83710%
LitPhone projector phone, new pocket PJs surface in Hong Kong
Outside of Samsung's W7900 Show and a few nondescript prototypes, the projector phone sector has been largely stagnant. Thankfully, it seems at least one no-name company is looking to make a name for itself by developing yet another entrant. The LitPhone, designed and showcased by China's own SCT Optronics, is a GSM handset that sports CMMB TV tuning, a touchscreen and a built-in projector with an undisclosed native resolution. Furthermore, the company also demonstrated its USB-powered PCLit mobile projector at the Hong Kong Electronics Fair, which debuted alongside Join Technology's JP77 and WE3 Technology's WE8626. Have a glance at the whole bundle down in the read link -- just don't get those hopes too high about a US release date anytime soon.
MIT concocts wearable "sixth sense" device, Bruce Willis is like "what?"
We've nothing but respect for the researchers, engineers and all around brainacs that call MIT home, but unless our minds are simply too feeble to grasp the connection here, we can't figure how this "sixth sense" device actually relates to one of Bruce Willis' most well known films. At any rate, what we do have here is a wearable device that is comprised of a mobile projector, a webcam and a cellphone -- a package that was thrown together for around $300. Once strapped on, signals from the webcam and projector are relayed to internet-connected smartphones in order to project data onto basically any backdrop. Somehow, the device can even "take photographs if a user frames a scene with his or her hands, or project a watch face with the proper time on a wrist if the user makes a circle there with a finger." The actual hows and whys seem to be a mystery, but if we had just developed a gizmo as ripe for commercialization as this, we'd probably keep most of the secrets under wraps as well.[Via Blorge]
3M's MM200 micro projector seeks integration within cellphones, cameras
The MPro110 has picked up some pretty positive vibes in the burgeoning pico projector market, but 3M is already looking well beyond that. At this year's CES, the company is debuting the LCoS-based MM200, a micro projection engine that is destined to find its way into cellphones, handheld accessories and digital cameras of the future. Reportedly, the device can project a 50-inch image while only drawing a single watt of power, and best of all, it'll be "available for consumer purchase in 2009." Yeah, as in, this year. One more look is after the break.
LG shows off HS102 DLP mobile projector with built-in battery, DivX player
Pardon us while we lick our chops, but we're digging -- nay, loving -- LG's HS102. The finely tuned successor to the delectable HS101 boasts an 800 x 600 native resolution, 160 ANSI lumens, 2,000:1 contrast ratio, 4:3 / 16:9 output options, PhlatLight LED technology, and a built-in DivX player for good measure. On top of that, you'll also find an integrated rechargeable battery that'll keep things beaming for around two hours. It's said to be available now in South Korea for around ???670,000 ($555), and you can peep the read link for a few more images (including in-action shots).[Thanks, Jonathan]
Adapt's ADPP-100 pocket projector shown on video
Another week, another pocket projector sighting. In an attempt to get known before it gets buried by the hundreds of alternatives sure to pop up here in the coming months, Adapt has hosted a short video of its mX ADPP-100 mini projector. Said beamer features LCoS technology, a rechargeable battery, an SD card slot, inputs for "almost any device," and the ability to project a 50-inch image (however blurry) onto the wall. Not much else is known right now outside of that, but you can check it out in action just after the break.[Via AboutProjectors]
NEC announces NP41, NP64 mobile projectors
