An interactive projector sounds like something that is good on paper, but execution would leave a lot to be desired. Indeed, before even seeing it in action for myself, I was very sceptical with the concept itself. So imagine my surprise that the Epson EB-595Wi managed to dispel my doubts and make me a believer all in one go.
Mounted Close
First off, the 595Wi is an ultra-short throw projector. What does that mean? Well, an ultra-short throw projector is a projector that is mounted close to the display surface, meaning walls, whiteboards, and even tables as there is a special mount for that. This short distance between the surface and the projector means that you won’t cast a shadow on the projected images much like typical projectors. The downside is that the display size for ultra-short throw projectors is much smaller than normal projectors, meaning this unit is unsuitable for large venues.
Red, Green And Blue
When it comes to display quality, Epson has eschewed the commonly used DLP system found in a vast majority of projectors, opting to utilise its proprietary 3LCD technology instead. This technology translates to an impressive output that is crisp, bright and clear. Also worthy of mention is that the 3LCD technology completely negates the Rainbow Effect found in DLP projectors.
Touch It, Feel It
Let’s get to the “interactive” part of the projector. The 595Wi has two separate sensors to detect any activity done on the projected image. The first one is located inside the projector itself that senses the position of the pens that come with the projector. The other is an infrared sensor that detects your fingers instead. Both sensors operates slightly differently but are equally sensitive. The two pens that come with the projector are tracked by the sensor but no interaction is done until the pen is pushed against the surface.
The fingers, on the other hand, can interact with the projected images so long as they are within the infrared curtain generated by the infrared sensor. Drawing on the projected images is actually possible by just hovering the finger over the surface. However, the infrared curtain requires a completely smooth surface to work properly. Also, the sensor can detect up to 6 fingers at one time, but the fingers must have space between them.
One For The Meeting Room
Overall, the 595Wi is a great projector with very competent sensors that don’t make the interactive part feel gimmicky. The display size makes it ideal for schools, lecture rooms, and even board rooms.
Price : n/a
Dimensions : 155 x 367 x 375 mm
Weight : 5.3 kg
Screen Size : 74.3” screen at 43.8 cm
Contrast Ratio : 10,000 : 1
Projection Technology : RGB liquid crystal shutter projection system (3LCD)
Connectivity : D-Sub 15pin, Composite, S-Video, HDMI, Wired LAN, Wireless
Value 9
Performance 9
Features 9
Design 8
Usability 9
Verdict :The perfect tool for the conference room.
Total 8.8
