Optoma mini-projectors
and iPads are great travel companions.
Optoma mini-projectors like the ML300 and ML500 are an excellent match for the iPad. Just as the iPad falls between a smartphone and a notebook computer, mini-projectors have capabilities between those of traditional portable projectors and pico projectors. Both devices are more than good enough for most applications, making them an excellent way to travel light.
Connection Options
Optoma ML300 and ML500 mini projectors have a Video Graphics Adapter and a miniature or full-size High Definition Multimedia Interface connector. The iPad doesn't have either of these ports but it has either a Lightning connector or, on first-, second- and third-generation units, a dock connector. Apple makes adapters for both to let you connect your iPad to either VGA or HDMI connections and Optoma offers an iOS device connection kit as well.
Carrying the System
An iPad weighs between 1.4 and 1.5 pounds and an Optoma mini projector weighs between 1.4 and 2.5 pounds. Together, they weigh between three and four pounds, which is roughly equivalent to the weight of a small portable projector or a very light notebook computer. While neither is small enough to fit in a pocket, together they are still small and light enough to easily fit in a briefcase or a carry-on bag.
Projection Applications
Given the limited 300 or 500 lumen light output of the ML300 and ML500 projectors, they aren't suited for filling a large screen in a brightly lit room. They are perfect for small group presentations, though. In addition, their low light output makes them a good match for straightforward business content with high visual contrast, like that generated by a spreadsheet or a presentation program running on the iPad.
Resolution Issues
Both the ML300 and ML500 projectors have widescreen displays that are 1280 pixels wide and 800 pixels tall. The iPad, on the other hand, has a standard-aspect display that is still rectangular, but is taller and thinner. With this disparity in mind, the iPad's image will not fill the full field of vision on an Optoma projector, requiring you to project the extra unused pixels off of the edge of your screen.
Disclaimer
This piece refers to the Fourth Generation iPad with Retina Display and Optoma ML300 and ML500 projectors available in early 2013. Technology changes rapidly and new products from either company could have different features or dimensions. Optoma Technology, Inc., headquartered in California, is not affiliated with Johnson Controls, maker of Optima brand automotive batteries, or any other product named Optima.
Tags: ML300 ML500, ML300 ML500 projectors, ML500 projectors, between pounds, light output, notebook computer, Optoma mini-projectors