While it's possible they may one day all be replaced by pico projectors, so-called "mobile projectors" are still a mainstay for a good deal of presentation-delivering users out there, and NEC has just introduced two new models for their consideration. Weighing in at a luggable 3.5 pounds apiece, the new NP41 and NP64 DLP projectors each boast a standard 1024 x 768 resolution, along with a 1,600:1 contrast ratio, automatic keystone correction, VGA, RCA, and S-video inputs, and a promised 3,500 hours of lamp life in the projector's eco mode. The only difference between the two, it seems, is a brighter 3,000 lumens on the NP64, compared to 2,300 on the NP41. You'll also have to wait a bit longer to get your hands on the NP41, which will land in October for $999, while the NP61 will start shipping in September for $1,399.[Via Electronista]
NEC announces NP41, NP61 mobile projectors
While it's possible they may one day all be replaced by pico projectors, so-called "mobile projectors" are still a mainstay for a good deal of presentation-delivering users out there, and NEC has just introduced two new models for their consideration. Weighing in at a luggable 3.5 pounds apiece, the new NP41 and NP61 DLP projectors each boast a standard 1024 x 768 resolution, along with a 1,600:1 contrast ratio, automatic keystone correction, VGA, RCA, and S-video inputs, and a promised 3,500 hours of lamp life in the projector's eco mode. The only difference between the two, it seems, is a brighter 3,000 lumens on the NP61, compared to 2,300 on the NP41. You'll also have to wait a bit longer to get your hands on the NP41, which will land in October for $999, while the NP61 will start shipping in September for $1,399.[Via Electronista]
Samsung shows off M310 Ultra Mobile Pocket Imager projector
Nah, Samsung's M310 isn't nearly as diminutive as its MBP-100, but it's still quite the cutie. Hailed as an Ultra Mobile Pocket Imager, this DLP device features a 1,000:1 contrast ratio, 150 ANSI lumens, VGA input, SVGA native resolution and a pleasantly small footprint. Mum's the word on an official price / release date, but we've all ideas this is one case where more won't cost less.[Via AboutProjectors]
Aurora apes Moto's ways, intros LAZR IMAGR micro LCD
We've no idea who whispered in Aurora Systems' ear that naming your products sans a few letters and with caps lock on was a good idea, but nevertheless, it listened, and it listened good. First up, the firm is cranking out the LAZR IMAGR, which is hailed as a "single panel color field sequential device" (psst, a micro LCD) designed to get VGA resolution into mobile projectors and the like. In case that wasn't enough, you'll be thrilled to know that it's also trumpeting its new LAZR DRIVR, which, contrary to popular belief, actually isn't Tiger's latest club of choice. Rather, it's a chipset designed to "drive both VGA and SVGA resolution panels" while also enabling memory to be "embedded in the driver chip to limit total chipset power consumption." Sounds pretty spiffy, huh? Or are you still stuck on the names? [Via AboutProjectors]
Toshiba aims TLP-WX2200U projector at educators, suits
Toshiba is hoping that even folks relying on a projector for business purposes still want to sneak it home after 5, and judging by the decent specs bestowed upon the TLP-WX2200U, this one looks to fit that mold. The 6.2-pound 3LCD machine touts a 1,280 x 800 native resolution, 2,200 ANSI lumens, a 600:1 contrast ratio, Tosh's Natural Color Enhancer3 color correction circuitry, automatic vertical keystone correction, VGA in / out, an internal speaker, and a wireless remote as well. Notably, Toshiba's newest PJ will only run you $999, and those who get their orders in now should see it about "one to two weeks."[Via LetsGoMobile, thanks David]
InFocus Work Big IN10 DLP micro projector
Continuing to expand the Work Big lineup, InFocus' latest addition could be easily overlooked. Those with little room to spare in the suit will appreciate the 2.4-pound "palm-sized" design, and the DLP technology, 1,800 ANSI lumens, and XGA native resolution ought to do those PowerPoints proud. The Work Big IN10 works natively at 4:3, sports an 1,100:1 contrast ratio and onboard 1.3:1 zoom lens, is compatible with NTSC and PAL signals, and touts a lamp life of nearly 4,000 hours. Additionally, the integrated one-watt speaker and DVI / S-Video / composite input assortment should handle the most basic of setups, but this bundle of corporate joy will run you a stiff $1,249 when it lands in August.
