This new projector is the successor to the GP2, and BenQ claims it comes with improved brightness and better contrast. The GP3 can also project images up to 160 inches in diagonally, and it has a 2-watt built-in speaker, although it most likely won’t do the trick in a slightly larger room, so a pair of external speakers may come in handy in this case.

Of course, though, the main new feature on this palm-sized projector is the iPhone dock (using the older 30-pin connection). However, if you don’t have an iPhone, the projector offers several other ways to hook up media to the device, including plugging in a flash drive and microSD card, as well as wirelessly streaming content from another mobile device or PC.

There’s also 2GB of storage tucked inside in case a flash drive or microSD card is too much for you, although that probably won’t be enough for a couple of movies, but an album-full of photos would be the perfect fit. The internal battery is said to last 2.5 hours, which will get you through at least a movie and some, so be prepared to take the charger along with you. The GP3 is expected to ship later this month, but no pricing details have been disclosed yet.

Perceptive pixels has been shipping these large-scale displays since mid-2011 but what makes this one special is the outer layer on the screen. This prototype device represents the largest touch display to feature Corning Gorilla Glass, adding Corning’s thin, visually stunning and durable glass to the world’s largest projected capacitive flat-panel display technology.

With Perceptive’s class-leading technology and Corning’s new Gorilla Glass 2 measuring just 2mm thick they are able to make these entire screens just 6 inches in depth. Adding the strengthened glass from Corning allows these panels to be used in a wide array of situations and horizontal positions. You can see right on video the demonstrator uses the stylus with force and near the end even punches the display to demonstrate the strength from the glass –something that will surely protect these expensive screens from impact damage.

For more information regarding Gorilla Glass 2 check out our timeline below for the details. In the future we can expect even more from both of these companies as things progress.

With these glasses you’ll be able to see content including internet with a web browser, movies, TV and video games. What we see here is moving images that can be seen by me with the glasses on and not by anyone else around me as I’m viewing. The actual technology is in the boxes on the outsides of the lenses, one for each temple: OE-32 Optical Engine modules to project 720p resolution in 3D received through HDMI.

What they’re saying here is that what we’re seeing is the equivalent of an 87-inch screen from a distance of 10 feet, essentially no matter what you’re looking at. In reality it’s an image that’s certainly displayed in front of you in a way that’s not headache-inducing, believe it or not. Your demo man here is someone who isn’t a friend of 3D, not in tablets, not on televisions, and certainly not right in the face, but this wasn’t that bad. In fact, it was downright enjoyable to look at, especially since they had corrective lenses in a box to correct for this fellow’s terrible, terrible eyes.

Many pico projectors or too dim or weak, or don’t have long batteries that last through an entire presentation. Yes there are much brighter options available but not portable and battery-powered. This is one of the smallest and most portable projectors around while offering great brightness and a battery that should last through an entire presentation. With the AAXA P4 all you need is your laptop and the projector and you can take your presentation anywhere you go.

The AAXA P4 Pico Projector is powered by a 750MHz Windows CE mobile processor, and is plenty bright too. It gets an 80 lumen high-contrast optical engine by way of Texas Instruments DLP. It features AAXA’s vibrant color technology and the LED should last for 15,000 hours. Some of the other specs that make the P4 special include: 2GB of built-in memory, 1280×800 VGA input, microSD slot for extra storage, composite video input, 1-watt speaker, 3.5mm headphone jack, 720p video support, and support for 3rd party apps like Office Mobile and other Windows CE apps.

The new P4 projector is a big step up from the older P2 or other options from AAXA and is available now, priced at $399. It is currently on sale for just $339 and can be found right here.

The agreement at hand will have Vuzix performing research and development for see-through waveguide optics and near-eye display systems for products for their own line, but will also have Nokia able to access these products and components for use in their OWN products. Could this mean that MeeGo will go into my goggles in no time? Nokia, listen to Paul Travers, Vuzix President and CEO, and see the future for Nokia worldwide!

“Integrate this Nokia technology with Vuzix’s advanced display engine developments with partners like Fraunhofer IPMS, and we expect to be able to offer the video glasses that Hollywood and Sci-Fi writers have only been able to imagine.” – Travers

For those of you that’ve never heard of Vuzix before, you’re in for a treat. We’ve got more than a couple stories surrounding their wild video-glasses past and even have a lovely video showing off one of their more live concepts in action. You can see the Vuzix Wrap 1200VR video glasses on the market right now, the same being true of the Vuzix WRAP 920AR augmented reality glasses, and you can check out our Vuzix portal for all the awesome glasses technology your heart can handle as well. Then we’ve got the Vuzix STAR 1200 augmented reality headset hands-on video right here, straight from IFA 2011. A far cry from the ol’ 920AR set from back at CES 2010. Have a peek at the STAR 1200s here:

The Light Touch projector transforms the usually static image created by a projector into interactive multimedia content using Light Blue Optics’ proprietary holographic laser projection technology.  The device can project a virtual 10-inch interactive display onto any surface and the integrated infra-red touch sensing system enables users to interact with the virtual image in the same way they would use a handheld touchscreen device.

