With millions of iPods sold daily, its no surprise that consumer electronic companies are all jumping on the iPod peripheral bandwagon. This isn't a bad thing, because these companies think out innovative ways to maximize the world's favorite music player.

Viewsonic for example just announced the PJ258D - the world's first High Definition, "Made for iPod" DLP front projector. The PJ258D comes with its own iPod dock built into it.

This means that movies and videos stored on one's iPod can be played back on the projector. While docked the iPod is charged which means you can finish the entire movie without interruptions.

The device is also meant to be portable, weighing less than 4 pounds. But it remains a versatile "powerhouse" nonetheless. Like most projectors of its class it also offers multiple connectivity options including S-Video and VGA.

It offers 2,000 lumens of brightness and a contrast ration of 2000:1.

The PJ258D will be available in the first quarter of 2007 at an estimated price of $999.

Casio XJ-S35 Super Slim Projector is designed by Casio, Inc. It is the world’s thinnest projector in its class with the size of a B5 note book and its thinnest point of 32 millimeters. It can be fitted in an attaché case for the ultimate mobility.

A new slim 2X zoom lens and bright lamp deliver superb performance; now images can be projected from as close as 2.7’ and as far away as 5.6 to 11.2 ft. This feature makes the projector suitable both for small boardrooms and large conference halls or classrooms. Remarkable brightness of 2000 ANSI lumens facilitates making presentations without dimming the lights.

Other features:

• Change your presentations with XJ-S35.
• If you need to link your PC to Super Slim Projector, just plug in the wireless adapter.
• Plug in a USB Memory key containing your PowerPoint Presentations and off you can go for your work.
• You can also connect directly to Casio’s Multi functional Camera.
• You can also play MPEG 4 movies without your PC.
• If you connect Casio's YC-400 multi-functional camera system, you would be able to project non-digital documents and three-dimensional objects on a screen.
• Automatic detection and correction of top distortion from projector-to-screen angle issues. Slim Portable Data projectors employ DLP projection technology for true XGA (1024 x 768) display and SXGA (1280 x 1024) compressed display. They also feature video input ports compatible with a wide variety of image sources.

With its amazing features this new mobile projector is great for small, everyday meetings and major presentations—and everything in between. Super Slim Projector combines three proprietary (patent pending) technologies to create the ultimate portable presentation projector. For those who travel too much, the Casio XJ-S35 features an ultra-thin design similar to a laptop computer and makes it easy to slide into a laptop bag. It weighs just 3.9 lbs.

Revolutionary, new light source and cooling technologies, high-efficiency; thin optical engine, aspherical reflector, and condenser lens with a new shape that minimizes the size of the light source lamp make this Projector popular among professionals. To keep the projector running cool a single fan and two chamber cooling system are provided in the Projector.

Portable Projectors are sure catching on which ain’t a surprise considering how convenient and versatile they are! The latest portable projector on the block is the ultra-portable BenQ MP510, which promises utmost functionality despite its miniscule size.

The BenQ MP510 is a professional digital projector with 10.9” x 8.2” (less than an 81⁄2” x 11” sheet of paper) dimensions. It weighs just about 5.9 pounds and is thus found to be ideal for business applications, educational institutions, and on-the-go presentations. Thanks to its small form factor and affordable price tag, the MP510 is suited for a number of environments.

Care has been taken to make the interface as user-friendly as possible and the projector also delivers a reasonable 500 ANSI lumens of brightness and a 2000:1 contrast ratio. BenQ also promises noise free operation as the projector runs at just t 22dB, so say goodbye to whirling fans and humming motor noises.

The new projector utilizes DLP Technology for enhanced image quality and uses five-segment golden ratio color-wheel coating technology to balance true color saturation. The MP510 supports analog RGB, component video, and S-Video inputs in addition to digital video formats, including 480p, 576p, 720p, and 1080i. The BenQ MP510 will be available from November and would retail for just $499. For more info visit BenQ

Looking a lot like the Chocolate cell phone series, LG has designed a new hand-held projector. Though tiny; the projector does have VGA and HDMI inputs for projecting images on whatever surface strikes you. Would be really useful for those mobile movie mobs.

No pricing or release date info as of yet.

Via Aving

Portable projectors are gaining momentum, and how. Toshiba unveiled its latest addition, the TDP-FF1AU mobile projector. With a rated brightness of 400 lux, there's no compromise on quality with this tiny performer.

