This projector might not be optimum for home applications, but we wanted to write about it anyway because it’s pretty nifty. It’s the PLC-XL50 from Sanyo, and it doesn’t need much room to throw a big image onto a screen.

The company recently demonstrated the LCD projector at a trade show, how it can project an 80-inch image from a distance of only about 3 inches (8 centimeters) away, making it ideal for space-constricted settings. The PLC-XL50 incorporates a large diameter aspheric lens and high-precision aspheric mirror technology to accomplish that, Sanyo says.

Other features include top and bottom keystone correction for proper alignment, a color board mode allowing for hue adjustment on a non-white surface, and a built-in vibration sensor alert that sounds an alarm when the unit is picked up.

It is expected to be available in December with an MSRP under $5,000.

Visit www.sanyoLCD.com for more.

Arlen Schweiger - Editor of Electronic House Magazine

Arlen writes about home technology installations and product news and reviews for electronichouse.com and Electronic House magazine.