First Look: NEC’s Sub-Five Pound Projectors

Wayne N. Kawamoto
Managing Editor, www.smallbusinesscomputing.com

NEC Technologies introduced two new sub-five-pound projectors, the LT157 and LT158. The LT157 replaces NEC’s LT155 microportable, while the LT158 replaces the LT156. The new projectors enhance the previous generation’s design with increased brightness, a 2500-hour lamp life in Eco-Mode for reduced lamp replacement costs, and a 50% contrast ratio increase.

According to NEC, the XGA native resolution projectors are the lightest LCD-based projectors available. The two products are identical except that the LT157 is designed for users who prefer an analog input while the LT158 features a DVI-I input, making the LT158 compatible with the analog outputs of current laptops as well as with future generations of laptops that may feature digital outputs.

The LT157 and LT158 offer AutoSense one-touch setup and operation; a technology NEC calls Advanced AccuBlend which should display non-native resolution sources up to UXGA; and a USB input that lets users operate the menu system and make chalkboard-style annotations using a USB mouse.

The LT157 and LT158 promise good image quality through NEC’s VORTEX Technology, which is designed to create data and graphics displays with solid uniformity, color and contrast, and video displays with greater depth, detail, brighter whites and more realistic colors.

The LT157 and LT158 are backed by NEC Technologies’ service programs. Two years of InstaCare coverage comes with the projectors along with a three-year limited parts and labor warranty. InstaCare Xpress provides customers with a “next available flight” replacement option (fees and airline restrictions may apply). And TravelCare offers repair and return service or the use of a temporary loaner projector (at a nominal fee) while traveling outside of the United States and Canada.

Pricing and Availability
The LT157 and LT158 are available now through the NEC’s nationwide network of partners. The estimated street prices of the LT157 and LT158 are $3,995 and $4,095 respectively. For more information visit http://www.nectech.com .