The IT Nerd

Viewsonic was the latest company to make an announcement at CES. There’s a lot of stuff here so let me get right to it:

Digital Projectors

The company introduces its LightStream Line of projectors which features SuperColor for higher brightness levels and a more true-to-life color experience in a sleek and smart new form factor. The LightStream PJD5 Value Series of projectors is the first series announced from the LightStream Line. The LightStream PJD5 Value Series delivers 3200 lumens of brightness and smart integrated functions, making them ideal for settings that need higher levels of brightness like classrooms, boardrooms, or at home. All will be available in Q1 2015 with MSRPs ranging from (USD) $399.00 to $699.00.

Bringing professional grade technology to the home, ViewSonic will also showcase the new high-performing PJD7822HDL home entertainment projector. It boasts 3200 ANSI lumens of brightness for a crisp 1080p visual experience, convenient connectivity options, and features a smooth white finish that blends into any home décor. For professionals on-the-go, the award-winning lightweight and bright PLED-W600 and PLED-W800 are solid state LED-based DLP® projectors.

Desktop Monitors

ViewSonic introduces three new Ultra HD 4K monitors, a new touch display, and two VDI compatible displays. The flagship VP2780-4K 27-inch Ultra HD 4K professional monitor features a premium IPS panel, 3820 x 2160 resolution at 60Hz, and HDMI2.0 Display Port for advance computing applications. The VG2860Smhl-4K 28-inch 4K monitor offers superior multitasking functionality with Ultra HD 3840 x 2160 and future-proof connectivity including DisplayPort, Mini DisplayPort, HDMI, MHL and DVI inputs, and 4 USB ports for commercial-grade computing. Both the VP2780-4K and VG2860Smh-4K feature MultiPicture mode which supports up to 4 different screen inputs for increased productivity. For a price competitive 4K monitor, the VX2475Smhl-4K is ViewSonic’s entry-level 24-inch Ultra HD display featuring 3820 x 2160 resolution at 60Hz with HDMI2.0 Display Port that is positioned to be one of the best valued 4K monitors in the market with an ESP of $449.99 (USD).

ViewSonic’s desktop displays are compatible in a variety of settings, including virtual desktop infrastructure environments. During CES, ViewSonic will demonstrate the VDI compatibility of its two new monitors for corporate and enterprise settings. The VG2439Smh 24-inch monitor delivers industry-leading ergonomic swivel, pivot, and height-adjustable options. The VG2847Smh features a unique client-mountable design and delivers superior screen performance with SuperClear MVA panel technology while HDMI and DisplayPort connectivity ensures flexible connectivity with a number of multimedia and computing devices.

A new addition to ViewSonic’s growing touch display line, the 24-inch interactive touch display TD2430Sml is enhanced with SuperClear visual technology. The 10-point projected capacitive touch display provides flexible connectivity and ergonomic book stand support for comfort and productivity.

Technology Demonstration

Showcasing the newest technology in gaming and entertainment, ViewSonic will demonstrate at CES three new displays that provide an immersive multimedia experience. The VX3473Smhl 34-inch ultra-wide LED curved monitor makes a technology statement featuring future-proof connectivity options. With ultra-wide 3440 x 1440 resolution, this distinctive multimedia monitor provides for a captivating gaming experience. ViewSonic will also debut its first 5K monitor, the VP2785-5K. The 27-inch 5K monitor delivers stunning 5120 x 2880 5K resolution and 99% of Adobe RGB color space for exceptional clarity for graphic and design applications where detail is critical. For smooth glitch-free gaming experience, the VX2701 27-inch Full HD 1080p monitor is FreeSync supported and features a 144Hz refresh rate and ultra-fast 1ms response. 

Privacy Filter Screen Protectors

ViewSonic’s new line of Privacy Filter Screen Protectors for desktop displays was developed with Tech Armor™, a leading provider of accessories and screen protectors for mobile devices. The ViewSonic Privacy Filter Screen Protectors deliver superior front-of-screen performance while preventing anyone outside a 60-degree viewing angle from seeing the content. Available in multiple sizes, the Privacy Filter Screen Protectors are an ideal solution for many applications in healthcare, financial services, business, government, education, as well as anyone concerned about their on-screen privacy.

