BenQ’s new entry-level M6 Series MS616ST, MX618ST, MX662 and MW663 models are spec’d at contrast ratios of 13,000:1 and up to 3,500 ANSI lumens of brightness. They also include BenQ’s SmartEco technology to cut energy consumption by up to 70 percent. Designed for corporate, classroom and personal spaces, the MS616ST (SVGA) and MX618ST (XGA) are short-throw projectors offering wireless connectivity for “Bring Your Own Device” (BYOD) scenarios. The higher brightness versions are the MX662 (XGA projector spec’d at 3,500 ANSI lumens) and the MW663 (a WXGA wide-screen projector spec’d at 3,000 ANSI lumens).

One interesting feature is that the BenQ M6 Series features wireless display options for cable-free connection to content sources. When paired with BenQ’s Qpresenter app for the iPhone and iPad, users can transfer files from their handheld iOS devices directly to the projection screen. What makes them green is that BenQ’s SmartEco technology allows users the same brightness, features and performance at a lower total cost of ownership (TCO). For instance, in “Smart Eco” mode, projectors automatically adjust lamp power by up to 70 percent in order to use just the right amount of brightness needed. The result is an 6,500 hours of lamp life without any compromise to picture quality, according to BenQ. To further reduce power consumption, an “Eco Blank” mode allows teachers or presenters to blank out the screen whenever projection isn’t needed while a “No Source Detected” mode automatically lowers brightness to 30 percent when no display has been detected for more than three minutes. An audio pass through function also preserves lamp life by enabling only sound when projectors are on standby.

Available now, the BenQ MS616ST, MX618ST, MX662 and MW663 retail at $699, $899, $799, and $799 respectively. Here they are: http://www.benq.us/products/product_line.cfm?plid=8