The Toshiba TDP-FF1AU weighs just 1.1 pounds and has a 1500:1 high contrast ratio. No more messy electrical cords for this one: it runs happily on a battery, and there are no delays due to warm-up or cooling. The projector offers native SVGA 800x600 pixel resolution. With energy-efficient LEDs driving the light source, you save on battery as well.

Input terminals on the TDP-FF1AU include RGB, composite, USB and stereo mini jack. It offers manual keystone-correction (vertical +/- 16°), as well as HDTV/DTV compatibility. The included battery lasts for 2 hours on a full charge, and it can be recharged in about 3.5 hours.

Priced at US $699, the Toshiba TDP-FF1AU is a boon to mobile presenters. Package includes remote control, 23" folding screen, AC adapter, manual and soft carrying bag. Specs in the extended entry.

Toshiba has a new portable projector out in the wild. The Toshiba TDP-S35U Mobile Projector is a DLP projector suited for traveling salespeople, weighing in at 6.6 pounds. With a rated brightness of 2,000 ANSI lumens and 2000:1 contrast ratio, the TDP-S35U offers native SVGA (800x600 pixels) resolution.

The TDP-S35U has four video inputs, including two RGB, one composite and one S-Video. Digital keystone correction is manual, and the projector is compatible with HDTV/DTV.

Priced at US $699, the package includes the Toshiba TDP-S35U projector, RGB cable, remote control, CD and manuals along with a soft carrying bag.

(Via Mobile Mag)

Casio claims to have the world's flattest data projectors with the new XJ-S30 and XJ-S35, only measuring 43mm thick and weighting 1.8Kg with the size of a A4 paper sheet, making them easy for transportation which is the reason they are CASIO's lightest mobile projectors. Both feature a 1.024 x 768 XGA resolution and a 2 x optical power zoom + 4x digital zoom, the 16.7 million colors come with a good detail that being the 2,000 ANSI lumens of brightness level. On terms of video support it is compatible with the following signals: NTSC/PAL/PAL-N/PAL-M/PAL60/SECAM. One of the differences between the XJ-S30 and XJ-S35 is on the connectivity department, more exactly the USB connections: while the S35 has a USB1.1 host, his little brother doesn't.

If the projector is within 1.7m of distance from the projection surface, it will display a clear image measuring 1.52m of diagonal. This same projection screen size can go from 15 inches to 300 inches.

Casio

Epson has added four more ultra portable projectors in their portfolio. The new Epson PowerLite 1700c, 1710c, 1705c and 1715c projectors feature the critically acclaimed 3LCD technology and are ideal for the professional on the go who want a lightweight yet a high end projection solution.

Compact and weighing 3.5 pounds (1700c / 1710c) and 3.7 pounds (1705c / 1715c) these projectors can be lugged around anywhere. When it comes to brightness the 1700c and 1705c deliver 2,200 ANSI lumens of brightness and the 1710c and 1715c deliver 2,700 ANSI lumens of brightness. The 1705 and 1715c are stepped up models of the 1700c and 1710c and also includes wireless capabilities which are missing in the 1700c and the 1710c.

The 1705, and 1715c features the 802.11a/b/g wireless technology and thanks to the onboard Epson patented technologies they are capable of projecting full-screen, full-motion (30 frames per second) MPEG2 video with audio. Via the "Quick Connection Mode" one can set up a wireless network in minutes and even the most technologically challenged soul will be able to figure it out according to Epson! They are also compatible with security encryption formats and via the optional Ethernet (wired LAN) module and Epson's Easy MP(TM) monitoring software lets the experts monitor for glitches and other technical issues.

Thanks to the onboard USB 2.0 Type B port one can directly plug in the projectors to a PC via a USB chord. One can also project images from storage devices like a photo viewer or an Apple iPod via the same USB port. The PowerLite 1700c, 1705c, 1710c, and 1715c as mentioned by me earlier feature the 3LCD technology which results in vivid and accurate colors and lets one adjust each color's hue and saturation. They are available now and the Epson PowerLite 1700c and 1710c are retailing for $1,299 and $1,799 while the PowerLite 1705c and 1715c for $1,499 and $1,599. For more info head over to www.epson.com

Epson has added another feather in their cap by launching the world's first USB Plug in Play projector which will offer its users true mobility. The new EMP-1715 wireless multimedia projector weighs just 1.7 kg and has a footprint of 273 by 193 mm. It has an impressive 2700 ANSI lumen lamp brightness and can be teamed up with both PC and Mac.

