Designed with education and small-to-medium-sized business
environments in mind, NEC has announced several new M Series projectors – the M271X, M311X and M311W. These models feature ECO Mode™ technology, a carbon savings meter, extended filter life, and energy-saving features such as quick start up and direct power off.  The projectors consume 12 percent less power in ECO Mode than earlier models.

Another new feature offered is the Wireless Imaging Utility (WIU), which enables users to send images from their iPad directly to the projector. In addition, Crestron Roomview Connect™ provides remote management for multiple networked projectors and also includes emergency messaging capabilities.

NEC’s M271X, M311X and M311W include XGA and WXGA resolutions, between 2700 and 3100 lumens of brightness and a 3000:1 contrast ratio, with a lamp life up to 4000 hours normal – and up to 10,000 hours in ECO Mode. The unit also offers HDMI connectivity, dual computer inputs and a USB viewer.

The M271X, M311X and M311W will be available in December 2012 at an estimated street price of $802, $912, and $989, respectively.

Recent end-user surveys conducted by projector market research firm Pacific Media Associates found that a projector’s “green factor” ranks high on the purchase criteria features list with schools and businesses. In addition, as iPad usage continuse to grow features like NEC’s Wireless Imaging Utility will be important.