The device is set to be showcased in an invite-only event on Thursday, January 7th at CES.  LBO also announced a list of global companies working with the Company to bring its unique projection technology to market; Adobe, CSR, Foxconn, Interbrand, Microsoft, Micron, Nichia, Photop, Opnext and Toshiba.  It comes equipped with 2GB of onboard Flash memory and has a Micro SD card slot for up to 32GB of storage, running wall-powered or battery-operated, with a run-time of two hours before recharging is required.  The Light Touch certainly looks very interesting, but there are no details on pricing or availability yet.

Compared to the MPro110, its first-gen predecessor, the MPro120 is larger and better put together. It also gains a voice – in the shape of integrated stereo speakers – and a chunkier battery, promising around four hours of runtime versus the 110′s measly single hour. In terms of design, the 120 is far more visually appealing, too, with a matte-finish plastic case bisected by a glossy button strip. Hardware controls include power, brightness, battery status and volume, together with a firm but not too tricky focus dial up front by the lens.

Underneath there’s a standard tripod bush for use with either the included bendy-legged mini-tripod or your own, together with a neat flip-down stand that can be used for more impromptu setups where you just want to angle the MPro120 up slightly. On the back there’s the DC power input – the Li-Poly battery can be charged and the MPro120 used simultaneously – and the A/V port. 3M supply various adapters for the AC plug, suitable for travelling, together with both a composite video cable for use with a standard source (plus RCA converters so you can plug, say, an iPod A/V output cable directly into the MPro120) and a VGA adapter cable for plugging in a notebook or netbook.

Setup is straightforward, and instantly benefits from both the better quality build and the new optics. The focus dial is less prone to drift than on other pico projectors we’ve used, but doesn’t go so far to the other extreme that it’s impossible to tweak without jerking the MPro120 all around the table. Meanwhile the new LCoS (liquid-crystal on silicon) optics require less space in order to create a bigger picture, so you’ll see a larger 640 x 480 VGA-sized projection than the MPro110 at the same distance. You might lack the resolution of a 32-inch HDTV, but you can readily achieve the scale in a smallish room, making the MPro120 ideal for hotel rooms and the like.

With a mere 0.5W from each stereo channel, the MPro120′s speakers aren’t exactly setting out to knock you off your feet. There’s no 3.5mm headphone socket, but given 3M haven’t granted the pico an onboard media player, as on some of the rival projectors we’ve seen, that’s not likely to be too much of an issue. Sound quality, though, is pretty loud all things considered, and while at the top end there’s increasing amounts of distortion, the MPro120 does a decent job keeping up with film soundtracks.

Also keeping up is the new battery, which offers two power settings. If you want to get close to 3M’s four hour prediction you’ll need to leave the MPro120 in “normal brightness” and play it cool with the speaker volume; “high brightness” mode, meanwhile, will drain the pico in half the time. Still, we came close to 3M’s suggested times in both settings, either of which is enough for a good few episodes of your favorite TV show download or even a feature film. Since you can run the MPro120 while recharging it – something sadly lacking in some rivals – battery life needn’t be an issue if you’re near an AC point.

Sample shot:

Despite a mere 12 lumens of brightness and its limited resolution, the MPro120 puts up a decent fight. Presentations lack some clarity around smaller text, but faster moving scenes and bright colors are both handled well. Darker colors and areas of strong shadow continue to be a problem, with murky greys more likely than true inky blackness, but it’s certainly ahead of many other picos.

At $350, though, it’s still priced as a luxury, and one we reckon few will be able to justify. What’s hopeful is the fact that the MPro120 is light-years ahead of its predecessor, and yet the pico manufacturers are still telling us that technologies like LCoS – as well as other systems – are still in their infancy. We won’t see 1080p any time soon, but it’s not beyond the realms of possibility to expect twice the resolution offered by the MPro120 in devices arriving next year. Still, if you want a pico projector that’s capable of both notebook content and A/V, with impressive battery performance and build quality to the point where you’re happy to dump it in your laptop bag and not worry it will have fallen apart, the 3M MPro120 projector ticks all our boxes.

