Epson Launches Sub-$1000 Multimedia Projector

May 2003 – Epson today announced a major breakthrough in the digital projector market with the introduction of the $999 EPSON PowerLite S1. This powerful 1,200 ANSI-lumen, portable projector offers not only a new level of affordability designed to attract a broader range of customers, but also provides a level of performance and style to complement numerous presentation environments and video applications. Furthermore, value is maximized with a high-end feature set that includes Epson’s two-year warranty, high-quality carrying case and a lamp rated at 2,000 hours that is replaceable for only $199.

The EPSON PowerLite S1 uses three new Epson 0.5-inch LCD panels to project a wide variety of computer and video images in SVGA (800 x 600) native resolution with a contrast ratio of 400:1 for blacker blacks and whiter whites. Its sleek and stylish, new exterior is designed to offer more than just an attractive look; it also dramatically reduces light leakage, which contributes to extremely quiet operation, as low as 33db. Furthermore, the light seven-pound weight and slide-out handle makes it easy to move from one location to another.

“The PowerLite S1 not only represents the best value we’ve ever offered in a new projector in terms of price-to-performance, but it’s also a very attractive and easy-to-use device that doesn’t sacrifice Epson’s renowned levels of quality and reliability,” said Aaron Marinari, product manager, Epson America. “A product such as this truly represents a breakthrough in our industry and demonstrates that projectors are no longer just expensive presentation tools or rare PC peripherals you’d normally only find in select offices or classrooms.”

Reassuring Set Up and Easy-to-Use Operation
In addition to breakthrough pricing, high performance and stylish aesthetics, the PowerLite S1 is extremely easy to set up, and is designed to provide reassurance to users who might feel nervous or anxious prior to giving presentations. Presenters can set up the projector quickly with easy-to-find, color-coded connections and a few simple buttons on the control panel. When the power button is pressed, a verification tone lets them know immediately that the power is actually “on,” and in only about six seconds, the projector’s image will already begin to appear on the screen. Presenters can even overcome the challenge of small rooms with limited throw distance by projecting a 60-inch image - from only 50 inches away.

Basic image adjustments can be made in seconds with features such as digital keystone correction (+/- 15 degrees) and by using a newly designed and simple series of menus that are accessible with one push of a button on the upper panel of the projector. The new menu interface is designed for simple, intuitive operation and significantly reduces in size once users start making image adjustments, thus enabling them to see and view more of the picture as they make alterations. Classroom presenters will especially be pleased with a monitor-out feature that enables them to view the content on the projector from a separate display device, eliminating the need to keep looking away from students while teaching.

Shutting down the PowerLite S1 is quick and easy since its cool-off period has been reduced to 20 seconds or less, enabling presenters to quickly and safely store or move the projector to its next destination. The projector’s high-quality carrying case is also equipped to store not only the projector but also any necessary cables and the PowerLite S1’s full-featured remote control.

Since many presenters often bring projectors home for entertainment purposes, such as watching movies or playing video games, Epson has employed several video features including a high-end component video input and pre-programmed color modes that enhance images associated with different applications and video sources. These modes, as well as the aspect ratio (either standard 4:3, or wide format 16:9 video) can be selected with the push of one button on the remote control.

Elite Support and Warranty Program
The EPSON PowerLite S1’s valuable two-year limited warranty includes two elite technical support services: the two-year Epson Private Line, and two-year Road Service Program. Through the Private Line, projector owners can directly access an exclusive expedited support telephone line (typically in about one minute) by using a phone card that is included with the product. In the event that a projector should need to be repaired, Epson’s Road Service Program can replace the product usually within 24 hours in the United States and Canada.

Availability
The PowerLite S1 will be available in June 2003 for $999 through national retailers, pro audio/visual dealers, mail order, and PC resellers.

Presenters can also find valuable information by visiting Epson’s Presenters Online Web site (www.presentersonline.com) for immediate access to presentation tips, tools and techniques, innovative PowerPoint templates, useful clip art, and links to services especially suited for today’s busy road warrior. For more information on Epson’s current projector product line, customers can call 1-800-442-1977 or visit the company’s website at http://www.epson.com.

SOURCE Epson

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