Epson Launches World's First 3LCD Projector with USB Connectivity and Multi-Screen Technology


Using three projection panels instead of one, 3LCD delivers brilliant pictures with natural image quality, razor-sharp detail and rich color that is free of color breakup

April 17th, 2007

Epson announced at a press conference held yesterday (Monday, April 16, 2007), on the sidelines of GITEX Saudi Arabia 2007, the launch of the EMP-1715, the world's first 3LCD projector with USB connectivity and multi-screen technology that serves as an ideal lightweight, portable projection device for presenters on the move.

3LCD is the dominant microdisplay technology worldwide, considering the total number of customers who have purchased front and rear projection products so far. According to estimates, over nine million projection products using 3LCD technology have been purchased to date, surpassing any other microdisplay technology on the market.

The advantages of 3LCD technology include, No Color Breakup - since this technology simultaneously projects three full-time red, green and blue images, there is no color breakup or "rainbow effect" to potentially cause viewers eyestrain or visual fatigue; Superior Greyscale - 3LCD products provide a broad range of neutral grey tones; Excellent Contrast - 3LCD products feature very competitive contrast ratio levels, with dozens of models routinely reaching 1000:1 or more; Brilliant Images - Many 3LCD business products currently on the market are capable of achieving brightness ratings as high as 5,000 ANSI lumens and above.

The EMP-1715, targeted at the Middle East's business and education sectors, weighs 1.7 kg, making it the smallest and lightest, high-brightness wireless projector on the market. Its features include the option of projecting up to four different screens simultaneously in addition to improved secure wireless functionality for sending movies and data.

Epson also announced today the launch of its new PictureMate PM range of photo printers with a contemporary design that empowers users to print superior quality photos at home more conveniently and cost-effectively than ever before. The two new models unveiled at the press conference were - the Epson PictureMate PM 280 and PictureMate PM 240, which are both premium quality 10x15cm photo printers.

Speaking at the press conference, Khalil El-Dalu, General Manager, Epson Middle East, said, "Our participation at GITEX Saudi Arabia this year revolved around wireless projection technology and photo printing, which was influenced by the recent markets trends in Saudi Arabia characterised by an increased interest shown by consumers in wireless technology and photo printing devices."

"The innovations in the EMP-1715 will benefit the region's business and education sectors in a big way as these have been specifically designed to provide presenters with greater functionality, increased flexibility and premium quality output. The excellent features of multi-screen technology and USB connectivity in the EMP-1715 are two world-firsts for Epson," he added.

The EMP-1715 offers a host of features for presenters who demand improved flexibility and a wider range of functions. A Quick Start feature ensures that the projector takes only five seconds to warm up, which is perfect for those with limited time. Offering 2700 ANSI lumens it is one of the brightest 3LCD projectors in its class. It also features world-first USB connectivity meaning it can be easily connected to a computer or laptop via a standard USB cable. Unlike VGA connectivity, it does not require configuration between computer and projector, which means simpler and faster set up.

Epson's Advanced EasyMP technology is incorporated into the EMP-1715 allowing it to deliver the world's first multi-screen functionality. One can project different content on up to four projectors, both wirelessly and by LAN, direct from the Windows desktop. This enables users to project supporting material alongside their main presentation or even to simultaneously show two or more presentations.

On the other hand, the PictureMate PM 280 and PictureMate PM 240 are also loaded with a host of features. To begin with, both printers work in standalone mode, so users don't even need to connect to their computers and they are easy to use with fast print speeds up to 42 seconds per photo. Exclusive to the PictureMate PM 280, is an internal CD drive allowing users to print directly from a CD or save images from digital memory card to CD. Both printers also provide direct printing from digital camera memory cards, USB Direct Print, PictBridge and an optional Bluetooth adapter.

The PictureMate PM 280 and PM 240 also feature the latest Epson PhotoEnhance technology. It automatically detects the type of scene in an image and adjusts the colour reproduction and contrast, for example, in portrait photos the technology recognises the presence of a person and adjusts skin tone and brightness to provide users with a premium quality photo. Users can also further improve their photos using the crop and red-eye removal features.

Both models incorporate Epson's Advanced Variable Sized Droplet Technology (Advanced VSDT) and also feature a variety of presentation formats. Users can choose from colour, black and white or sepia and they can also get creative with their photos by adding fun-frames, clip-art and text. Further, the optional battery pack that the models offer allow users to print photos in situations where a main power supply is not available, thereby ensuring that photos can be printed anywhere.

"Both the PictureMate PM 280 and PM 240 come with a host of user-friendly features that make it extremely easy to take high quality photo prints from the comfort of one's home. The quality enhancing features and creative templates ensure that regardless of the user's level of technical expertise, they can manage their own photographic memories to share with friends and family," said El-Dalu.

About EPSON:
EPSON is a global leader in imaging products including printers, 3LCD projectors and small- and medium-sized LCDs. With an innovative and creative culture, EPSON is dedicated to exceeding the vision and expectations of customers worldwide with products known for their superior quality, functionality, compactness and energy efficiency.
EPSON is a network of 90,701 employees in 120 companies around the world, and is proud of its ongoing contributions to the global environment and to the communities in which it is located. Led by the Japan-based Seiko EPSON Corp., the Group had consolidated sales of 1549.5 billion yen in fiscal 2005.

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