3M MPro120 Unboxing and walkthrough video:

3M MPro120 Sample videos:

You can blow the image up to 120-inches. It sports a contrast ratio of 4,000:1 and also has a 1,700 lumens of brightness. Other features include two HDMI ports, as well as a VGA connection.

Analog connectors are also included such as RCA and component for added flexibility. We don’t have a release date for the Optoma HD20 yet, but the $999 price tag is certainly enticing.

That new networking functionality means that the projector can be remotely managed from Hitachi’s Projector Control Application and Projector Messenger Application.  These allow for remote source control, real-time status feedback, scheduling, synchronization of multiple projectors and the ability to display real-time or stored text messages for using the CP-X3010N as a virtual message board.

Bulb life is rated at 3,000 hours in standard mode or 6,000 hours in eco mode, with the latter boasting quiet operation noise of just 29dBA.  No word on pricing or availability as yet.

Press Release:

Hitachi Leads The Way In Networking Technology With Introduction Of CP-X3010N 3LCD Projector

– New CP-X3010N 3LCD Projector And New Software Updates Highlight Hitachi’s Leadership Position In Networking Innovation –

CHULA VISTA, California, August 3, 2009 — Hitachi Home Electronics (America), Inc., Business Group, continues to lead the way in providing end-users with networking capabilities with the introduction of the new CP-X3010N 3LCD projector. Hitachi addresses the growing demand for networking technology with tools that lower the total cost of ownership as a result of added convenience, security and ease of operation.

“With the CP-X3010N being the networkable counterpart to the CP-X3010, Hitachi offers networking options for projectors of all sizes and applications,” said John Glad, product manager, Hitachi Home Electronics (America), Inc., Business Group. “In addition, with a variety of network-related functions proprietary to Hitachi, our networking capabilities are renowned in the industry.”

The CP-X3010N offers unmatched performance and convenience, with a brightness of 3,000 lumens, a 2000:1 contrast ratio and networking capability. The CP-X3010N features 16 Watts of built-in audio, eliminating the need for external speakers, while maintaining a low noise rating of 29 dBA in Eco Mode. Additionally, the CP-X3010N features a long lamp life of 3,000 hours in Standard Mode and 6,000 hours in Eco Mode.

The CP-X3010N also features Hitachi’s proprietary My Buttons functionality, allowing two programmable buttons on the projector to execute any projector command. The CP-X3010N also offers input Source Naming, allowing users to rename input sources to fit their needs. Closed Captioning functionality is also available with the CP-X3010N.

Alongside the introduction of the CP-X3010N, is the release of Hitachi’s Projector Management Application (PJMan) Version 7. This proprietary technology provides the functionality to control, diagnose and manage an individual or group of Hitachi projectors from a single location. The ability to produce queries and reports in real time is a new feature of this latest version, providing AV/IT managers with the ability to gather real-time and historical data to analyze projector usage and produce call tickets. PJMan’s advanced email, report and scheduling capabilities contribute to the lowest cost of ownership in the industry.

Additionally, Hitachi’s Projector Control Application (PJCtrl) allows a user to control the functions of their Hitachi Projector through a toolbar on their desktop or laptop PC. Since all of the functions for controlling the projector are on the PC, PJCtrl helps to reduce costs associated with lost remote controls and battery replacement.

Users can control up to five of the same Hitachi projectors simultaneously and can be customized to suit the user’s individual preferences and needs with PJCtrl. It also has an advanced control menu that is ideal for installation and maintenance. Depending on the projector model, users can control Hitachi projectors via a direct RJ-45 connection, an 802.11 b/g wireless connection, or an external Ethernet-to-Serial device.

With the importance of campus security, Hitachi’s proprietary My Image functionality allows AV/IT administrators to transfer still images, such as emergency alerts, from a PC to each projector on the network. When the My Image function is utilized, the images are automatically displayed on all the projectors, including the projectors that are not in use at the time. This is ideal for applications in which multiple projectors are networked across a large space, such as a school, campus or large corporate environment. My Image is ideal for sending presentation images ahead to a projector, sending morning announcements to rooms on campus or sending important notifications.

Also, Hitachi’s Projector Messenger Application (“PJMessenger”) software allows an administrator to send real-time (or stored) text messages that appear on the screen of the projector. This is ideal for sending campus wide announcements and important notifications. When used in conjunction with the scheduling function, notifications can be shown at preset times, making each screen a virtual message board.

