Hitachi America recently announced four new 3LCD Ultra Short Throw projectors. The LP-AW4001, LP-AW3001 and interactive LP-TW4001 and LP-TW3001 models further expand Hitachi’s line of solid state light source projectors. These new Ultra-Short Throw projectors are geared towards education, house of worship and corporate applications.

These new 4,200 lumen laser projectors feature WXGA 1280×800 resolution, 500,000 : 1 contrast ratio and are equipped with Long Life 2 Mode that allows for up to 50,000 hours of virtually maintenance-free operation. They also offer the latest in connectivity options with HDMI and HDMI/MHL inputs, VGA and Composite inputs, RS232-C control connectivity, RJ45 LAN and Wireless LAN capabilities, and support for USB-A for PC-less presentations. Additional features include a digital 1.35 zoom lens, manual focus and horizontal and vertical keystone correction. The projector also includes a 16W speaker.

Finally, all four models feature Hitachi’s proprietary technology including the Accentualizer which is designed for the projected image to appear more real by enhancing sharpness, gloss and shade. In addition, Hitachi’s Perfect Fit 2 technology allows end users and integrators to save time on installation.

Hitachi’s LP-AW3001, LP-AW4001 and interactive LP-TW3001 and LP-TW4001 are all backed by a three-year warranty. These new models will begin shipping in July.

Display industry analyst firm PMA Research follows the projection market and has noted the solid-state projection market to be one of the fastest growing product segments. Sales of mainstream professional solid-state models (models between 1,000 and 5,000 lumens) are forecast to grow exponentially over the next five years.