The new USB projector has a very handy first multi screen display function which lets one display content from different applications from a single PC. Other features include; 5 second quick startup and instant off, AV mute slide and a new WPA-EAP enterprise mode. The projector can also be hooked up with iPods or thumb drives via the USB ports. The projector is also capable of displaying videos with smooth full size picture and sound as it uses MPEG2 compression format. No word on pricing or availability but for more info visit Epson

Toshiba introduced the TDP-ET20U Mobile Multimedia DVD Projector today which is their first all-in-one multimedia projector featuring "extreme short projection" making it ideal for home entertainment, business and/or academic settings. The projector comes complete with an integrated DVD player and 5.1 channel Dolby Pro Logic surround sound support. More importantly, the TDP-ET20U is capable of displaying a massive 100 inch screen image from a mere 3.9 feet away.

Specs on the TDP-ET20U include:

Toshiba today unveiled its new DLP projector, the TDP-TW100U DLP(R) which is ideal for mobile professionals. Toshiba promises unrivaled performance thanks to its 2,700 ANSI lumens and wireless networking capabilities and feels its perfect for small- to medium-sized businesses, educators, mobile presenters, video gamers and weekend movie and sports enthusiasts.

The new projector uses the digital light processing technology and via the integrated IEEE 802.11g wireless (2) functionality one can access it anywhere from the room without those dreaded wires. The projector weighs about 6.8 pounds, so that you don’t break your back carrying it around and delivers a contrast ratio of 2000:1. The new TDP-TW100U DLP is capable of a XGA 1024x768 native resolution and the onboard Natural Color Enhancer2 ensures vivid and animated imagery.

The TDP-TW100U has an One-touch auto setup on a fully loaded presentation remote and the via the "Blackboard" function, one is able to adjust the wall color when projecting on a non-screen surface. It has Instant power shut-down capabilities and connectivity options include composite video and S-video inputs, audio in and variable audio output capabilities. The projector is available and retails for $1,699. For more info visit http://www.toshibadirect.com/

Tis the season of Projectors and another one to debut is the ultra slim and compact Casio XJ-30 and XJ-S35 projectors which can be taken anywhere anytime without you breaking your back! Thus those executives who are always on the move. The projectors have an XGA resolution of 1.024 x 768 Pixel, a contrast ratio of 1.800 : 1 (tele mode) and a brightness of 2.000 ANSI lumens. It has a powerful 2 x optical power zoom and has a projection ratio of 1.4 - 2.8 : 1 (distance : image width).

With 42 mm thickness and weighing just 1.8 kg, the XJ-S30 and XJ-S35 super slim projectors offers true mobility. These projectors also include the Automatic keystone correction function which compensates for the upper vertical distortion (up to 30°). Another unique feature found on these projectors is the onboard USB port where one just has to insert the USB thumb drive and exhibit saved .jpeg or .mpeg files. The projectors come with a Wireless remote controller / AC cord / RGB cable / Video cable / CD-ROM / Soft case. Other features found on the projectors include Digital Zoom (4X), Freeze, Pointer, Colour Mode, Direct Power On, Eco-Mode and Kensington-compatible/Power On Password.

No word on pricing or availability buy check out the product page for more info :

ViewSonic Corp is going to save you from the evils of all wires by introducing the WPG-100 Wireless G Presentation Adapter which works in conjunction with the new PJ658 LCD projector. The WPG-100 includes built-in 802.11b/g, DVI, VGA and LAN connectors which offers wireless connectivity from up to 250 feet. If all this wasn’t enough the adapter also via the DVI or VGA connector can connect to any display under the sun. It will be available in August for $249.99.

The new PJ658 projector is another user friendly and low maintenance projector from ViewSonic which features a easy-to-reach lamp and an auto vertical keystone. It delivers a brightness of 2,500 lumens, a contrast ratio of 500:1 and a XGA 1024x768 native resolution. Some other features found on the projector include MyScreen functionality which displays any image on start up, Whiteboard Mode which reduces glare, Whisper Mode and HDTV signal support. The PJ658 will be available in July for an ESP of $999. For more info visit: http://www.viewsonic.com/projectors

"ViewSonic is committed to extending the visual experience through innovative products that allow people to do more with their technology investments," said Jeff Volpe, vice president of marketing, ViewSonic Americas. "Our wireless adapter is just the latest example on how we are supporting the varied needs of customers with cost-effective, easy-to-use solutions."

