Hitachi CP-X3010N Network-Projector Unveiled

Hitachi have unveiled their latest networked projector, the CP-X3010N.  Based on the existing X3010, the new projector boasts 3,000 lumen brightness, a 2,000:1 contrast ratio and 16W integrated speakers, but throws in wired ethernet connectivity and optional WiFi b/g.

That new networking functionality means that the projector can be remotely managed from Hitachi's Projector Control Application and Projector Messenger Application.  These allow for remote source control, real-time status feedback, scheduling, synchronization of multiple projectors and the ability to display real-time or stored text messages for using the CP-X3010N as a virtual message board.

Bulb life is rated at 3,000 hours in standard mode or 6,000 hours in eco mode, with the latter boasting quiet operation noise of just 29dBA.  No word on pricing or availability as yet.

Press Release:

Hitachi Leads The Way In Networking Technology With Introduction Of CP-X3010N 3LCD Projector

– New CP-X3010N 3LCD Projector And New Software Updates Highlight Hitachi's Leadership Position In Networking Innovation –

CHULA VISTA, California, August 3, 2009 — Hitachi Home Electronics (America), Inc., Business Group, continues to lead the way in providing end-users with networking capabilities with the introduction of the new CP-X3010N 3LCD projector. Hitachi addresses the growing demand for networking technology with tools that lower the total cost of ownership as a result of added convenience, security and ease of operation.

"With the CP-X3010N being the networkable counterpart to the CP-X3010, Hitachi offers networking options for projectors of all sizes and applications," said John Glad, product manager, Hitachi Home Electronics (America), Inc., Business Group. "In addition, with a variety of network-related functions proprietary to Hitachi, our networking capabilities are renowned in the industry."

The CP-X3010N offers unmatched performance and convenience, with a brightness of 3,000 lumens, a 2000:1 contrast ratio and networking capability. The CP-X3010N features 16 Watts of built-in audio, eliminating the need for external speakers, while maintaining a low noise rating of 29 dBA in Eco Mode. Additionally, the CP-X3010N features a long lamp life of 3,000 hours in Standard Mode and 6,000 hours in Eco Mode.

The CP-X3010N also features Hitachi's proprietary My Buttons functionality, allowing two programmable buttons on the projector to execute any projector command. The CP-X3010N also offers input Source Naming, allowing users to rename input sources to fit their needs. Closed Captioning functionality is also available with the CP-X3010N.

Alongside the introduction of the CP-X3010N, is the release of Hitachi's Projector Management Application (PJMan) Version 7. This proprietary technology provides the functionality to control, diagnose and manage an individual or group of Hitachi projectors from a single location. The ability to produce queries and reports in real time is a new feature of this latest version, providing AV/IT managers with the ability to gather real-time and historical data to analyze projector usage and produce call tickets. PJMan's advanced email, report and scheduling capabilities contribute to the lowest cost of ownership in the industry.

Additionally, Hitachi's Projector Control Application (PJCtrl) allows a user to control the functions of their Hitachi Projector through a toolbar on their desktop or laptop PC. Since all of the functions for controlling the projector are on the PC, PJCtrl helps to reduce costs associated with lost remote controls and battery replacement.

Users can control up to five of the same Hitachi projectors simultaneously and can be customized to suit the user's individual preferences and needs with PJCtrl. It also has an advanced control menu that is ideal for installation and maintenance. Depending on the projector model, users can control Hitachi projectors via a direct RJ-45 connection, an 802.11 b/g wireless connection, or an external Ethernet-to-Serial device.

With the importance of campus security, Hitachi's proprietary My Image functionality allows AV/IT administrators to transfer still images, such as emergency alerts, from a PC to each projector on the network. When the My Image function is utilized, the images are automatically displayed on all the projectors, including the projectors that are not in use at the time. This is ideal for applications in which multiple projectors are networked across a large space, such as a school, campus or large corporate environment. My Image is ideal for sending presentation images ahead to a projector, sending morning announcements to rooms on campus or sending important notifications.

Also, Hitachi's Projector Messenger Application ("PJMessenger") software allows an administrator to send real-time (or stored) text messages that appear on the screen of the projector. This is ideal for sending campus wide announcements and important notifications. When used in conjunction with the scheduling function, notifications can be shown at preset times, making each screen a virtual message board.