MicroVision Inc. has just released the second generation of its SHOWWX laser pico projector that we caught at CES earlier this year. The new SHOWWX+ is powered by the same PicoP display engine and is the same pocket-friendly size as its predecessor, but packs a 50 percent brighter display to project images of up to 250cm (100 in) from mobile devices to provide a (relatively) big screen experience wherever you may be.
Like the SHOWWX, the SHOWWX+ projects 16:9 widescreen images at up to 848 x 480 pixel resolution (WVGA) with a contrast ratio of 5,000:1 and brightness of 15 lumens. With a throw ratio of 1:1 the unit can project images ranging from 15 to 250 cm (6 – 100 inches). MicroVision claims this is the shortest projection distance of any pico projector on the market and its projected images are twice as large as images from competing products from the same projection distance.
The PicoP display engine uses laser-scanning technology to produce images that are always in focus – even on curved surfaces – without the use of complex lenses, color wheels, lamps or LEDs. This technology means the projected images are uniform in brightness, intensity and color saturation from the center of the display to the outer edges and is also the secret to the compact size of the SHOWWX+, which measures 14mm high by 60mm wide by 118mm long (0.55 x 2.36 x 4.65 in) and weighs 122g (4.3 oz).
Being “Made for iPod, iPhone, and iPad,” the device connects to these devices through the use of a single cable. It is also compatible with other devices such as mobile phones, cameras and camcorders via a composite TV/Video-Out adapter, while an optional VGA dock allows it to connect to a laptop or netbook.
Its user replaceable rechargeable battery provides power for up to two hours and is topped up via a Micro-USB cable and will operate off mains power through the included wall charger.
The SHOWWX+ is available now for US$449 from MicroVision.