NEC Display Solutions launches ten eco friendly projectors

The projectors are successors to the NP600 series, and are equipped with a rich set of green features that aim at minimising the TCO (total cost of ownership). These new projectors - which include NP305, NP310, NP405, NP410, NP410W, NP510, NP510W, NP510WS, NP610 and NP610S - are specifically targeted at the education and corporate sector.

"The importance of creating electronics with the environment in mind cannot be overstated; with these ten standard and short-throw projectors, NEC Display Systems is taking the lead in providing products that consume less power when in stand by mode," explained Ian Gobey, the General Manager of NEC Display Systems in the Middle East.

"The new projector family features a strong emphasis on environmental friendliness and improved TCO. The lifespan of the lamps now last up to 5,000 hours and the filter cleaning interval has been extended to up to 1,500 hours."

Furthermore, a carbon savings metre calculates the positive effects of operating the projector in eco mode, which is encouraged by an optional message at start up. A green Eco Mode button on the remote control makes the switch easy. The quick start (3 to 4 seconds) and immediate power off functions (no cooling required after shut-down) ensure efficient energy usage. Various timer functions meanwhile help assure that the projectors only run when they are actually in use.

With the new projectors, the power consumption in Eco and High Brightness Mode has been reduced significantly. In standby mode the projectors only consume 0.7W, providing full EuP-compliance.

EuP 2005/32/EC (EU Directive on Energy Using Products), which comes into effect in 2010, states that projectors must consume less than 1W in standby mode or have a complete shut off switch. The first model to be released in the new projector series is the NP510W, which packs in a brightness capability of 3,000 ANSI Lumens. The projector also features a contrast ratio of 500:1 and supports resolutions up to 1,920 x 1,080 (Native Resolution: 1,280 x 800).

Apart from the improved technical features, usability plays a vital role. NEC's Virtual Remote Software allows control of the projector directly from the computer via the VGA cable, thus acting like a real remote control.

This is particularly useful in the education sector, wherein projectors are ceiling mounted and remote controls happen to get misplaced. The integrated LAN connectivity (not applicable for NP305 and NP405) makes it possible to centrally control and monitor multiple projectors.

Availability and warranty

The NEC NP510W is available immediately, with nine other models being launched over the next few months. Included in the package are a VGA-cable, an IR remote control unit, a carrying case (not included with NP305, NP405, NP510WS and NP610S), a protective lens cap, a DVI VGA adapter (not NP305 and NP405) as well as a CD manual and a quick setup guide.. NEC Display Solutions provides 3-years warranty on the main unit.

The manufacturer also offers a warranty period of six months or 1,000 hours of operation for the projector lamp. Additionally there are extended main unit and lamp warranties available.