Compaq MP1600 review

Digging into the feature set reveals some differences between the Compaq, NEC and InFocus projectors. The InFocus, for example, features a small zoom lens and basic audio facilities that saves you from carrying speakers around with you. The LP330 also comes with a remote control and a USB connection to your PC for mouse-pointer control. You don't getæany of that with the Compaq, and perhapsæmore importantly you don't get composite oræS-Video inputs either. If you want to connect a VCR or DVD player to this model, you'll need to buy Compaq's optional video module, although this only costs an additional £198 plus VAT. Interestingly, this module connects to the Compaq's truly unique feature: a digital DFP input. Yes, alongside a conventional analog 15-pin VGA connector is a DFP port that allows a direct digital connection with a suitable device. Sadly, DFP didn't set the world on fire, and it looks like the future digital video interface between PCs and displays will be the larger DVI interface.

Looks-wise, the Compaq is a vertical tower design, compared to the flat, horizontal designs of the NEC and InFocus. The latter two argue that there's no way their units can be knocked over, although Compaq improves its stability with a wide foot that rotates 90 degrees. This foot can also raise the projecting angle by ten degrees, which the Compaq can compensate for with standard keystone image correction. The flat models, however, employ 100 per cent image offset, which means you don't need to worry about obstructing cups and papers onæthe desk.

Compaq has certainly put InFocus and NEC in a tricky position price-wise. InFocus can claim more features and NEC a brighter image, but the fact remains that the Compaq is smaller, lighter, significantly cheaper and has all the facilities you need for projecting PC images in an ultra-portable environment.

Author: Gordon Laing