To lend credibility to the magazine’s speculation, they revealed the full specifications of the Nikon D300S and D3000 on their publication date of July 25th, five days in advance of the DSLRs official announcement.  They also suggest that the LED pico-projector components are supplied by FoxLink, a Taiwanese company previously linked with putting pico components into mobile phones.

The Nikon VP650 is expected to be announced this month, with a release predicted for September.  No word on what sort of price tag it might carry, nor if VP650 will be the final model name or simply the internal codename.

[via CrunchGear]

In fact, the 1,700mAh rechargeable battery is only good for 35 minutes use; for any longer, you’ll need to add an optional external battery which will be available in either 70 or 180 minute capacities.  They’ll obviously boost the P2′s 4.3 x 2.3 x 1 inch size and 260g weight.

AAXA are quoting contrast of 1,000:1 and up to an 80-inch image, with stereo 1W speakers and connectivity including a 3.5mm composite A/V port, miniUSB for recharging and a 3.5mm headphone socket, along with the VGA port.  We reviewed the P2′s predecessor, the AAXA P1 back in April.

The AAXA P2 pico-projector is available to pre-order now, priced at $349.

[via PicoProjector-info]

This means you can actually use the projector in a room that has normal lights on. It doesn’t have to be dimmed. It also has VGA and DVI inputs, allowing you to connect to old and new computers, alike.

Other inputs include Ethernet and RCA. It has a 1.2X zoom lens, which isn’t much but for the price, it’s pretty good. Other features include automatic color adjustment and whiteboard mode. You can get the Canon LV-7275 next month for $999.

In fact you can happily listen to audio and watch video on the MBP200 itself, but you’ll be missing out.  The 110 x 49 x 19mm box is capable of projecting up to a 50-inch 480 x 320 image, and in addition to pictures and videos can show MS Office documents such as PowerPoint presentations.

In addition to its onboard storage there’s a microSD slot content with up to 16GB cards, plus a 3.5mm stereo output for audio and an input for external video sources.  The controls are touch-sensitive and the whole thing weighs around 140g.

The Samsung MBP200 is on sale in Germany now, with an MRSP of €499 ($695).  Live photos of the projector here.

[via PicoProjector-info]

Video demo after the cut

The kit is supplied by German firm G&P Optoelectronics, and there’s a variety of different options depending on what sort of resolution you’re after and what inputs you need.  Maxi’s system has not only DVI and HDMI inputs but S-video and VGA, and the lamp used costs €20 ($28) so even if you leave it on 24/7 and burn it out in short order, you won’t bankrupt yourself.

Maxi’s video below shows the different stages involved, and while the DIY guide is in German it’s also full of pictures so even those who can’t understand the words should get somewhere.  Anyone thinking of building their own HD projector?

[via Hacked Gadgets]

The system consists of two components.  First, the reference-quality 3-chip DLP projector unit itself, which boasts 35,000:1 contrast ratio, 3,000 ANSI lumens of brightness and 1080p visuals.  Then there’s the rack-mountable control module and video processor, with 10-bit video processing, high-definition scaling and deinterlacing, and an integrated display showing brightness, contrast, gamma, signal type and other settings.

Electronic House found the Grand Cinema CX3 performed well with both broadcast HD and recorded content.  Colors are particularly praised, being “rich and vibrant” as well as “very natural and realistic”.  In fact the only real drawback is, unsurprisingly, the price.

There’s also a full remote control, 170 lumen brightness and an LED lamp rated for up to 30,000 hours usage.  Twin 1W speakers handle stereo sound, though probably aren’t something you’d like to listen to a whole feature-film on.  Unfortunately there’s no sign of a battery, so it looks like the P410M is mains-only.

While there’s no confirmation at the moment, the P410M looks suspiciously like the Samsung PhlatLight prototype projector we saw back in June 2008.  Then, production models were tipped before the end of the year, but its obviously taken a little longer to get this Samsung out of the door.

Video demo after the cut 

The 35 laser modules are arrayed in a 5 x 7 matrix, slotted into basic PCB board.  Each is wired up to a microcontroller – in this case a PIC16F722, though an Arduino would do nicely too – via five 8-bit latches.  The software on the iPhone communicates via the serial port, and lets you type in a sentence and have it automatically mapped into different laser layouts. 

One suggestion is to swap the cheap lasers – which cost $0.40 each on eBay – for something more powerful, and use the iPhone as a portable projector to paint slogans on buildings.  Not much use for enjoying impromptu mini-cinema-style movies, but a cool hack all the same.

