Sharp Notevision PG-M15S

Joining companies like Compaq and Toshiba, Sharp has added an ultraportable data projector to its product lineup. However, where some models have made sacrifices for the sake of portability, there appears to be nothing missing from the Notevision PG-M15S's feature set. In fact, it even manages to include some features that aren't even included on larger models.

Weighing just 1.6kg, Sharp's PG-M15S uses a single chip Digital Light Processor (DLP) to provide a native resolution of 800 by 600 pixels. An XGA version, the PG-M15X, is also available for £3,995 (ex. VAT). This, combined with a 120W High Intensity Discharge (HID) lamp, gives the unit an impressive level of brightness, rated at 1,100 lumens by the manufacturer, and a quoted contrast ratio of 500:1.

As well as being lightweight, the Notevision is small, with a footprint of 225 by 177mm and a thickness of 66mm. This isn't as compact as some other products, such as the InFocus LP130, but doesn't detract from its portability and the magnesium alloy casing gives it a solid, robust feel.

Both digital and analogue PC connections are supported via the DVI-I port at the rear, as well as composite and S-Video connectors for alternative video equipment. The PG-M15S is also unusual in that it provides a signal pass-through (15-pin VGA), so you can use a PC with a single analogue VGA output without losing the use of the monitor.

It can project an image of over 6m wide at its furthest throw. However, a narrower beam means this requires a projection distance of over 10m, making it less suitable for presentations in smaller rooms. However, the PG-M15S does have an integrated 2W speaker.

An adjustable foot at the rear helps you to adjust the tilt of the unit in both directions, something else that's often overlooked on ultraportable projectors.

Image quality is very good. Like all DLP-based products, uniformity is excellent and, unlike LCD projectors, misconvergence isn't an issue, even in the corners of the display. Detail is sharp, with no colour streaking and only the faintest ghosting noticeable under close inspection. For non-native resolutions a variety of image rescaling options are provided, but can be disabled if you prefer a clearer, 1:1 pixel ratio.

A fault that it shares with some of its competitors is fan noise, a byproduct of cramming a high-temperature lamp into such a small space. However, where other products become too hot to touch after prolonged use, the PG-M15S stays significantly cooler.

Taking size and resolution into account, it's hard to fault the Notevision PG-M15S. The longer throw length can be an advantage or a disadvantage depending on requirements, and fan noise is a price you have to pay for miniaturisation.

There are slightly smaller projectors capable of higher resolutions, but if you don't need an XGA resolution, then this would make an excellent, and less expensive, choice.

Contact

Sharp: Sharp House, Thorp Road, Manchester M40 5BE
Tel 0161 205 2333, Fax 0161 205 7076
www.sharp.co.uk

See also:

Sanyo PLC-SW20

This LCD projector's low cost belies its good image quality and features.  13 Mar 2003

Sharp launches Linux PDA

First commercially available open source OS handheld  18 Apr 2002

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