Projector manufacturer Epson has introduced to 3D projector solutions aimed at the education market.
The PowerLite W16 and PowerLite W16SK deliver brighter colors than predecessor models and enable 3D viewing in typical, well-lit classroom settings. The projectors also offer a range of features aimed at teachers and professors, including easy setup and connectivity options (as well as an affordable price point).
“Studies have shown that 3D in education is on the rise and 3D lessons increase student learning and retention,” says Sara Kim, Epson America’s associate product manager, K-12 education. “For example, whether faced with high-ambient light or the need to provide affordable 3D glasses for all students, the Epson PowerLite W16SK addresses these challenges by delivering bright images and leveraging technology that allows for inexpensive 3D glasses to be used for all content for every student.”
By offering both an active and passive model, Epson is hoping it can “provide broader choices for educators selecting the right 3D projection solution for their classroom,” according to a company press release.
The PowerLite W16 and W16SK deliver WXGA widescreen resolution and support multiple HDMI 3D formats out of the box, without the need for an external converter box.
PowerLite W16
The Epson PowerLite W16 is designed for educators interested in an active 3D projection solution. It offers image quality, brightness, and ease of use with Epson’s active shutter 3D RF glasses. The PowerLite W16 also offers a dynamic 2D visual experience, with 3,000 lumens of color brightness and 3,000 lumens of white light output.
The PowerLite W16 requires minimal set-up with 3-in-1 USB Plug ‘n Play and the option to install or remain as a portable projector.†
The projector also offers positioning flexibility in the way of automatic horizontal (+/- 20 degrees) and vertical (+/- 30 degrees) keystone correction, Quick Corner to accommodate the four corners of an image to be moved independently, and Screen Fit, which automatically adjusts the projected image to fill the screen size being used.
The PowerLite W16 carries a MSRP of $849.
PowerLite W16SK
The PowerLite W16SK dual projection system is a stacked projector kit made specifically for education. This 3D solution includes two projectors, polarizing lenses, and a stack mount to deliver ultra-bright passive 3D projection.
If offers positioning flexibility in the way of +/- 15 degrees vertical and horizontal keystone image correction. It also delivers up to 6,000 lumens of color brightness and 6,000 lumens of white light output in 2D mode when stacked, making them bright enough for well-lit classrooms.†
The PowerLite W16SK uses inexpensive passive 3D glasses, priced at only $3 a pair and sold as a box of five pairs.
The PowerLite W16 carries a MSRP of $1,899.
Shared Features
The Epson PowerLite W16 and W16SK offer several additional features beneficial to the classroom, including:
- Connectivity – HDMI, computer/VGA inputs, monitor output, audio input, audio output, USB, and RS-232c.
- Multiple HDMI 3D Format Support – No external 3D converter box is necessary.
- Energy & Cost Savings – The lamp life of these projectors can last up to 5,000 hours in economy mode. Brighter Futures education customers also have the benefit of purchasing replacement lamps at a special discounted rate of $99.
- 3LCD Technology – The projectors offer the latest 3LCD, 3-chip technology to deliver true-to-life color and detail for presentations. In addition, the 3LCD technology provides an energy-efficient light engine that efficiently uses available lamplight to create images.
- Color Brightness – The new color brightness specification (measuring red, green and blue) published by the Society of Information Display (SID) enables consumers to compare projector color performance without conducting a side-by-side shootout.
- Brighter Futures – This educators’ program provides special sales and support offerings to participating schools. Brighter Futures offers special pricing, extended Epson limited warranty coverage for three years, dedicated education account managers, and toll-free technical support line.
Availability & Support
The Epson PowerLite W16 and W16SK will be available in January 2013 through pro audio/visual dealers, mail order, distribution, commercial channels, and via www.epson.com.
Epson’s PowerLite projectors come with a two-year limited warranty (three years for Brighter Futures customers) that includes two elite technical support services – Epson PrivateLine phone support with direct access to an expedited support telephone line and a two-year Road Service projector replacement program that includes projector exchange in one business day with paid shipping.
