At the Government Video Technology Expo Sony unveiled the latest powerhouse display in its FX series - the VPL-FX51 SuperSmart projector. Now, audiences can see even more dynamic computer and video display compared with its previous model and presenters can take command of this IP addressable networkable projector, while technicians have added control to conduct remote monitoring.

The new XGA large-screen projector is able to output 5,200 ANSI lumens, 67% brighter than the company's prior model. The leap in brightness can be attributed to a new lamp and optical engine. The new 1.3-inch LCD panels, together with a Micro Lens Array and a 300-watt UHP lamp, helps produce images with remarkable color fidelity.

"The VPL-FX51 projector has the power to connect with audiences like never before," said Jonathan Holmes, marketing manager for Sony Electronics' SuperSmart projectors. "Architects, building consultants, facilities managers, system integrators, contractors and installers will appreciate the installation-friendly design with its center-mount lens and ease of integration with third-party control systems, along with the superb image display and remote monitoring features. The projector will surely find a home in a number of auditoriums, classrooms, conference rooms, places of worships and government facilities."

The projector's screen coverage extends from 40 to 300 inches (viewable area, measured diagonally). It also can accommodate a variety of lenses, including optional solutions for long-distance projection in large auditoriums to short-distance rear-screen projection applications, which is possible due to the unit's flexibility to be tilted 90 degrees upwards or downwards.

Input signals accepted by the VPL-FX51 SuperSmart projector include: S-video, composite and component video, DTV and HDTV signals (480/60i, 575/50i, 480/60p, 575/50p, 720/60p, 720/50p, 1080/60i, 1080/50i), as well as computer signals up to UXGA. The projector features a five-BNC connector input for analog signals and a digital RGB input for the direct transfer of digital and analog signals from a PC. The unit also has monitor-out capability with audio, USB, RS-232C, Control-S and a LAN connection for remote control.

For video, an Interlace/Progressive conversion system turns interlace signals into progressive scan images for a clear display. With 2-3 pull-down capability, each frame is accurately reproduced to mirror the original film source.

The VPL-FX51 SuperSmart projector is IP addressable and can be linked via the Ethernet for remote desktop management and full network control. For instance, technicians can view the projector's status such as lamp life and select inputs. They can also schedule and generate automatic e-mail reports about key projector functions.

A presenter with a PC on the same network can communicate with the projector via a web browser. It supports a variety of file formats. Using the bundled application software, it can display PowerPoint, Excel, Word, JPEG, GIF, BMP and PNG images. With the projector's on-board Windows CE operating system, presentation files can stored in the unit's memory, enabling a presenter to present without a PC.

The projector can be mounted to a ceiling or used in a rear-screen application. The unit weighs approximately 23 pounds and measures 19 (w) x 6 5/8 (h) x 19 7/8 (d) inches.