Epson PowerLite S5 Projector Gets Bright

Epson has announced its PowerLite S5 multimedia projector, offering SVGA resolution, 3LCD technology, 2,000 lumens, and HDTV support for less than $650.

Epson has formally taken the wraps off its PowerLite S5 multimedia projector, bringing a strong selection of features to a lightweight unit to be offered for just $649.

“The PowerLite S5 brings versatility, power and affordability to entrepreneurs, educators, and business professionals alike,” said Heather Litus, Epson America’s A/V product manager, in a release. “Presenters will benefit from the ease-of-use, flexibility, and industry-leading image quality and performance that are inherent in Epson’s award-winning projectors and 3LCD technology.”

The PowerLite S5 uses high-aperature 3LCD technology to offer strong color reproduction and crisp images, along with the ability to throw images at brightnesses up to 2,000 lumens. The unit can handle SVGA resolution (800 by 600 pixels), but can also handle 720p and 1080i HDTV, and offers a 1.3× digital zoom. The PowerLite S5 supports instant on/instant off so presenters can start up right away, and pack up four seconds after turning the unit off without waiting through a cool-down period. The unit also features a 4,000-hour lamp life, a 400:1 contrast ratio, and an A/V mute to briefly stop a presentation—or put the kibosh on games instantly so the kids will finally come to the dinner table. Users can connect the PowerLite S5 using standard D-sub 15-pin connectors, S-Video, or composite connectors; the unit also supports USB for keyboard and mouse control.

Overall, the PowerLite S5 may not support all the bells and whistles of many projectors on the market, but nor does it tout the high price tag: Epson is selling the PowerLite S5 for $649 with a two-year limited warranty, and it’s available now.