Optoma Technology TX610ST XGA Multimedia Projector

The Optoma TX610ST XGA Multimedia Projector packs a lot of advanced features backed with strong specs and cutting-edge technology into a surprisingly affordable package. Its 3,000 lumens of projection power combined with its 3,000:1 contrast ratio and XGA (1,024 x 768) resolution means it will provide a tack-sharp, vivid image in medium to large rooms, even those with high ambient light challenges.

The defining feature of the TX610ST, however, its ability to work close and I mean very close, to the projection screen. The advantages of this short throw technology are many. The TX610ST is made to conquer small rooms and tight quarters. All you need is 3' of distance from the screen to project an image of 72" diagonal. You can place the projector on a table top, up front and center or save even more space by ceiling or wall mounting it close to the screen. You can forget about the possibility of audience members inadvertently blocking the beam and creating shadows on the screen.

But that's just the beginning. Another of the TX610ST's XGA key features is its Texas Instruments DMD DLP chip. This 0.55" chip processes not just the three primary colors that all other chips work on, (red, green and blue), but also their complements: cyan, magenta and yellow. As a result colors are so clear and lifelike that Texas Instruments calls its latest version of the technology BrilliantColor. DLP chips with BrilliantColor increase the brightness of colors by 50 percent vs. DLP chips without it. An added advantage of this chip is that it requires no filter that has to be periodically cleaned and replaced, an operation that can be risky in ceiling mounted installations.

The TX610ST is 3D capable. Thanks to DLP Link technology 3D content can be viewed with compatible 3D glasses and a 3D equipped computer. Studies show that viewers retain 3D screened information more than 2D. Imagine adding this immersive element to classes or presentations.

The projector's wide connectivity includes HDMI, a microphone input, RS-232 and USB for mouse control, as well as monitor loop-through. An RJ-45 connector is also included for control of the projector or several of them, remotely over a network. And it's compatible with Creston RoomView technology which adds a wide variety of network controls. As far as audio is concerned, the 10W sound system eliminates the need for external speakers in most cases.

The TX610ST is world-ready thanks to its auto-switching 100 - 240 V AC power supply and compatibility with NTSC, PAL and SECAM color systems. It's also compatible with PC and Mac resolution and frequency combinations so it's ideal for laptop-based business presentations. Closed Captioning is on board for noisy environments or for the hearing-impaired.

Lastly, once you've gotten used to the TX610ST's advanced features you wouldn't want it to take an unannounced leave of the premises. There's a control panel lock, password protection and a security bar to prevent that from happening.