BENQ PB8220

BenQ produce a number of machines in its growing data projector range that share one thing in common: they are all based around DLP (Digital Light Processing) technology, which is licensed from Texas Instruments. DLP uses a smaller lamp construction than LCD devices and allows, in turn, for smaller projector chassis designs. However, the BenQ PB8220 (£1445 ex. VAT)doesn’t fall in to this smaller category as it has been designed with a wider array of ports than are typically found on DLP machines.

There are also separate ports for a controller and a USB mouse. The only connection missing is a network connection and at this price, we would not expect this to be included. The chassis of the PB8220 measures 307 x 94 x 241mm, which is large for a DLP projector, but at 3.1kg it’s a relatively lightweight device. BenQ supply the unit with a carry case and we found that it was as portable as the other devices in this review. The PB8220 has a 2200 ANSI lumens lamp, which is supported by an equally impressive2000:1 contrast ratio. At this specification, image quality is amazingly sharp and crisp. We found that the projector was ideal for presentations as well as for multimedia use, such as DVD-based presentations.

Designed with office use in mind, thePB8220 contains an excellent array of ports, which consists of two component ports, a full complement of composite ports along with video, S-video and audio sockets. The larger chassis size allows for a larger lens. This in turn means that it has an improved throw range for a DLP machine, which at just short of 10 metres is satisfactory for most small- to medium-sized business premises. The BenQ PB8220 is a high specification DLP machine that’s not intended for the mobile traveller. Rather, it will appeal to those users looking for a unit to share between office departments.

RATING: 7
PRICE: £1445/£1699 (EX/INC. VAT)
BRIGHTNESS: 2200 ANSI LUMENS
CONTRAST: 2000:1
TECHNOLOGY: DLP
NATIVE RESOLUTION: 1024 X 768 PIXELS
THROW RANGE: 1.2 – 9.8M
LENS – FOCUS: MANUAL
LENS – ZOOM: MANUAL
DIMENSIONS (WXHXD): 307 X 94 X 241MM
WEIGHT: 3.1KG
CONTACT: 01442 301000 WWW.BENQ.CO.UK