Sony Launches New Installation Projector with Expanded Network Capability

Amsterdam, 26 January 2005 – Sony today announces the launch of its new LCD projector, the VPL-PX41. The projector is packed with features designed to meet the requirements of diverse users in corporate, educational and rental environments. It is suited for use as a stand-alone display, integration in larger systems and connection to a Local Area Network (LAN).

The network functionality of the VPL-PX41 allows the projector to be controlled and monitored from a remote location. When the VPL-PX41 is connected to a LAN, users or administrators can check its status, control the projector and change settings via a web browser at any time, from any location. E-mail reports are easy to set up, which will alert the user or equipment manager of any problems or errors immediately and prevent maintenance and lamp replacement being forgotten. Up to four email addresses can be included in the email recipients' list. These features save time and money and ensure that any issues are noticed early, not when the projector is switched on at the beginning of an important meeting or event. The VPL-PX41 supports SNMP, the industry standard protocol for management and maintenance of equipment on LANs.

As the successor to the VPL-PX40, this new Sony LCD projector guarantees the same high performance levels. The VPL-PX41 has a brightness of 3500 ANSI lumens and a contrast ratio of 700:1. Native resolution is 1024 x 768 (XGA) and it can accept signals up to 1600 x 1200 (UXGA). It also has a comprehensive set of inputs and outputs. These include two RGB (15 pin D-sub) inputs, a DVI-D digital input, a 5BNC input, four audio inputs, one monitor output (15 pin D-sub) and one audio output.

The VPL-PX41 can be controlled via RS-232C and Control-S. A USB connection allows control of a PC presentation using the remote control supplied with the projector. The ‘Direct Power On/Off' function can be set to skip the standby mode, so that the projector can be turned on or off using a mains switch. A cooling fan continues to work after the power is cut, ensuring that the lamp is not damaged.

The ‘Off & Go' function is of importance to anyone planning to move the VPL-PX41 between various rooms or locations. As the fan continues to work after the projector is switched off, it allows for fast build down after events and will protect the projector and lamp if inexperienced users unplug the power supply immediately after use. Rental customers and mobile users will be pleased to hear that the projector has an inbuilt handle to improve portability.

The three optional lenses designed for the VPL-PX35 and VPL-PX40 are also compatible with the VPL-PX41, allowing huge adaptability to the requirements of different rooms and set-up environments. The projector can be used for front and rear projection and can be placed on the floor or mounted on the ceiling. The projector can be tilted freely, upwards or downwards to 90 degrees, expanding its application possibilities to include, for example, use with holographic screens in Point of Sale (POS) displays.

"Sony has a vast amount of experience in the projector market and knows that system integration projects and rental customers place high demands on the equipment used," said Hans Mastenbroek, Director Sony Displays of Sony Europe. "We have designed the VPL-PX41 to be as versatile as possible, with an extensive set of features and newly added network functionality to help our customers make the most of their investment. The superb image quality and robust yet stylish design make this projector an ideal choice for virtually any installation environment."

The VPL-PX41 comes supplied with a 3-year PrimeSupport pack, which offers unique extra services and benefits.

• 3-years support covering labour and parts
• Free telephone helpdesk, offering support in 5 languages (English, French, German, Italian, Spanish)
• Collection and delivery anywhere in EU, Norway or Switzerland

Available across Europe from April 2005.