VDI Client Technology

Expanding on ViewSonic’s comprehensive line of VDI endpoint solutions, the SC-U25 Value Client is an easy plug-and-play LAN client that supports Gigabit Ethernet-based installation for easy deployment and simple management. The SC-U25 is optimized to support a mix of virtualized desktops including Microsoft Windows (XP/7/8), Chrome-browser sessions, pre-configured Linux desktop, as well as kiosk and digital signage stations connected to multiple displays in a local area network. Allowing up to 20 users per PC server, the SC-U25 delivers a cost-effective high performing VDI solution.

The SC-T47 Quad Thin Client provides an economical and feature-rich solution for driving multiple displays in a virtual desktop environment, supporting up to four Full HD 1080p displays. Designed for users seeking the richest zero client experience in VMware virtualized environments, the ViewSonic SC-Z56 is certified for VMware Horizon View and supports advanced 2D/3D applications with up to four simultaneous Full HD or dual QHD displays.

An integrated and easy-to-manage VDI solution, the VSD231 LED Smart Display is a 23-inch IPS, Full HD 1080p, 10-point projected capacitive touchscreen with an Android Jelly Bean 4.3 operating system for a versatile PC-less solution. The new 24-inch SD-Z246 integrated zero client monitor is ideal for a seamless deployment in VMware-based VDI environments, while the SD-T225 is a 22-inch thin client display optimized for Citrix or Microsoft based virtualization  and features multiple connectivity options, including a DVI output for dual monitor usage, and four USB ports for peripherals.

ViewSonic’s VDI solutions are optimized for the  major remote networking protocols, including Microsoft® RDP with Remote FX™, Citrix® ICA/HDX, PCoIP® for VMware, VMware Horizon DaaS, Amazon WorkSpaces and remote workstation environments.

Large Format Displays/Digital Signage

Reaching customers is vital in today’s crowded market and having the perfect interactive display solution is essential to delivering effective communication. ViewSonic’s commercial-grade CDE8451-TL is an 84-inch, Ultra HD 4K interactive large format display featuring six-point simultaneous touch capability that delivers ultra-high resolution imaging for collaborative and effective messaging.

ViewSonic’s large format displays and digital signage products offer exceptional multimedia messaging performance with flexible and functional designs. The new EP5012-TL 50-inch interactive four-point touch ePoster is an all-in-one free-standing digital kiosk solution that comes with an embedded media player, 8GB internal memory and bundled with content management software for playlist building, scheduling and exporting over your digital signage network. The EP5012-TL also features an embedded Linux operating system for customization of vertical market applications.

Call this an epic win.

Viewsonic announced the company was selected as this year’s sole PCMag Readers’ Choice Award winner for monitors which is a very impressive achievement. PCMag’s annual survey asked its readers to only rate products and services they use in overall product satisfaction, picture quality, ease of use, likelihood to recommend, and reliability within the past 12 months. Email survey invitations were sent to PCMag community members, specifically subscribers to the Readers’ Choice Survey. The Readers’ Choice Awards and Honorable Mentions are then based on the subjective determination by PCMag editors, taking into account all of the ratings for each manufacturer.

You can see all of the survey results for computer monitors hereL http://www.pcmag.com/image_popup/0,1871,iid=438689,00.asp. 

Viewsonic has announced a number of items this week. Without further delay, here’s what’s new from them:

ViewSonic Announces the PJD7822HDL Dual HDMI 1080p Home Entertainment Projector

• Full 1080p HD experience on a super large screen, up to 300 inches
• 3200 lumens of brightness
• White finish and sleek design blends seamlessly into your home
• Dual HDMI – supports wireless dongles like Google’s Chromecast
• Convenient “MyButton” feature allows users to create customized shortcuts on the remote for easier access to closed captioning, lamp mode 3D sync and more
• 3D Blu-ray support, integrated 2W speaker and SuperColor technology for a wider colour range and true-to-life image projection)
• Affordable – available this month for an MSRP of $1,199.99 (USD)

CRN Names ViewSonic’s TD3240 Full HD 1080p Projected Capacitive Touch Monitor a 2014 Product of the Year

• Recognized companies represent best-in-breed technological innovation backed by a supportive channel partner program
• TD3240 takes home 2014 Product of the Year honours in the Displays category
• 32-inch screen
• 10-point multi-touch display
• 1080p Full HD resolution
• Built-in 10W speakers
• 7H scratch resistant surface for accuracy and durability in high-usage environments like retail centres, transportation hubs and classrooms

ViewSonic’s New Flagship SD-A235 Smart Display with Citrix® XenMobile® Integration Now Available