[via MAKE]

In fact, it can project 100-inch images from only 23.6-inches away! That makes for a 0.28 throw ratio. And then you only need 37 inches between the projector and screen for a 150-inch image. This would make for the ultimate convenience in projection video-watching, because you could essentially put the projector anywhere in the room.

Specs include 7,000 lumens of brightness, a three-panel DLP system, concave mirror projection, an ultra-short focus lens group and more. The brightness is actually the highest available in the world and is due to a laser light source. However, the projector is very large measuring in at 93.3″ x 20″ x 24.8″. No word on pricing or availability, but we’re definitely keeping our eye on this one.

[via Ubergizmo]

Connections include HDMI, DVI-D, VGA, BNC x5 (RGBHV and VIDEO/Y-Pb/Cb-Pr/Cr), S-Video, USB and ethernet.  There’s also a VGA monitor-out port, and a serial port for systems integration.  Sanyo’s optional Wireless HD system slots into the expansion port.  This can funnel 1080i or 720p HD video from 30m away.

The Sanyo PDG-DHT100L will begin shipping this month, priced at $21,995 for the body; the lens is sold separately.  As for the optical HD data Wireless Transmitter, that will go for $1,895, while the HD data Wireless Receiver Board (without which the transmitter isn’t much use) is $895.

Press Release:

Sanyo introduces high brightness, true HD DLP projector with “Picture-By-Picture” capability

CHATSWORTH, CA. — March 10, 2009 — SANYO, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of LCD and DLP projectors adds the PDG-DHT100L, a professional class 1080p native resolution single chip DLP® projector, to their broad line-up of projectors. Key features include a dual lamp system that allows for increased light output and user changeable twin color wheel system that increases color reproduction and light output efficiency and SANYO’s Active Maintenance Filter for extended maintenance cycles. The projector is also compatible with SANYO’s exclusive Uncompressed HD Data Wireless Transmission System, which is available as an option.

The PDG-DHT100L is the brightest of its class with an incredible 6,500 lumens, and is compatible with a Full HD (1920 X 1080) signal. Contributing to the increased light output efficiency, the PDG-DHT100L is outfitted with two 330-watt HP bulbs and a twin color wheel system. The high brightness projector answers a growing need for projectors to perform in brighter environments, particularly for theaters, auditoriums, or large lecture halls.

“The two-lamp PDG-DHT100L is perfect for brightly lit rooms wanting the best in graphics, video or both together,” says Mark Holt, the Vice President and General Manager for SANYO’s Presentation Technologies Division. “Moreover, it’s practically maintenance free with our latest optical engine, 24/7 lamp interval function and exclusive AMF system that controls dust automatically. Plus the picture-by-picture and picture-in-picture capability makes this the perfect projector for any size venue.”

The PDG-DHT100L has a twin color wheel system that offers increased color reproduction and light output efficiency, and comes with two different user-changeable color wheels that are optimized for either high brightness or rich color reproduction. The projector ships with the color wheel that is optimized for higher brightness. A second color wheel that is optimized for rich color reproduction is included in the package. Either of these color wheels can be easily changed for intended applications by users. Also, a built-in Color Matching function corrects variations in color reproduction when using more than one projector for edge blending applications.

The projector is also equipped with a new, dust-resistant sealed optical engine and the Industry’s longest lasting*** 25,000 hour-use Active Maintenance Filter. The sealed optical engine prevents dust build-up, while maintaining optimal brightness and contrast. These problems have traditionally been difficult to overcome, causing reductions in projection quality. The AMF system automatically detects airflow and advances clean filter material as needed. The integration of the new optical engine and the AMF system prevents dust from entering the lamp area and allows enough airflow to keep the projector cool at all times. The increased dust resistance and longer lasting filters promote extended durability and reliability.

SANYO’s 24/7 Lamp Interval Function
The lamp interval function can be used to automatically switch the lamp that is turned on to an alternate lamp after a certain period of time in order to reduce the initial lamp deterioration. A user can select from [Off/Auto/200h/500h/1000h/2000h] or a 24-hour interval time, and rotate each lamp for extended 24/7 usage.

The PDG-DHT100L offers an edge blending function that allows for boundary-less images with multi-image display possibilities. It is also capable of projecting two images simultaneously, either using its built-in picture-in-picture mode or picture-by-picture mode.

The projector is compatible with SANYO’s Uncompressed HD Data Wireless Transmission System, which can project high definition (1080i or 720p) images over long distances without wires. This optional upgrade allows pure uncompressed data transmissions without sync delays between video and sound. The wireless system allows video transmissions from a distance as much as 30 meters** approx. 100 feet away from the input source. This is particularly useful for large event halls and other large rooms or theaters, as it eliminates the need to feed cables and run wires from sources to projectors.

