BIOS: Technology Means Business

ViewSonic is pretty chuffed that its latest DLP protector boasts a brightness of 2700 ANSI lumens and a high contrast ratio of 2000:1, making it suitable for large boardrooms or other business environments. However, the PJ755D has an optical resolution of just 1024x768 pixels (XGA), so it's not really suitable for those who work with fine graphics, such as schematics. The PJ755D is based on a 0.7in 'DDR' Digital Micromirror Device (DMD), which promises around 20 per cent more contrast than previous generation chips. It has a 4:3 ratio with a 16:9 mode for home cinema use. Connectivity options are reasonable, comprising RGB-in, RGB-out, DVI-HDCP, component video, S-Video, composite-Video, RS-232 and USB, but there's no network connectivity options. A claimed noise level of 33dB and 30dB in whisper mode is average, so it may be a little too loud for quiet environments of for frequent movie playback. If you need a more powerful all-rounder for business use, take a look at Epson's EMP-7900NL (£2699 ex. VAT, without lens), which boasts a brightness of 4000 ANSI lumens (albeit low contrast ratio of 700:1) and is networkable.

Pros: Reasonable value; relatively bright; high contrast ratio
Cons: XGA resolution; no network options

Edited Release: With the PJ755D projector, ViewSonic, a worldwide leader in visual display products, presents a new, feature-packed DLP multimedia projector. Its high performance attributes make it an excellent choice for executive suites, conference rooms and lecture halls as well as for the ambitious home entertainment fan that values top-spec technology within their own four walls.

Thanks to the remarkable power of 2700 lumens, the PJ755D ensures optimal depictions even in bright environments. The 3.4kg model features a native resolution of 1024x768 and boasts a 2000:1 contrast ratio. Razor-sharp projections in rich, vivid colour are possible up to a diagonal in excess of six metres. And while its performance levels are extremely high, at just 33dB (or 30dB in whisper mode), fan noise is pleasantly low.

Besides ports for the PC and laptop (both analogue and digital), the PJ755D features S-Video, component and composite connectors, facilitating numerous options for diverse multimedia presentations; HDTV signals is also catered for. Due to digital keystone correction (both horizontal and vertical), a short focal length and zoom function, obtaining the optimal display settings in virtually any venue is easy.

Installation of the projector is a cinch too - even for those not very tech savvy. The press of a button is all it takes. Settings can be adjusted via the easy-to-use, intuitive menu. Lamp life of the 250-Watt bulb is rated at 4000 hours in whisper mode. That's enough for 500 full-day business meetings or 2600 movies of average length.

ViewSonic offers an exceptionally generous three year warranty, with an on-site exchange service included. In the case of a necessary repair, users needn't wait for weeks as is often the case elsewhere. In most instances, a replacement projector will be provided within 48 hours. This level of service is currently offered by only a very small number of other manufacturers.

The PJ755D is available now at specialist dealers and e-tailers. It is shipped with a remote control (with integrated mouse and laser pointer), a comprehensive A/V connection cable kit as well as a soft carry bag.