Runco announces a solution allowing for more flexible projector installations-- the "Ultra" series, adding longer throw distances to a number of popular projector models.

Projectors include the the 3Dimension D-73d Ultra, LightStyle LS-HB Ultra, QuantumColor Q-750d Ultra and QuantumColor Q-1500d Ultra, with throw ratios ranging from 2.40 to 4.00 (depending on projector and lens). In comparison, standard models have throws of 1.85-2.40.

The company says Ultra versions provide higher sharpness and lower colour distortion at longer distances from the screen, making it easier to conceal and integrate the projector into a home's decor. The new series should also be ideal for multi-use rooms (or "flex-theatres") and even outdoors, all while Runco assures video quality remains of top quality.

Go Runco Adds New Ultra Options to Projection Lines

FAVI says the E3 LED-Pico projector is geared for gaming, home theatre and business travel use, with WVGA native resolution (854x480) displaying images of up to 110" in size and a 1.59 throw ratio.

It features DLP technology, with 50 lumens of brightness via LED lamp and 1000:1 contrast ratio. Audio comes through either integrated speaker or headphone jack. It plays media on SD/SDHC/MMC cards (up to 32GB) and also has 128MB of internal memory.

The internal battery provides up to 2 hours of playtime (on "eco" mode), extendable by plugging the device into any active USB port.

Ideal as a stocking filler just in time for the holiday season, the package comes complete with remote control, carry case and tripod.

Go FAVI E3 DLP Pocket Projector

BenQ launches the second generation of the Joybee pico-style mini LED projector-- the Joybee GP2, now with a dedicated iDevice dock.

It produces up to 200 ANSI lumens of brightness, and BenQ says it produces WXGA-resolution images on a 160" screen with 2400:1 contrast ratio and a 1.13 short-throw ratio. Audio comes through either built-in 2W speakers or external speakers via audio out port.

Connectivity also comes through USB (with USB storage compatibility), mini HDMI port and SD card reader.

Go BenQ Joybee GP2

Pacific Media Associates (PMA) reports the Q3 2011 WW front projector market grows by 13% Q-o-Q and reaches total shipments of 2.4M units, as personal projectors and 3D-ready models drive growth.

The analyst divides the projector market into 3 brightness ranges-- New Era, Mainstream and High-End.

Driving the New Era market are Personal Projectors, highly mobile units powered by "power bricks," with Q3 2011 sales growing by 30% Y-o-Y. The category features models with brightness reaching 500 lumens and covers over 15 brands.

The Mainstream (500-4999 lumens) category shows positive Y-o-Y growth in Q3, despite an uncertain economic climate and austere corporate, government and education budgets hitting most developed markets. PMA reports "upside surprises" in countries such as France, Spain and Switzerland, as well as a sharp rebound across most of E. Europe and strength in BRIC countries.

PMA forecasts 3D projector sales will reach around 2.5M in 2011, as more 3D-ready units enter the market at price points similar to 2D models. Interactive and ultra-short throw models also continue outperforming the over market on both unit and revenue basis.

Finally, High-End (5000+ lumens) projectors also outpace the overall market, with the WW Q3 2011 d-cinema market reaching 60000 installations. Currently the market continues shifting towards Wide XGA and Wide UXGA models, particularly in developed markets.

Go WW Q3 2011 Projector Market Report (PMA)