Geared towards the education market, Sony’s newest ultra-short throw projectors, the VPL-SW535C, VPL-525C and VPL-SW525 have interactive writing capabilities which enable simultaneous, dual-touch annotation with their included pen devices and drawing software.

Sony showed their latest classroom projectors at InfoComm. There are six new models in the VPL-E200 Series – the VPL-EW275 (WXGA, 3700 lumens), the VPL-EW245 (WXGA, 3100 lumens), the VPL EW225 (WXGA, 2600 lumens), the VPL-EX275 (XGA, 3700 lumens), the VPL-EX245 (XGA, 3200 lumens), and the VPL-EX225 (XGA, 2700 lumens). They are network-ready, wireless control can be achieved using an optional USB dongle and they have a USB Media Viewer function.

Sony also unveiled three new mainstream projectors for SOHO applications, in the VPL-D100 Series – the VPL-DW120 (WXGA, 2600 lumens), the VPL-DX140 (XGA, 3200 lumens), and the VPL-DX120 (XGA, 2600 lumens).

Enhanced features for both the D100 and E200 series projectors include extended 7,000 hour lamp-life, an Auto Brightness Adjustment function, and enhanced connectivity (2xRGB, HDMI, S-video, RS-232C, RJ-45 and microphone inputs).  All new Sony projectors have six different picture modes and come standard with a security pack with both password and mechanical locks. All will begin shipping in late summer 2012. Pricing has not yet been announced.

Recent survey’s by projector market research firm Pacific Media Associates show that projector users are looking for a lot of functionality in their projectors. Sony’s broad line, offering features like ultra-short throw, interactive, network and PC-free capabilities seem to fit the bill.