Labs

HP's entry to this Labs test, the vp6110, is an industrial-looking digital light-processing (DLP) projector that looks sturdy and professional. A VGA input and output sits alongside composite, S-Video and RGB video inputs, but the power socket is at the opposite side of the unit, which means the cables have to trail around the back.

A chunky cogwheel makes it easy to focus accurately. However, zooming in and out is controlled via a tiny slider that's rather fiddly. The top of the vp6110 also sports a handy auto-sync button with a quick calibration option, as well as five buttons that control the various menu functions.

The remote control handles well and offers an excellent range of options. Most of the lesser-used buttons are hidden away under a robust flip-down lid, which

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keeps button fuss to a minimum. The addition of a laser pointer is a nice touch, and the way it's positioned makes you feel more like you're using a rather futuristic ray gun.

Of all the projectors on test, the vp6110 seemed to produce the most heat from its rear grille - so much so that it was very uncomfortable to sit near. If you sit within three to four feet from the rear of the unit, you can feel the blast of hot air constantly, so don't consider this device if you're going to be using it in a small room.

The result of our movie test was watchable - the video was smooth and well defined. However, you certainly couldn't describe it as high quality, as bright colours appeared oversaturated and they lacked detail. And although the built-in speaker was better than some, you wouldn't want to use it in anything other than an emergency. This device did a fair job of displaying our presentation slides, but couldn't produce the clear, sharp results of some of the other projectors here. Its colours and greyscale images were acceptable but not outstanding.

Overall, the vp6110 is disappointing and has nothing to make it stand out. Its video playback is good but no more impressive than the others, and we can't ignore the uncomfortable levels of heat it produces. The HP Digital Projector vp6110's design may look professional, but it's decidedly ordinary.