BenQ’s New MP Short-Throw Projector Series Deliver Bigger Pictures with Half the Traditional Projection Distance

MP512 ST and MP522 ST Create Novel Experiences for Small Meeting Rooms, SOHO, Gaming

KUALA LUMPUR, August 6, 2008 – BenQ launched its MP Short-throw Projector Series today with the release of two new short-distance models – the MP512 ST created specially for home entertainment and gaming and MP522 ST for the classroom and meeting room environment. These latest short-throw projectors from BenQ complement the MP771 which debuted last November. Each projector uses unique aspherical lens for projecting bigger images at a closer range, all without compromising picture quality. With distinguishable features, BenQ’s MP Short-throw projectors are the ultimate solutions for places with space constraints.

“When BenQ first began to develop its short-throw projector series not so long ago, it has already broken new grounds with innovating the MP771,” said Ms Chee Fui Chung, General Manager of BenQ Service and Marketing (M) Sdn Bhd. “These two new models – MP512 ST and MP522 ST - are exciting extensions to their predecessor. They are made affordable and come with the functionality and design unlike others in the market!”

Like all of the models under the MP5 series, the design concept of these two new models introduced today was inspired by the full-bodied lines of the Saab Aero X concept car. The raised lines along the sides of the projectors and the curved back design clearly mimic the European sports car. Short-Throw Projection Opens Big PossibilitiesShort-throw projectors solve the obvious problem of delivering big-screen viewing in cramped quarters where wall-to-wall distances are short. Being a strong performer for everyday projection needs for office presentations, the BenQ MP522 ST solves space concerns by projecting 55’ screen image at 1 meter distance in small meeting rooms. This model also ensures ample brightness and clarity for all work as well as play applications made possible by the 2000 ANSI lumens and XGA (1024x768) fine resolution for text and graphs.

For home entertainment and gaming, the MP512 ST lets the family move freely about without interfering with the image being displayed, a benefit that is especially evident when watching movies or playing interactive gaming systems such as Nintendo’s Wii. For movie-watching, the short-throw distance, which is half that of conventional projectors, ensures getting up will not disrupt the movie. Two integrated 5-watt speakers, comprehensive connectivity including future-proof HDMI (HDCP), 2200 ANSI lumens and 2500:1 contrast ratio all make the MP512 ST the perfect home entertainment companion for movies, PlayStation3®, Xbox 360® and more. The stylish, sleek snow-white design compliments any home décor.

With the ability to project an incredible 74” image from just a meter away, the MP771 creates more usable space in public display, hospitality and education environment, even in crowded venues. Viewers and presenters are able to move freely in the space behind the projector without crossing the projection path. Standing behind the projector also prevents the presenter’s shadow from being cast on the screen and eliminates the health risks of the bright lamp shining into the presenter’s eyes. A practical 5W speaker and exceptional value fit the bill for SMB, SOHO and education, while its award-winning design makes an impressive statement in professional corporate settings

The Short Throw MP771 features a powerful 3,000-lumen lamp for super bright, vivid pictures under virtually any lighting condition, a high 2000:1 contrast ratio and the leading-edge UNISHAPE® technology. The UNISHAPE® technology is able to vary the intensity of the projector lamp in synchronization with its digital mirror device (DMD) and color wheel, allowing an increase of 40% in brightness and boosts specific colors in different setting modes.

Short On Distance, Long on Features The MP Short-Throw Series is characterized by a long list of thoughtful features that make short- throw projection brilliant and convenient. Common among all three models is Texas Instruments®’ Digital Light Processing® (DLP) technology for sharper fine details, easy-to-read text and consistent, never-fade colors. Plus, the color is optimized by an advanced 6-segment Golden Ratio color wheel and BrilliantColor™ technology, which boosts brightness by up to 50% and drastically amplifies mid-tone hues. Users can customize color preference with BenQ’s 3D Color Management – an exclusive advancement for independent adjustment of hue, saturation and boldness.

Plus, whatever the venue, audiences will experience greater projection enjoyment courtesy of the projectors’ ultra-quiet, class-leading noise level of just 26/31dB (Eco/Norm modes). The experience is further elevated via HDTV compatibility that supports for up to 1080i. For video, the MP512ST and MP522ST feature a Closed Caption option to enhance viewing for those with hearing concerns, for noisy classroom environment and for those who want to learn a new language.

A suite of features tailored for teachers, administrators and busy professionals include Presentation Timer, Quick Auto Search (the industry’s fastest source detection), 30-second Quick Cooling, Panel Key Lock, Security Password and OnScreen FAQ – all which allow users to focus on a perfect presentation instead of fumbling with setup. Wall Color Correction, Blackboard Mode and 11 preset picture modes ensure optimized color and image quality.
The new BenQ short-throw projectors – MP512 ST and MP522 ST will be retailed at RM2,499 and RM2,999, respectively, while the MP771 model is priced at RM7,999. For more information, please visit BenQ.com.my.