• Powerful new smart display to enhance virtual desktop environments
• Preinstalled with the Citrix Worx Home app for easy enrollment and management under the Citrix XenMobile environment
• nVIDIA Tegra 4 Processor
• Professional grade 23-inch LED IPS panel
• 10-point multi-touch screen
• Full 1080p HD resolution
• Adjustable height and tilt features, plus VESA mount capabilities
• Available via select resellers for an MSRP of $699.99 USD
• Also available: the VSD-231 – the same great features, without the XenMobile integration – for an MSRP of $659.99 USD

ViewSonic Introduces Privacy Filter Screen Protectors for Monitors

• Developed in partnership with Tech Armor™, a leading provider of accessories and screen protectors for mobile devices
• Superior front-of-screen performance while preventing anyone outside a 60-degree viewing angle from seeing the content
• Ideal for use in healthcare, financial services, business and government, education, and as well as anyone concerned about their on-screen privacy
• Anti-Scratch layer to provide long-lasting protection
• Available in three popular sizes including 21.5-inch (VSPF2150), 23.6-inch (VSPF2360), and 27-inch (VSPF2700) models
• Available in January 2015, at respective MSRPs of $99.00, $115.00, and $185.00 (USD)

ViewSonic Introduces New Multi-Touch, Large Format, LED Commercial Grade Displays and ePoster Digital Kiosks

• Two new LED-based, Full HD large format commercial displays with six-point multi-touch (CDP5560-TL with 55” display, and CDP4260-TL with 42” display)
• Open Pluggable Specification (OPS) for effortless installation, flexibility, and manageability
• Full HD 1080p resolution and 450 nits of brightness for sharp, vivid images
• Support for up to 5×5 daisy-chain installation
• Fully integrated large screen touch solution
• Specifically designed for 24/7 commercial use
• Ideal for interactive advertising, wayfinding, surveillance, education, transportation, and hospitality
• Available in December for an MSRP of $3,199 USD (CDP5560-TL) and $2,599 USD (CDP4260-TL)

Two new all-in-one free-standing ePoster digital kiosks (EP5012-L with 50” display, and EP5012-TL with 50” four-point touch display)

• Full HD 1080p resolution
• Embedded media player and 8GB of internal memory
• Bundled with management software for content editing, loading and monitoring, as well as an integrated scheduling function for easy management
• Available in December for an MSRP of $3,299 USD (EP5012-L) and $3,999 USD (EP5012-TL)

Viewsonic yesterday announced that its SD-A235 Citrix XenMobile Smart Display is now available to enhance virtual desktop environments. With its powerful NVIDIA Tegra 4 processor, professional grade 23-inch LED IPS panel and 10-point touch screen features, the ViewSonic SD-A235 Smart Display is the complete reliable package for educational settings, health care facilities, and businesses looking for alternative desktop solutions.

ViewSonic’s flagship display features:

• Full HD 1080p resolution and 10-point capacitive touch for superior intuitive user interaction
• Preinstalled with the Citrix Worx Home app for easy enrollment and management under the Citrix XenMobile environment
• HDMI (input/output) and USB connectivity, SD reader, RJ-45, WiFi, Bluetooth, and integrated 2MP webcam and speakers for complete multimedia capabilities
• The ergonomic screen offers adjustable height and tilt features and the VESA mount capabilities offer more flexibility on carts and kiosks to support a wide-range of vertical application

ViewSonic’s new VSD231 LED Smart Display is also shipping now. The VSD231 features the same 23-inch IPS, LED smart display with Full HD 1080p resolution, and 10-point projected capacitive touch screen technology as the SD-A235, without the XenMobile integration. With an Android Jelly Bean 4.3 operating system and Google GMS certification, the VSD231 allows users to experience thousands of multimedia-based applications for Android, from social networking to cloud services.

The SD-A235 is now available at an MSRP of $699.00(USD) and the VSD231 is now available at an MSRP of $659.00(USD).

View sonic today introduced the SC-U25 Value VDI Client with Userful Multiplatform™ Software for easy and cost-effective Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) deployment. Working with Calgary-based Userful Corporation to integrate its Userful Multiplatform virtualization software, ViewSonic’s SC-U25 is an easy plug-and-play LAN client that supports Gigabit Ethernet-based installation for easy deployment and simple management. The SC-U25 is ideal for education settings including libraries, labs and classrooms; SMBs including service businesses, call centers and medical or dental offices; as well as hotel business centers that need low-cost and flexible options for a virtual desktop or cloud computing-based environment.

