Interactive pen
The Acer S5201M is a new interactive short throw, DLP-based XGA projector rated at 3000 lumens. It provides refined image quality at a street price under $800. The short throw design easily fits a big picture into a small room, the S5201M can produce an image that is 1.6 times wide as the distance of the projector from the screen. The projector includes a full complement of features, including the Acer SmartPen and virtual whiteboard software, 3D capability, dual HDMI inputs and a 4,000 hour eco lamp life. The Acer S5210M makes it easy to engage the audience with a big and bright image, a short throw that provides minimal image interference and a unique software package that enables on-screen interaction between the audience and the presenter.
Best Application:
The short throw design and XGA resolution make the S5210M best suited for the professional or educational environment. The case size (11.4"x10"x3.9") and near 8 pound weight are appropriate for fixed location or room to room use. With a fixed lens (no zoom function), the image size is adjusted by physically moving the projector. A mobile cart is a good solution for the classroom while office users will want to make sure available mounting locations provide a suitable screen size.
I tested the projector in several different conference rooms. The projector was a great fit for small 4 person breakout rooms that contain a single circular table. Placing the projector at the table edge provided only three feet of throw distance, yet the S5210M generated engaging 70" diagonal image. Comparatively, a standard throw projector with a 2:1 throw ratio would provide an image diagonal of only 23". Selecting the "light yellow" Wall Color image preset improved image color balance when using the beige wall as a screen.
I used the projector to give a presentation in a small executive office using only the included media player and a flash drive. Leaving the laptop at my desk allowed me to go from a cold start to presenting in about a minute. Additionally, I did not have to deal with toting around a laptop or connecting the laptop to the projector. The remote control worked perfectly to advance the slides and its built-in laser pointer was handy
