Technology

There are a number of important things to look for in a portable digital projector for meetings on the go. Your specification shopping list should include factors such as:
1. Light Weight - anything over 6 lb is not really portable

2. Small Form Factor - smaller dimension projectors are easier to pack and carry

3. Set-up Speed - look for a projector with some quick application select modes which match the type of presentation material and projection scenarios which are likely

4. Screen Distance Flexibility - flexibility to cope with varying distances from the screen - short throw and zoom lenses provide flexibility

5. Horizontal and Vertical Lens Shift or Keystone Correction - to correct keystoning of the projected image when the projection screen is either not at the same height as the projector and/or horizontally in line / skewed - lens shift is preferred as there is no possibility of introducing artifacts from digital keystone correction

6. Good Brightness - look for over 1,800 ANSI lumens to cope with less than perfect projection situations with plenty of ambient light (eg. training rooms), 1,200 ANSI - 1,800 ANSI lumens projectors can handle some ambient light.

7. High Contrast Ratio - something of the order of 2,000 or over will produce excellent results

8. Low Noise Level - you don't want your voice to be competing with projector noise - a noise level in the 20 - 28 dB (whisper quiet) should be achievable

9. Rugged Design - to protect the projector from dust and tolerate knocks during transport - look for shutters, caps and lack of protruding controls

10. Quick Shut Down (cooling cycle) - so that you can move on without delay if necessary

11. Simple Remote Control - easy to use with large buttons - backlit if possible

12. Locking System - makes your valuable, portable projector less attractive for misuse or theft - password login keypads are a common solution

13. Personalized Start-up Image - display your company logo for a professional touch

14. No PC Required Presentations - facility to load your presentation without a PC using a USB interface or similar.

15. Protective Carry Bag - a bag which offers some protection while leaving room to store the power cord, cables etc.

Further information on interactive whiteboards is available at the respective links.

About the Author

An Engineer and Web Developer, Jeff van der Wiel is a avid science and technology follower and critic.