The Sanyo PLC-XP57L projector has been designed to continuously work in conjunction with the new SANYO PJ-Net Organizer plus II with a digital LVDS interface and to project realistic vibrant images all the time. It offers true mobility as it can be mounted anywhere be it upside, downside,or any where in between. For the utmost convenience and compatibility the projector includes three separate image inputs (RGB, DVI and BNC). The new projector also features the new Sanyo image processing system which includes Auto Picture Control and Dynamic Auto Gamma Correction and a New Vertical-Horizontal Edge enhancement process. The projector is available now for $9,495.00.

For more info visit: Product Page

The Hitachi CP-RS56 weighs 5.1 pounds and thus can be carried anywhere, anytime. It is able to deliver a brightness of 1,600 ANSI Lumens and a contrast ratio of 500:1. The projector features a VGA resolution with two RGB inputs and a 3,000 hour lamp life in Whisper Mode. Thus the printer is pretty cost efficient and cost effective.

The Mitsubishi PK10 PocketProjector is suppose to be the smallest projector ever and uses three LEDs (red, green and blue) to create an image which makes it extremely cost effective since there are no traditional lamps. The projector offers true mobility and also comes with an optional battery pack. Any device with a video out can be paired with the projector including notebooks, mobile phones, digital cameras and gaming consoles. See further below for Pic demo of them being used in the car.

The HP mp3320 is capable of brightness up to 2,400 ANSI (max) lumens and a contrast ratio of 2,000:1. Thanks to the XGA native resolution and VGA to SXGA+ scalability you are ensured of super sharp and fine displays. It may be big in features buts it’s pretty small design wise. In fact this mobile projector weighs just about 3.8 lb and has dimensions of 2.77 x 9.88 x 8.27 inches. It includes a zoom lens and the economy mode which lets you operate at 20 percent lower lumens, broadening the lamp life from 2,000 hours (normal mode) to 4,000 hours. Thanks to the incorporated DLP technology say good bye to inconsistent dull displays and hello to high resolution images and display.

The HP mp3320 is available now and prices start from $1,399.00. For more info visit Product Page

The Toshiba TDP-T100U DLP includes all the latest technologies out there and features the exclusive Natural Color Enhancer2 technology. This unique technology is actually a color correction circuit which makes the screen appear more realistic and displays true to life and vibrant images. The highly portable form factor and connectivity options like composite video, component and S-video inputs, audio in and variable audio output capabilities makes it a complete package. It includes a "Blackboard" function which lets one make adjustments regarding wall colors for better presentations and the One-touch auto setup makes the life easier of the presentation.

The projector also sports a digital zoom function where one can via the remote, zoom in and zoom out on a particular spot and the active monitor loop lets one view their computer monitor even when it is turned off. Another useful function one finds on the projector is the automatic vertical keystone correction (plus or minus 30 degrees) which automatically displays a square image, no matter how the projector is placed.

Via ToshibaDirect.com

Stop the press! In a major breaking news story, Sony have just announced that the long, the really long-awaited Sony PlayStation 3 will finally see the light of day in early November this year, with a worldwide launch in Japan, North America and Europe.

Honestly, that's a bit too late. Not surprisingly, PS3 will sport Blu-ray Disc for very high levels of image quality, be it games or movies, thanks to its 50GB (dual layer) storage capacity. Aside from that, it boasts compatibility with standard TVs up to the latest high-definition TVs.

Gamers can also look forward to Gigabit Ethernet support for high-speed access. Access http://www.us.playstation.com/ for additional details.

November 2006? I'll say it just one more time: too late.

The neat part is, you can not only use it at office for your presentations, you can carry it home and set up your own entertainment system to enjoy big-screen movies. Measuring just 218 x 172 x 61 (mm), the CP120 weighs 1.3 kg.

IEEE 802.11 a/b/g protocols are supported, and the bundled software allows you to easily switch connections. Other features include:

• Gamma curved line adjustment function
• Color wheel comparative adjustment (5 colors)
• Advanced color wheel coating technology (A.C.C.T)

The CP120 is equipped with quick cooling hardware - cooling now takes 1/3 of what it takes with a regular projector. BenQ even claims a 3000-hour lamp life. BenQ's website.

There is also a “Black Board Function” which adjusts according to wall colors making for readable presentation even on a non screen surface. The Digital Zoom function lets the user zoom in on any area and high lightening the presenters point. Another fantastic feature seen in the TDP-T95U is the instant power shut down feature where one doesn’t have to wait for the system to cool down before shutting.

