Digital Projectors: Taking The Show On the Road

I looked at three such models from InFocus (LP120), Philips (BCool XG1) and ViewSonic (PJ250). Although the Philips model is my top pick of the three, all of them offer something for taking your show on the road. VARs that support mobile users will want to take a look at these ultralight projectors and stock them. They are high-value items that carry a big wow, not to mention utility, factor.

To start with, all three models are bright enough in light output to be viewable in a conference room that is illuminated with fluorescent lights. The Philips model is the brightest at 1,700 lumens, while the InFocus model is the lightest. Each unit requires a special adapter cable to connect to the standard VGA display adapters that come with almost all laptops.

Clearly, another popular use for these projectors is working with a standard TV image, and all three support at least RCA video connectors. Some models come with specialized cables to work with TV signals--the InFocus unit uses a special adapter, and the ViewSonic has a mini-plug to connect to an RCA converter.

In my tests, I connected a variety of Macintosh and Windows laptops to the projectors and took informal polls of my VARBusiness co-workers on image quality and usability. With all units, the goal was to be up and running with minimal fuss and configuration controls. I found all three units fairly easy to set up. In addition, all the projectors have a wide array of on-screen menus and controls, including the ability to zoom into the center of the image, autoformat for various display resolutions and switch among assorted video inputs.

The InFocus, Philips and ViewSonic models include small speakers and audio cables, but because most laptops today come with audio gear and better speakers, I don't recommend bothering with the projector's audio gear. Finally, the projectors can connect to a laptop via USB cables so you can use the remote to advance PowerPoint slides. Again, I don't think this feature is all that convenient, and it just means you have to tote around yet one more cable.

All three projectors come with carrying cases of varying quality and bulkiness, but you'll most likely end up wrapping the unit in a couple of shirts and taking it as part of your overall technology bag.

The biggest stumbling block for these units is price (see "Projector Features," below). One feature that isn't worth the bother is InFocus' LiteShow module. This contains a wireless PC card and software to connect to Windows and Macs (running OS X only) with wireless LAN adapters. I couldn't get it to work with two different wireless units, so I wouldn't recommend it just yet.

But given the portability and features of these projectors, it may be worth paying the higher price tag in order to shed some pounds and bulk.