Compaq MP2800 review

Compaq launched into the projector market with the MP1600 (reviewed issue 65, p177), which was unusual in that it stood vertically. However, while the MP1600 was praised for its aggressive pricing and small size, issues with the design let it down. Hoping to address these concerns is the new MP2800, which retains Compaq's aggressive pricing strategy but updates the design to bring it in line with more recent projectors in the micro-portable format.

Like its predecessor, the MP2800 has been designed to stand vertically, but there have been a number of notable changes. One of the most important is the migration of the control buttons to the top of the projector, rather than on the side, as was the case with the MP1600. This makes the MP2800 far steadier in use, although I still prefer the inherently more stable, flat design. Cosmetically, much is the same, with only a change in size, which has dropped to a tiny 1,937cm3, weighing just 1.36kg. The base unit offers DVI and VGA D-SUB inputs. However, this is extended via use of the multimedia adaptor, which simply clips on to the back, attaching to the DVI input. This offers composite video in, S-Video in, 3.5mm audio, a mini-DIN connector for using the remote mouse functions and a meaty 8W sound unit. Unfortunately, there's no PC Card option, which means you'll still need a notebook to present from. It's also frustrating that the remote control only works with the multimedia unit attached.

Despite the reduction in size, the MP2800 has an improved rating of 1,000 ANSI lumens, using Texas Instruments' DLP technology, and the image is projected through a 1.2x zoom and focus lens.

The menu system is intuitive and features a number of useful picture-enhancing functions, such as colour temperature and keystone. I found the projector very easy to set up, and the automatic adjustment routine worked well, producing a sharp image.

However, the MP2800 showed signs of weakness when tested using DisplayMate Video Edition. Focus in particular was poor, even after optimal configuration, and resolution suffered partly as a result of this, with some fine lines appearing thicker than others. Geometry was generally good, although this worsens as you add keystone correction, which also introduces severe moirÚ interference.

Colour performance was reasonable, although colour fades were slightly truncated, which meant some bright and dark colours weren't distinguishable. Colour registration was impressive though, with perfect horizontal registration and excellent vertical registration.

The Compaq MP2800 is a commendable improvement over the MP1600, and at £3,675 it also represents excellent value for a DLP-based device. However the MP2800's diminutive size is offset by the need for a partnering notebook, due to the lack of a PC Card slot. New solutions, such as presenting from palmtops, are approaching, but as it stands there are better projectors available for similar money.

Author: Gareth Ogden