A Mighty Mini-Projector

Whereas most portable projectors tend to be about equal in length and width, the LP120 is oblong, measuring 4 inches long by 9.75 inches wide. But the LP120's small size belies its excellent projection power: It boasts the same native XGA (1024 by 768) resolution and 1100 ANSI lumens of brightness as DLP (Digital Light Processing) projectors often twice its size or larger.

My tests of a preproduction LP120 yielded impressive--and amazingly quiet--results. PowerPoint images, digital photos, and various other test images appeared sharp and bright when projected a distance of about 8 feet from machine to screen, making it a good fit for the average small conference room accommodating a dozen or so people.

Besides accepting computer input, the LP120 supports video and audio input, though its built-in 1-watt speaker is incapable of delivering robust sound for a multimedia presentation (or a DVD movie). The bundled remote control offers relatively few functions and lacks access to most of the projector controls. (InFocus provides three different full-featured remotes, but each of these costs extra.)

My test unit came with a protective sleeve for the projector and a pouch for the cables, but no traditional carrying case. (You can, however, upgrade the package to include a custom Coach briefcase for $500 more.) Even without the elegant case, the LP120 isn't cheap; but for people who value good performance and excellent portability, it has the makings of a worthy investment.