InFocus LP330

On a projector of this size you won't find a motorised lens but, then again, it's likely to be within arms reach anyway. Zooms are rare too in this form factor, although InFocus has squeezed in a basic adjustment range of about 1.3 times. For a 1.5m diagonal image, you'll have to place the LP330 about 8ft away, and to achieve the maximum claimed diagonal size of 14.5m, you're looking at projecting about 30ft away.

InFocus and NEC provide composite and S-Video inputs, whereas for video support on the Compaq you'll need to buy an optional adaptor. The LP330's remote control can take over your PC's mouse pointer by connecting the projector to your serial or USB port. The 330 also has basic built-in audio facilities, which saves you carrying a pair of speakers around with you.

Our LP330 didn't lock onto the basic DOS signal supplied by PCs as they start up, although InFocus claims it is updating the display software to handle it. Admittedly, DOS support is far from anyone's mind who is buying an XGA ultra portable, but I certainly missed the reassuring on-screen comments as my system started up.

Once in Windows the LP330 shines. The image is extremely sharp, clear and uniform, and surprisingly bright considering the 650 Lumen rating. However, the most remarkable thing is the size and weight - the LP330 is tiny and, with its quiet fan, appealingly discrete.

If you can justify spending five grand on an ultra-portable projector, you certainly won't be disappointed by the LP330. The competition from Compaq is exceptionally strong. However, at these prices the slightly larger NEC's fuller feature set and ultimately brighter image makes it a better option.

Author: Gordon Laing