PARK RIDGE, N.J., Nov. 25, 2002 - Sony's new SuperBright™ installation projector presents a "switched on" solution for projection and room integration. At the flip of a switch, the Sony VPL-PX40 projector can power on and display the desired image source using the "Direct Power" feature.

Architects, building consultants, facilities managers, system integrators, contractors and installers will appreciate the VPL-PX40 unit's installation-friendly features, which allow the projector to integrate with the electrical and third-party control system of a classroom, conference room, place of worship, or television set.

The successor to the VPL-PX32 projector, the Sony XGA projector also features 3500 ANSI lumens* of brightness with 265 watt UHP lamp and improved contrast ratio of 700 to 1. It also incorporates newly developed 0.99-inch LCD panels, which feature a new elliptical-shaped optical engine. This new panel design allows almost the equivalent light energy to pass through as larger 1.3-inch panels and allowed Sony to minimize the size of the projector.

The VPL-PX40 system also includes Sony's most comprehensive set of inputs and outputs featured to date in the company's line of portable/installation projectors. The system can accommodate two analog and two digital RGB inputs, an S-video connection, DVI for true digital image processing, as well as five BNC connectors, which allow for synchronized display of all DTV signals and component video from a DVD player. The unit also features monitor-out capability with audio and USB, RS-232C and Control-S functionality. The projector can also handle up to UXGA computer signals.

The unit is also IP addressable and can be linked via the Ethernet for remote desktop management and basic network control. For instance, technicians can view the projector's status such as lamp life and select inputs.

Another reassuring feature is theft protection firmware. The projector can automatically notify the administrator should it be disconnected from the LAN. The password feature is a deterrent, helping to prevent theft or unauthorized use of the projector.

In the versatility department, the VPL-PX40 projector can also be mounted to a ceiling or used in a rear-screen application. For installation or portable use, the unit weighs 15 pounds and measures 16 5/8 (w) x 4 5/8 (h) x 12 1/2 (d) inches.

"The VPL-PX40 SuperBright projector is an extension of our popular PX-30 series, which has been a top performer and workhorse for many Fortune 1000 companies," explained Jonathan Holmes, marketing manager for Sony Electronics' SuperBright projectors. "The PX-30 line has been a focal point of Dow Chemical's conference rooms, and a display engine for Boston University classrooms, as well as a staple of the rental and staging market. With the packed feature set and its excellent integration design, we aim to continue to set the bar for installation projectors with the Sony VPL-PX40 projector."

Now available, the Sony VPL-PX40 SuperBright projector has a suggested list price of $8,200.

*ANSI lumens is a measuring method developed for the American National Standards Institute. Since there is no uniform method of reporting brightness, specifications will vary among manufacturers.