MPro 120 Pocket Projector: Review

MPro 120 Pocket Projector

We explore the capabilities of this portable device from 3M

3M is enthusiastic about its latest products, the MPro 120 and MPro 150 Pocket Projectors. Cash-conscientious consumers may have their heads turned by the more economic of the two – the MPro 120. The producer of these innovative technologies, 3M, promises that this device will open up a “whole new world of opportunities for people wanting to present or share digital content anywhere, any time“. But does the MPro 120 deliver on this guarantee? We take a look at that model here, but if you want additional features then check out our boxout on the next page on the higher-end solution.

The MPro 120 Pocket Projector sports upgrades in its new energy-efficient technology. This makes a battery life of up to four hours available before the necessity of recharging, subject to the Brightness mode selected.

Projection power: The MPro 120’s VGA image and 100 per cent colour range promises users one of the highest-quality images of any portable projector currently available

This is a significant upgrade from the previous MPro 110’s single-hour capability. Another important advantage of this second-gen model is its new voice. The MPro 120 comes equipped with two 0.5-watt speakers, which in close quarters handle admirably at delivering clear audio. This is especially suitable for those demonstrating animation and video at small meetings. Liberal use of the speakers will drain the battery life in half the time, however, along with the High Brightness mode.

The MPro 120 Pocket Projector’s native resolution stands at 640 x 480 VGA – that’s around 307 pixels or 0.3 megapixels. This provides attractive projections up to 50-inches diagonally, which show minimal disturbance when addressing smaller image areas such as typography. Liquid Crystal On Silicon (LCOS) technology makes it an acceptable unit for those using it to demonstrate detailed and high-resolution graphics to clients.

However, as this is a portable unit, its maximum 12 lumens (permitted through Enhanced Mode) is as good as it gets. This is minimal in comparison to larger units, yet
still handles light and moving images well.

Suitable stationary: When hooked up to your laptop, the MPro 120 becomes a powerful stationary projector, complemented by attachable tripod and built-in flip stand

But saturated and shadowed image elements are affected adversely. Looking flat at times, it becomes tricky when presenting monochromatic and dynamic exposure effects. While this is fine for quick fire presentations, if you want to convey the quality of your work then you will need to take printouts as well.

The portable nature of this device is a mixed bag and raises interesting questions over its ergonomic functionality. With dimensions of 120mm x 60mm x 24mm, and weighing in at 154 grams, this makes the MPro 120 Pocket Projector easy enough to slip into your pocket for transportation, protected with a tailored leather pouch. 3M states that this “allows you to take it wherever you go.” However, this becomes a moot point when considering you also have to accompany the unit with the AC adaptor for charging the battery, and one metre of computer VGA cable to transfer the images from laptop to projector.

3M also encourages handheld functionality, which seems frivolous at times. It certainly does feel more natural to handle the device like this in a remote sense, flicking between the volume and Brightness settings. But without any mass storage device (like USB) or dock compatibility, it becomes limited. The MPro 120’s front focus button also seems ill-placed when functioning by hand, and would be far more accessible nearer the control dial.

The standard connectivity of the MPro 120 Pocket Projector is good, functioning with most laptops and notebooks. The only drawback here is that it does not come with inclusive Apple connection. This must be purchased as an addition at an extra cost of $36, which is around £23. What is included though is a VGA and component video cable. Couple these with the unit’s fixable miniature tripod – and forgetting the handheld portable tag – and you have yourself a very competent self-contained stationary device. The MPro 120 can also be hooked up to MP3 and DVD players, and even handheld videogame consoles, making it a good addition to your entertainment systems.

For more info log onto www.3m.com