Epson's EMP-X5, EMP-822 3LCD projectors disregard cool down time
Epson is playing the 3LCD card yet again in the EMP-X5 and XMP-822 projectors, but rather than hashing out specs we're all too familiar with, the firm stepped it up by including a "one touch off" feature that eliminates the need for a time consuming cool down process before wrapping things up. Both units maintain a small stature and weigh in at around six-pounds, sport VGA resolutions, and share 400:1 contrast ratios. The EMP-X5 musters 2,200 ANSI lumens, touts a "sliding lens cap," and automatic keystone distortion adjusting, while the EMP-822 (pictured after the break) jumps to 2,600 ANSI lumens, includes a few more inputs, rocks a built-in speaker, and offers up a "direct shutdown" feature to make grab 'n go presentations a breeze. These little fellows aren't exactly aimed at the budget-minded set, mind you, as the time-saving shutdown features will run you ¥198,000 ($1,670) on the EMP-822, while the lesser-spec'd sibling is still waiting for a price to call its own.[Via Impress]
TI showcases diminutive DLP pico-projector
If anyone doubted Texas Instruments' sincerity in taking the mobile projection world by storm, now would probably be a good time to start boiling some crow. Making good on its wishes to cram DLP into even the most minuscule of locations, the company will be demonstrating its newfangled DLP pico-projector to select media groups, and apparently, those interested in taking a peek better have a front row seat. The mini projector will supposedly "fit in your fingertips," but beyond that vague descriptor, we're not exactly sure about the hard measurements. Notably, it appears that TI's wee PJ could act as a standalone unit "or as an integrated component in a mobile device," which would definitely spruce up current smartphone offerings. Sadly, there wasn't an estimated timeframe as to when we'd (barely) see these devices crammed into cellphone enclosures, but it's just a matter of time before we're streaming live television shows and simultaneously beaming 'em up for all of the subway car to see.
Neochroma mobile projector blows up cellphone screens
Micro and mobile projectors aren't exactly fresh goods anymore, but Neochroma Ltd. is looking to bring a simplified approach to getting big screen action out of your diminutive LCD. Rather than concocting some new proprietary cable or force you to rock a gaudy head-mounted display, the Viewmaster-esque Neochroma prototype simply requires users to place their (preferably clamshell) mobile's screen atop the mirror-packed device, and then the internal magic does the rest. Unfortunately, details about its inner workings are scant, but we do know that the finalized design should measure around 4- x 2- x 1.2-inches, utilize stereoscopic technology, and sport a viewing angle "roughly equal that of a 19-inch monitor at a 30-inch viewing distance." While already tested with Sharp's VGA-rockin' 904SH, we've no idea what future phones will indeed be "Neochroma-ready," but if these guys and gals keep their word, we'll be seeing all we can handle "within two years."[Via Textually]
Microvision unveils tiny projector for mobile devices
There are monstrous projectors, run-of-the-mill renditions, small versions, and then there's ridiculously tiny ones, but we've got love for 'em all. It looks like Microvision tends to favor the diminutive kind, however, as the company is looking to showcase its "ultrathin, miniature full-color projection display" at next week's CES. Hoping to cram this bad boy into your next mobile phone, PDA, or other handheld gizmo, the firm is touting its incredibly small form factor as the next coming of mobile displays. Taking up the same amount of space as Apple's 2G Shuffle, the display can project "extremely sharp and vivid" imagery onto walls, bodies, screens, or skyscrapers, with a maximum image size "similar to a big screen plasma TV." Sure, we're fully aware of the sensationalism they're tossing in, but this type of development could refine mobile video and the ability to view it on a decent sized screen, so hopefully we'll catch a glimpse of this miniscule PJ in just a few days.[Via Uber-Review]
Toshiba intros uber-cheap TDP-S35U DLP projector
If you're guilty on numerous counts of projector envy, and don't feel like sharpening up your DIY skills to build your own rig, Toshiba has finally unveiled an option that just may cure your coveting. The TDP-S35U takes a small step down in specs from it's T45U counterpart, but manages to take a nosedive in the oh-so-critical price department. Sporting a silver case adequate for any board / living room scenario, the 6.6-pound mobile projector rocks an SVGA resolution, 2000:1 contrast ration, 2000 ANSI lumens, DLP technology, and a wireless remote to boot. The selection of ports aren't too shabby either, as it manages to boast dual VGA inputs, composite / S-Video connectors, audio inputs / outputs, and a VGA passthrough to forward the signal onto an additional display. Most importantly, however, the TDP-S35U can deliver that big screen delectation for just $699 when begins shipping later this month.