The advanced lens function with power vertical/horizontal lens shift plus a 360-degree vertical tilt, allows the projector to be positioned almost anywhere, including the ceiling or the floor.
Other Specifications:
• Native resolution: True HD 1920 x 1080 (UXGA dot resizing possible)
• Contrast Ratio: 7,500:1
• Brightness (typical): 6,500 ANSI lumens
• Screen Size: Minimum 50″, maximum 600″
• Uniformity: 90%
• Video inputs: HDMI, DVI-D (w/HDCP), Mini D-sub 15, BNC x5 (RGBHV, VIDEO/Y-Pb/Cb-Pr/Cr), S-video
• Monitor out: D-Sub 15
• Serial Port: D-sub 9 (in & out)
• Communications: USB, RJ45
• Expansion slot allows for a variety of optional upgrades including wireless HD

The PDG-DHT100L will ship in March ’09 and sell for $21,995 (lens sold separately). The optical HD data Wireless Transmitter (POA-HDTM01) is $1,895.00, with the $895.00 HD data Wireless Receiver Board (POA-MD26HDWL).
** Actual Distance is dependent of a variety of environmental conditions
***As of the time of initial sales on March 2009 (Based on JIS D-0207 accelerated testing environment conditions)

About the SANYO Uncompressed HD Data Wireless Transmission System
This system is based on advanced wireless transmission technology that achieves both high definition/resolution video quality and long-distance transmission. There are primarily two types of wireless transmission video signals. First is the type that compresses video as it comes out from the original signal and then transfers the data. The second type, which is the system SANYO has adopted, leaves the video uncompressed and transmits the untouched data. There is no signal degradation with uncompressed transmissions. Also, there is no inherent delay in the uncompressed format as there was no intermediary step (i.e. compression) needed to prepare the video for wireless transmission.

Traditionally, as the amount of data to be transmitted becomes larger, the distance that the data can be sent wirelessly becomes shorter. SANYO’s Uncompressed HD Data Wireless Transmission System was able to overcome the traditional weakness of distance by using signals in the 5GHz bandwidth, and by adding multiple antennas to enable the transmission of a large amount of data at one time. Products using this system achieve cleaner images and eliminate unsightly delays, thus making projection of high definition and high resolution images possible at the incredible distance of as much as 100’ between the source of transmission and the receiver.

“Maradin’s MLP utilizes a unique proprietary actuation method, overcoming the biggest challenge of developing an adequate torque. Combining electro-magneto and electro-static actuation, a unique control scheme of the actuators along with a novel fabrication process, facilitated a true raster scan of the highest quality” Maradin

Marketing-speak is generally pretty good at persuading us that an upcoming technology is The Next Big Thing, but investors tend to be a harder sell.  Maradin, however, have managed to raise $3m from a private Swiss investor to fund MLP development and commercialization.

Apparently a prototype of the Maradin pico-projector has already been completed, and the company is working with Singapore’s IME research center who will be responsible for mass-producing the chips.  The first commercial products using MLP are expected to hit the market by early 2010.

[via PicoProjector-info]

Video demos after the cut

When he encounters someone at a party, the system projects a cloud of words on the person’s body to provide more information about him — his blog URL, the name of his company, his likes and interests. “This is a more controversial [feature],” Maes said over the audience’s laughter.  In another frame, Mistry picks up a boarding pass while he’s sitting in a car. He projects the current status of his flight and gate number he’s retrieved from the flight-status page of the airline onto the card

The students, led by Pranav Mistry, are part of the Fluid Interfaces group at MIT Media Lab; the prototype they demonstrated consisted of a battery-powered 3M pico-projector, a cellphone and a webcam, together with four colored Magic Marker lids worn on the fingertips.  The hardware, costing less than $350, can track the lids and interpret the movements according to predefined functions, such as pulling up internet reviews of a book picked up in a store, and projecting them onto the book itself.

The technology, which has been patented, also allows mobile access to email, phone and other communication methods.  A menu can be pulled up via a preset gesture, and then shortcuts – such as tracing an @ symbol to call up email – used to access different functions.  More information on the project here [pdf link].

[tip o' the hat to s_constantine]

The 6500 UB hopes to tempt you by offering up a native 1920×1080 resolution plus a 75,000:1 contrast ratio.  The projector’s bulb shines at a bright, hot 1,600 lumens and the lens packs a 2.1x zoom ratio.  If you want to try the 6500 UB on the side, don’t worry, it can keep quiet – the projector’s fan is a quiet 22 dB.

