Network projectors explained

What is a network projector?

We've done the research in the projector world for you. This article gives you information about networks and file-sharing processes, and also offers a comprehensive insight into where things stand today and what you can expect in the future.

How do network projectors differ from others?

Years ago, you had to connect a peripheral such as a printer directly to the computer. Today, offices can easily access printers, scanners and servers via LAN (local area network), which saves time and cuts costs for the company. Recent advances now make it possible to operate video projectors over an existing network.

Like any other networked device, a network projector has a unique IP address. With this IP address, IT technicians can set up the projector at work and carry out various actions remotely. IP addresses are either assigned by built-in NIC (network interface card) cards or can be set via a PCMCIA card slot or RS-232 port.

Benefits for work, school and organisations

Network projectors pay off for your workplace, school or organisation

With a projector integrated into the system, IT departments can do many things remotely that previously had to be done on site. Time- and money-saving features of newer network projectors include:

Remote diagnostics: technical faults and image settings can now be fixed remotely in real time.
Maintenance alerts: maintenance notifications, such as lamp or filter changes, are sent by email.
Increased security: if a projector is disconnected from the network, an email or pager notification is sent.
Power-saving mode: automatic shutdowns can be scheduled for evenings, weekends and public holidays.
Projector groups: remote access to a single projector or a group of projectors at once.
MMC or SNMP integration: projectors can be integrated into the network easily and smoothly.

Benefits for projector users

Users such as teachers, sales representatives or meeting participants appreciate the convenience of network projectors. New file-sharing and on-board features make your projector an even more productive meeting device.

On-board: Excel worksheets, PowerPoint presentations, JPEG images, etc. can be uploaded, stored and presented.
Network access: browse the internet or access company folders directly on the projector
Instant technical support: the IT department sees problems and can fix them remotely.

What about Wi-Fi projectors?

What about wireless projectors?

Due to the growing popularity of Wi-Fi networks, the major manufacturers have started launching projectors with WLAN capability in line with the IEEE 802.11b standard. With WLAN PC cards in your laptops, you can give presentations wirelessly. No more endless swapping of cables between components. To date, only data can be transmitted wirelessly to projectors, but in future it will be possible to play videos, possibly in wireless HDTV video quality.

Back to technical terms