Infocus Work Big IN26+

The InFocus Work Big IN26+ is a DLP projector with a 1024x768 native resolution that's designed primarily for business use. The IN26+ is almost identical to the IN26. The only difference between the two models is the brightness rating and, of course, the price tag.

When we reviewed the IN26, we didn't have any issues with the brightness level. The IN26 can produce a maximum of 1700 ANSI lumens while the IN26+ can produce a slightly higher 2400 ANSI lumens. Both projectors are more than adequate for use in a boardroom. However, for rooms with a higher level of ambient light, the IN26+ is the better option. Since the IN26+ is a couple of hundred dollars more expensive than its sibling, some more improvements would have been nice.

We tested the performance of the IN26+ to check if it was on par with its predecessor. It seems that it's essentially the same as the IN26, as the results that were returned were identical. In the default 'presentation' mode, the colours were horribly oversaturated and the white levels were far too bright. This was the same in the IN26 and the method we discovered for correcting this proved useful once again. We fixed the discolouration by using the preset 'movie' colour scheme, and increasing the brightness and contrast. While this isn't a massive problem, it still should be considered for those that are expecting perfect plug-and-play performance without having to spend time on calibration.

We ran extensive tests on the unit using DisplayMate Video Edition at the native resolution of 1024x768 and found very few problems. It passed all the geometry and distortion tests and displayed the colour and greyscale tests without any faults. Using the fine calibration option, we had to adjust the horizontal and vertical alignment slightly in order to get the screen perfectly centred. We performed our tests without any keystone correction, in order to test the true processed signal of the projector, despite a slightly trapezoidal distortion on the image. Without keystone correction, the image quality was excellent. However, once we turned on the keystone correction option, the resolution tests showed vertical and horizontal distortion. This was to be expected and is common of all projectors. For the most part, it shouldn't affect boardroom presentations.

To test the video playback capabilities of the unit, we connected it to a DVD player. We observed excellent colour reproduction, no noticeable noise and no motion blur. If you need to view a DVD or play back a video from a PC, this projector can handle the task without any problems.

The IN26+ uses a four segment, two-speed colour wheel to reduce the level of rainbow effect, which is usually a problem in DLP projectors. Rainbow effect was noticed during our tests, but it was less noticeable on this unit than on most other DLP business projectors we have reviewed. This is a big plus for the IN26+, as it can be rather unpleasant to watch a presentation on a projector that suffers badly from rainbow effect.

We found the throw distance to be quite good for a business unit. From a minimum distance of 1.49m the image size is 85cm (measured diagonally) and from a maximum distance of 10m, it can reach up to 6.31m. If you don't have a lot of space in the boardroom, this can represent a problem as the minimum throw distance may not work for you, but from the back of the room in a moderately sized boardroom, the image size will be more than adequate.

From a design standpoint, the IN26+ is identical to the IN26; it looks sophisticated and professional and is a good fit for an office environment. The inputs are located on the rear panel and include D-Sub, USB 2.0, S-Video, Composite Video, RCA audio, and monitor and audio out. On top of the unit are the on/off buttons and the function interface. The lens also has separate focus and zoom rings, which work well. The speakers in the unit tend to sound a little muddy, but for an office presentation they should be adequate.

For the extra cost, the small increase in brightness is not enough reason to purchase the IN26+ over the regular IN26. In the end, the IN26+ is a still a good all-round projector that will handle a wide range of inputs and offer excellent performance. The decision of which model to buy comes down the environment in which you intend to use it. Unless you really feel that you need the extra brightness, you should save your cash and give the IN26 a look instead.