The PowerLite Home Cinema 6500 UB will cost around $3,000 when it hits retail, but no official release date is known yet.  You’ll have some time to figure out whether or not it’s right for you.

[via Electronista]

When we say this projector is tiny, we are not kidding! The Japanese-made CV-MP01 measures a mere 1.6 x 2.25 x 2.3 inches and weighs in at just 3.17 ounces.  The LED-backlit imager uses LCOS technology to display images at up to 4:3 type ratio (640 x 480) VGA resolution. They also managed to fit in built-in speakers and a 3.5mm AV jack as well.

We don’t expect to see this handy little projector here in the US now or ever. There still is no general pricing or even a projected Japanese release date. If you absolutely have a die-hard need to have a tiny projector we are sure you can import this eventually.

Other specs include 1,000:1 contrast ratio and 10 lumens brightness from the LED lightsource; the LED itself is rated for 20,000hrs use, and has two power settings.  Inputs include composite video and stereo audio to drive the integrated 0.5W speaker.  The PK101 measures 51 x 105 x 77mm and recharges either via an AC adaptor or through its mini-USB port.  A full charge is good for two hours.

You’re unlikely to be watching any feature films with 480 x 320 resolution, but it could be handy for impromptu presentations or keeping the kids entertained while waiting at the airport.  Optoma will supply the PK101 with two Li-Ion batteries, and the projector has a tripod screw-mount underneath.  It will go up for preorder on December 1st, with deliveries expected from December 16th; pricing is unconfirmed but expected to be under 50,000 yen ($512).

Check out the video demo after the cut

Commercial systems take a thin layer of fog and sandwich it between two sheets of air.  That way the screen is incredibly flat, and you end up with an impressively clear image.  Steve’s attempts to recreate it on a modder’s budget fell a little short, so he improvised by injecting the fog directly into a single airstream.

The fog itself is created by taking the smoke from a standard smoke machine and cooling it in a length of dryer duct pipe dunked in a barrel of ice.  Without the cooling the smoke would rise.  He’s got plans to tweak the system for a better image next year, including projecting a live camera picture onto it (after some suitably spooky visual effects have been added).

Check out the video demo of SecondLight Surface after the cut

SecondLight works by replacing the standard glass table-top of the Surface with an LCD panel.  This can switch rapidly between frosted – as with the normal Surface – or transparent, doing so at a rate imperceivable to the human eye.  The projector underneath this LCD panel is synchronized to display either the standard image, when the LCD is frosted, or the secondary image, when the LCD is transparent.

In this way, both images are produced sequentially but at such a speed that the eye believes them to be simultaneous.  Alternative uses suggested included showing more detailed mapping data on the handheld display, when held over a satellite image, and plotting out star constellations when held over an image of the night sky.  Microsoft have not given any indication of whether this development to Surface will be included in future versions of the table.

[via Slashdot]

In fact, check out the CineWall CW-95HD from Runco. This in-wall projection system utilizes the look of a flat screen TV, with the quality of front projection. It’s hard to go wrong with that sort of combination.

Specs include Vivix II internal processing, CineWide technology, Constant Contrast correction, CinOptx lens system and more. The screen measures at 95″ with a 2.35:1 aspect ratio. As you might have expected, systems like this don’t come cheap. Available beginning in November, the Runco CineWall CW-95HD will cost $50,000.  

[via Ubergizmo]

Image via Digitimes

PhlatLight works by replacing the traditional bulb and color-wheel array with a set of high-powered primary LEDs.  Up until now, the brightness hasn’t been sufficient for anything beyond portable, pocket projectors.  This new breed, however, will offer instant start-up (no gradually warming bulbs), brightness and color levels that are constant over the projectors lifespan and, best of all perhaps, no need to replace the bulb.

“PhlatLight LEDs give DLP projectors a digital RGB light source delivering unprecedented image quality with a wider color gamut, accurate, saturated colors with higher contrast and deeper blacks” Christian Hoepfner, vice president of products, Luminus Devices 

In fact, they’re claiming fifty percent wider color gamut than NTSC, together with ultra-rapid changes in hue.  After the domestic projectors launch this year, Luminus and TI are planning on developing business and education-friendly projector technology for release in 2009.

