BenQ MX 880 UST

This ultra short throw (UST) projector can turn your bedroom into a mini theatre

Projectors used to be expensive, bulky machines that could only be used in large rooms. Then came short throw projectors that could project a 2 metre wide picture onto a screen that was just a metre away from the device. But soon enough, our desire for larger images grew bigger, even as the size of our homes and offices got smaller. So in came ultra short throw projectors such as MX880UST (UST stands for ultra short throw) from BenQ. This one works on a factor of 0.3, so that a 2 metres image can be had even if the projector is just 48 cm away from the screen. And if you can put 2 metre between the projector and the screen, you get a 7.5 metre (300 inch) wide screen, letting you turn your bedroom wall into a mini theatre. But there are a few things that you still need to know about it.

The 880UST supports a maximum of 1024 x 768 pixels, and it is not HD. But it is still good enough to project your computer’s desktop. It has two 10 watt speakers, not too exciting while watching a movie, but usable.

Like all new projectors from BenQ, the 880UST too is 3D ready. For connectivity, there is USB, and VGA to connect your computer, S-video and a composite video for a DVD player, and an RJ45 Ethernet port to program and control the projector. It measures 404 x 229 x 324 mm and weighs 5.5 kg.

Now for the down side. Though its display is bright, you will still need to dim the lights to see clearly. Also, it accepts only still images over the USB link. For audio-video content, you’ll have to use the video connectors.

projectortheatre