This latest LCD projector from Epson is a great balance of performance and flexibility at a very reasonable price point. Its rated at up to 2000 ANSI lumens with a native XGA resolution (1024 x 768) packed into a very neat 5.7 pound package. The PowerLite 76c also features Epson’s 3 LCD projector technology, delivering sharp, bright images. This LCD projector is ideal for portable presentation applications as it can handle a wide variety of environments with ease.
The 3 LCD technology means images have excellent, continuous colour rendering with high contrast and great depth of shadow, as well as good edge-to-edge consistency. To help keep the image bright this LCD projector uses Epson’s new E-TORL lamp technology (Epson - Twin Optimized Reflection Lamp). This projector bulb is designed to gather and project more of the light by reducing light leakage and diffraction.
“The PowerLite 76c represents a milestone in the evolution of value projectors,” said Aaron Marinari, senior product manager, Epson America. “Beyond the fact that it gives customers XGA resolution and 2,000 ANSI lumens of brightness for $1,099, it stands apart with outstanding 3 LCD image quality and a wide range of unique, user-friendly features, like Instant Off, that make presenting a hassle-free, productive and more enjoyable experience.”
Quick and Easy Setup
Epson have obviously designed the PowerLite 76c with the needs of the presenter in mind. Start-up takes just four seconds from switching on power to the start-up screen appearing. The Epson exclusive Instant Off feature means no cool down time is needed when you come to pack up. Just power down and unplug and you’re ready to go. The supplied remote control gives easy access to the setup features and also allows you to advance and manipulate PowerPoint and Keynote presentations without using the PC.
If you have a number of sources for your presentation the PowerLite 76c will automatically identify and display all your connected inputs with the ‘Source Search’ button. The same button allows you to swap easily between sources. For small rooms the 1.2x optical zoom lens can produce a large image at a relatively short distance. And up to 30 degrees of keystone correction means this LCD projector can handle even the most demanding presentation room. The thrifty corporate presenter will be glad to see a 1500 ANSI lumens ‘Low Brightness’ mode that will increase lamp life when the presenting environment permits.
Security Features
An LCD projector is an expensive and desirable object that can be an easy target when you’re on the road and prsenting in public places. The security features built into the PowerLite 76c should give you added confidence about taking it along. There is a 4 digit pass code to be entered via the remote. If an incorrect password is entered a number of times the unit simply powers down, making it unusable if stolen. There is also a button lock feature that prevents unwanted tampering during use.
Conclusion
The Epson PowerLite 76c is a lightweight, full featured LCD projector ideal for taking on the road. It is easy to use, quick to set up and produces very good quality images from just about any source. The PowerLite 76c LCD projector will be available in store through Epson authorized dealers in October 2005.