BIOS: Technology Means Business

Sony's latest projector includes enhanced wireless networking capabilities for permanent and mobile presentation applications. Not only that, but the attractive white-and-silver VPL-CX76's (£1290 ex. VAT) design (298x245x70mm) is outstanding and the matching laser pointer/slide navigator (there's also a full-size remote control) is perhaps the coolest projector accessory we've ever seen. The downside is that the projector has a native resolution of just 1024x768 pixels and there are no digital input/output connectors.

One of five recently-launched projectors (the range also comprises the VPL-CX20A, VPL-CS20A, VPL-CX86 and VPL-PX41), the VPL-CX76 is designed to make an impression - both on the user and its audience. Perfect for corporate meetings and rental markets, the VPL-CX76 incorporates Sony's enhanced Air Shot technology providing 802.11b/g wireless networking capability for even faster wireless presentation capability.

Sony's new VPL-CX76 wireless video projector successfully bridges the gap between networked sophistication and first-time-presenter simplicity. Sony's Air Shot v2 technology greatly improves conventional wireless communication, simplifying wireless presentation without any technical knowledge. With the supplied wireless function kits, data can be instantly transmitted to the projector. Cables are no longer tangled over the table.

Weighing only 2.9kg, the 2500 ANSI Lumen (350:1 contrast ratio) VPL-CX76 is light and robust enough to be easily transported between meeting rooms or used as an entry-level install unit. PC-independent presentations are also possible through the use of MemoryStick flash media.

Using the Air Shot function, networking also enables easy projection of images by up to five projectors from a single PC source. Sony's advanced menu of Advanced Intelligent Auto Set-up functions - Auto Lens, Auto Tilt, Auto Input Search, Auto Keystone Correction, Auto Pixel Alignment and Auto Focus - enable each function to be initiated as soon as you turn on the projector, so you don't have to worry about setting up the device. Manual settings include a horizontal keystone adjustment that allows you to project off-centre from the wall or screen you're using.

The VPL-CX76 uses a triple LCD imaging system, also known as 3LCD. The relatively new 3LCD Group is formed of six projector manufacturers (Fujitsu, Hitachi, Panasonic, Sanyo and Sony) and headed up by Epson, from whom the 3LCD logo is licensed. 3LCD is an alternative projection system to DLP that uses three LCD panels, also known as high-temperature polysilicon or HTPS. Images projected with 3LCD are bright, natural and are easy on the eyes, although the technology is far from new.

The projector's relatively low fan noise of 37dB allows a speaker's voice to be heard more clearly, but the range of connectivity options are relatively limited. For instance, the model is equipped with a single analogue video input connector, S-Video and composite video inputs, as well as an audio-in jack, MemoryStick PRO/DUO and PC Card slots. It does come with a USB 802.11g wireless network adapter however, which also doubles as a USB memory key, and a small CompactFlash-sized wireless adapter for the projector itself.

Unfortunately, there's no digital or component video inputs, or even an RGB monitor output connector for driving the projected image and your computer monitor without requiring an external control system. There's no built-in 10/100Base-TX NIC, HDMI input and audio output either. On a more positive note, a variety of installation options are available through a choice of ceiling-mount, floor-mount, or rear-projection capabilities and a choice of three interchangeable optional lenses. The projector can also throw an image size of 40- to 300-inches from 1.20- to 10.40m, so it's perfect for small mid-sized rooms. To keep the projector secure, it comes equipped with password protection that prompts users for a predetermined password before it will operate fully.

The projector has built-in mono sound, but this gives limited volume. If high quality or high volume sound is required then you should consider connecting it to an amplifier or surround sound system. Alternatively, computer sound can be played through your existing speakers which is normally adequate for computer presentations in small rooms. It has a lamp life of approximately 3000 hours, which is good as most projectors have a lamp life of around 2000 hours. Replacement lamps cost around £340 (inc. VAT) to replace.

The image quality of the VPL-CX76 was very good in our tests, with a bright image and rich colours. Images looked impressive in a room with low ambient lighting, but contrast was fairly poor at only 350:1 - this isn't a projector for fast-moving movies or videogames! Still, for most on-the-road presenters who need a projector, the VPL-CX76 excellent combination of portability, style, and wireless networking option make it a great travelling companion. [8.5]