Hitachi CP-D10 Ultra Short Throw LCD Projector Review

Hitachi CP-D10 Projector Highlights

Hitachi CP-D10 Projector Overview

The Hitachi CP-D10 is an ultra short throw XGA (1024×768) LCD projector that is targeted for use in a small conference room or classroom, particularly where interactive use with a whiteboard is desired. The CP-D10 easily fits into the “short throw” category by being able to project an 80” diagonal image from only 3 feet (front of projector to screen). Unlike the previously reviewed Hitachi CP-D10, which used a fixed lens projecting on a convex mirrored surface to reflect and expand the image onto the screen, the CP-D10 uses a fixed normal lens projecting through a second, convex lens.  Like the CP-D10, this use of a fixed lens only allows for digital zooming and requires the user to place the projector at the proper distance for the screen size desired, as well as at the proper height.

The CP-D10 features a specified output of 2000 lumens with a 400:1 contrast ratio. The CP-D10 is quite portable, at only 7.7 pounds, giving it the flexibility to be used in a number of locations as needed.

The CP-D10 includes proprietary Hitachi functions including MyScreen, MyMemory, MyButton, MyText and MySource.  It also includes AMX Device Discovery™ technology (see the Features section of this review for more information).  The CP-D10 projector also features a daytime mode, audio pass-through, Closed Captioning and input source naming.

Short throw projectors like the CP-D10 are primarily used where there is limited space and where a presenter will often be at the screen pointing out items in the presentation. With the projector so close to the screen, the presenter will not interfere with the projected image.  Also, as the CP-D10 can throw an image of 100 inches diagonal from less than four feet, the presenter will not likely be in a position where he or she will have to look away from the lens while looking back toward his audience.

As we’ll see from the test results below, the CP-D10 is a stellar performer.  Hitachi is already the #1 seller in K-12 classrooms and we expect that the CP-D10 will continue that success.

Special features of the Hitachi CP-D10

AMX Device Discovery™ technology

All AMX NetLinx Integrated Central Controllers automatically recognize the CP-D10 and systematically load the appropriate communications module or driver, initializing the CP-D10 for use without any setup by the user.

Personalized Setups

MyScreen – Allows the user to set up a personal Startup or Blank screen with a picture and/or company logo.

MyMemory – Allows the user to save up to 4 memories for adjustment data (for all the items of the PICTURE menu).

MyButton – Two buttons on the remote control that can be programmed for one touch adjustment of picture, input, MyMemory setting, resolution, template display, zoom and other settings

MyText – Allows the user to enter text for display on the Startup Input Information screens

MySource – Allows for easy selection of input source from the remote control

Template Function
Line templates accessible from the projector menu or MyButton can be displayed for organization of writing when used with a whiteboard. There are four types of line templates to choose from, plus two circle and map templates.

Closed Caption Capabilities

Many projectors are not equipped to display closed captions.  This function can be invaluable be invaluable to organizations and schools with hearing-impaired individuals.