[via Electronic House]

Big, rich images are only possible, of course, after you’ve set your new toy up, and Mitsubishi have done a good job there.  Using the fully-backlit remote it’s straightforward to tweak the motorized zoom, focus, and horizontal/vertical lens-shift, all helpful when you consider many users will be hard-installing the HC6000 (as S&V point out, it comes with an install-friendly serial connection and 12V output).  Of course, there are plenty more settings after that, enough to get it really singing in any room.

In use, S&V praise the quality with both standard and high definition media, and save particular credit for the Auto Iris mode which optimizes contrast on-the-fly.  The fact that it’s the quietest projector reviewer Brent Butterworth has ever tested doesn’t hurt either!  The Mitsubishi HC6000 is available now, and it obviously comes highly recommended.

[via AboutProjectors]

Check out the demo videos after the cut

Frustrated Total Internal Reflection uses IR leds to bounce light internally through a sheet of Plexiglass; normally the light is contained within the pane, but when a finger touches it’s scattered out the back.  That’s picked up by the webcam, hacked to recognise only IR light, and the software translates those recognised blobs into stretch, twist and other commands.  Christopher also adds a layer of silicone rubber which reduces the pressure needed against the screen.

Christopher is clear that this isn’t really a first-time project, and nor is it suitable for commercial use.  But his Instructable is certainly clear enough that if you’re not as cack-handed as I am you could probably come up with a reasonable facsimile.  I’m going to have to wait until Microsoft decides to stop being stupid and release their TouchWall software.

[via Hack A Day]

Check out the video demo of TouchWall after the cut

TouchWall lacks Surface’s ability to recognise objects, but it can still be used to scroll, zoom in and out, control different functions and allow the user to draw on the display as if a whiteboard.  While in the demo Microsoft used a rear-projection setup, in the earlier stages of the project they apparently used a simple cardboard screen with front-projection.  They estimate total hardware cost coming in at just “hundreds of dollars”.

So you’d think: cool product, obviously plenty of customer interest, straightforward for Microsoft to release Plex and a list of DIY hardware instructions; obvious good case for availability.  But Microsoft seem to have had a crazy moment, and decided that they have no current plans to turn TouchWall into a commercial product.  Considering this could come in far, far cheaper than current touch-sensitive whiteboards (and potentially scale to any size your room – and projector – will accommodate) it seems a missed opportunity.

[via CrunchGear]

Check out the demo video of  Arcstream’s ‘Living Image’ after the cut

The projector used has a relatively normal resolution of 1024 x 768, but is particularly bright at 6,500 Lumens.  “We saw the Living Image display as a great way to add to the theming of the area,” said Stephen Foulger, The Science of Survival’s content director.  “The interactivity of the technology was also a major factor. We were really impressed with the technology’s ability to engage people’s senses – sight, sound and touch – which proved particularly popular with our younger visitors.”

Intended to educate young people about safe drinking water and water shortages, the exhibition will be open until November this year.  There’s another demo video of Arcstream’s ‘Living Image’ technology at their site.  It’s also been used for interactive projected soccer games, traffic simulations and more.

[via About Projectors]

It has a True UXGA resolution of 1600×1200, 7700 ANSI Lumens (that’s nearly bright enough to use outside). Since the light is measured in Lumens you can probably deduce that it’s a projection display that has a touch-sensitive projection surface. It surrounded by aluminum and has a matte-white surface.

Best of all, you can network multiple displays of this type together both in the same location and in a remote location so that two separate groups can collaborate on the same thing. No word on price or availability, but it looks like they are in productions, only thing is it will likely cost you a fortune.

[via BornRich]

The IN35, IN35W and IN37 all proclaim 50% brighter color and come in 6 different colors. All three are only 5lbs and have a 1400:1 contrast ratio. They are all available now and will start at $1099.

The IN82 is a full HD 1080p projector and is the highest performing single-chip DLP home theater projector for InFocus. It too is available now and costs $5500.

The Portable PC Theater wants to give you that experience. It comes with everything you may want or need: a PC, a projector, a collapsible keyboard and stereo speakers.

The best part is that all these parts can be interconnected for your convenience. Unfortunately there’s no mention of where, when, or how you’d buy them.

Portable PC Theater [via Yanko]

You’ll get your choice of three spaced themed images: full moon, starry sky and Saturn. The Space Projection Alarm Clock also comes equipped with three different alarm tones. You get your choice to be awakened by: transport, ping, or analyze. You can mix and match to get your full outer space experience.

The clock has an almost robotic look to it, which completes the package. It’s sure to make your sleeping experience more out of this world. You can find it at the Discovery Channel Store, it retails for $29.95.

Space Projection Alarm Clock [via Oh gizmo!]