The Toshiba TDP-T95U scores on the display also and features the renowned DLP technology offering a 2000:1 contrast ratio, 2,200 ANSI lumens and an XGA 1024x768 native resolution making it a true visual experience. Connectivity is also very convenient and includes component and S-video inputs, composite video and audio in and output capabilities. It also features vertical keystone correction that projects a square image even when the angle is wrong. A monitor output is also seen in the projector which lets viewers simultaneously see the presentation on the projector as well on an external display. The Toshiba TDP-T95U is priced at $1,299 and now available at all major stores and Toshiba dealers. For more information, visit Toshiba.com

Light Blue Optics a path breaking company based in Cambridge has just announced its latest revolutionary product , a miniature projector. All of 62cc in volume and as small as a matchbox the projector has generated a lot of buzz and is based on the ground breaking PVPro (TM) technology. Via PVPro one can view images from mobile phones, laptops, computers and even the Video Ipod.

The latest addition to the Light Blue family is termed as ‘micro-mini' representing the third generation of the PVPro algorithms and optomechanical design. According to the CEO Nic Lawrence "Our vision is to make it simple for people to share photos with their friends and to comfortably view mobile TV and music videos from their mobile devices. We believe that access to a large display, such as is provided by our PVPro projection technology, is key to increasing ease of use."

While no word on availability and prices one can check out the demonstration of the PVPro evaluation kit at the 3GSM World Congress in Barcelona, during February 13-16 2006. One can also visit their official site at www.lightblueoptics.com

There seems like there is going to be alot of competition in this area, Engadget are reporting that another company called Digislide in Australia, where Paul lives, will be announcing a similar product at 3GSM as well.

If you have always wanted to carry a projector on the move, the new Samsung P300ME is for you. It's one compact unit that packs powerful performance with state-of-the-art DLP (Digital Light Processing) technology. It's ideal for use at both home and office.

The Samsung P300ME can run either on AC supply or on a 4400 mAh Li-ion battery. It measures 127.2 x 94.5 x 50.8 mm (WxDxH) and weighs a mere 700 grams (without the external battery). The projector lamp is rated at 10,000+ hours. Resolution is a decent 800 x 600 with aspect ratios of 16:9 and 4:3 being supported. High brightness (25 ANSI Lumens) guarantees the clearest colour expressions and most precise details. Even black tones in videos and text are incredibly enhanced by 1000:1 contrast ratio. The projector features a Carl-Zeiss lens. The GUI based OSD is available in four languages - English, French, Spanish, and Korean.

The P300ME has a MSRP of 499£ and should be available in the UK from March. Expect a release in the US soon after.

Download the P300ME datasheet (PDF).

Product website: Samsung P300ME Portable Projector Via Gizmondo

For graphics maniacs who yearn for the best color quality, the MP720p's unique color-matching technology features BenQ's proprietary Golden Ratio Color Wheel that provides high-grade color reproduction. Using the Golden Ratio Color Wheel, the CP120 produces more natural flesh tones by delivering better color saturation on red and blue than standard RGB without sacrificing green. This great feature brings life to the video formats, especially DVD, high-definition television or sporting event by rendering a rich true-color picture. Super light Weight of only 6.6 lbs and featuring XGA native resolution of 1024 x 768, a brightness of 2500 ANSI lumens and a 2000:1 contrast ratio, makes it a must have utility in every education and business organization.

The MP720p's optional wireless function facilitates a cable-free connection. Users can switch from one presenter to another without the hassle of swapping VGA cables from system to system. The wireless feature supports all three high-speed wireless protocols (i.e., IEEE802.11a/b/g) for best possible flexibility when connecting to a network.

The model provides an auto-off function (5, 10, 15, 20 min.) and an ultra-long lamp life of up to 5,000 hours in economic mode for enhanced projector life and overall viewing time.

The perfect balance between performance and value model, MP720p can be purchased for an estimated MSRP of $1,299 and can be purchased through authorized BenQ distribution channels. The unit comes with a manufacturer-supported free lamp promotion that is valued at $399.

The contrast ratio is rated 2000:1, allowing for clear quality images from both computer and video sources. The CX6 provides for easy set-up, and includes inputs for DVI, S-video and composite video. A DVI-to-VGA adapter auto-senses analog PC connection as well. For multiple display connections, a video monitor loop-through is implemented.

The CX6 uses TI's DLP digital processing technology that eliminates A/D and D/A conversions, thus enabling high-quality imagery. The system comes with a remote control and laser pointer. MicroSaver Security System is included and a Power Save option ensures longevity of the lamp.

You can purchase the Microtek CX6 for US $999 from Microtek's online store.