The SC-U25 is optimized to support a mix of virtualized desktops like Microsoft Windows^® (XP/7/8), Chrome-style sessions or the included pre-configured Linux, digital signage and cloud desktops connected to multiple displays in a local area network. The SC-U25 delivers high performance, allowing up to 20 users per PC server. This translates to better security with lower maintenance and service costs.

Userful Multiplatform provides many high-end innovative features, such as N+1 redundancy, allowing IT administrators to assign all deployed SC-U25 clients to corresponding host servers and redundant failover severs. If the main host server is ever down, continued operation is ensured for all end-client users, providing for a reliable virtual desktop environment. An RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet port delivers an impressive rich interactive user experience of multimedia content, and four USB ports deliver flexible connectivity options for multiple peripherals and displays, providing optimal productivity. Headphone and mic ports enhance the multimedia functionality of the SC-U25.

The ViewSonic SC-U25 Value VDI Client will be available in December at an MSRP of $199.00 (USD). For more information about the SC-U25 and other ViewSonic VDI products, visit http://www.viewsonic.com/us/desktop-virtualization.html.

View sonic today announced their latest solid state LED-based, DLP projectors, the PLED-W600 and PLED-W800, are now shipping. These projectors are lightweight, bright, and come with an integrated MHL-enabled HDMI input allowing users to project directly from compatible mobile devices, as well as from wireless HDMI dongles such as Google’s Chromecast device. The palm-sized projectors deliver the best performance and value for business travelers, educators, and home entertainment where portability and performance are both required.

With both projectors weighing just less than two pounds; the PLED-W600 has a brightness of up to 600 ANSI lumens while the PLED-W800 has a brightness of up to 800 ANSI lumens providing superior brightness in an ultra-light form. The two projectors utilize the latest in solid state LED technology for more than 30,000 hours of operation time for a reliable visual experience. The projectors also feature WXGA resolution compatible with HD 1080p/i & 720p content, contrast levels of 120,000:1, and SuperColor technology for true-to-life images. Both projectors have 2X digital zoom and automatically adjust video source content to match 4:3, 16:9 or 16:10 viewing ratios for the perfect picture. The projectors feature the ViewSonic SonicMode sound system that provides three unique sound quality modes including Speech Mode for presentations, Entertainment Mode for gaming and videos, and Standard Mode for general all-purpose use. The PLED-600 integrates a single 2W speaker, while the PLED-W800 integrates two 2W speakers. For additional connectivity, the PLED-W800 also features an SD card slot, USB reader port, and optional Wi-Fi and Miracast compatibility for content streaming and wireless presentation options.

The PLED-W600 and PLED-W800 projectors will be available in November. The PLED-W600 will be available at an MSRP of $778.00 (USD) and the PLED-W800 will be available at an MSRP of $920.00 (USD). More info is available here.

Viewsonic announced that it has entered a strategic global partnership with Userful Corporation, a pioneering desktop virtualization software company dedicated to reducing cost and complexity in deploying virtual desktops. The partnership between ViewSonic and Userful creates an innovative, affordable virtual desktop solution for use around the world. This partnership will enable education customers as well as small and medium-sized businesses, to easily transition to the cloud and virtual environments. The two companies will partner to offer simple and flexible all-in-one, low-cost VDI solutions, including client devices and multi-platform software that will support a mix of native Linux, Chrome Cloud and Microsoft Windows virtual desktops.

With one of the most diverse lines of VDI products in the market, ViewSonic markets itself as the VDI endpoint authority with integrated Thin Client and Zero Client Displays, as well as discrete Thin and Zero Clients. This should prove to be interesting to watch.

Viewsonic introduced today the VG2438Sm 16:10 desktop monitor to its line of award-winning displays. The combination of premium SuperClear panel technology that provides wide viewing angles, as well as a 16:10 aspect ratio, ensures that the VG2438Sm 24-inch display offers an excellent screen experience for demanding computing usage from commercial to enterprise environments and more.

With 1920×1200 resolution, the ViewSonic VG2438Sm delivers additional vertical space and boosted pixels provides better resolution over standard Full HD monitors, making it ideal for productivity-based tasks from editing and designing to engineering applications. It also features a DisplayPort connection and built in USB hub for more adaptable and flexible connectivity. The VG2438Sm is integrated with ViewSonic’s distinctive ViewMode™ settings for enhanced on-screen content. The five different intuitive pre-sets, “Game,” “Movie,” “Web,” “Text” and “Mono” modes, allows the VG2438Sm to offer best-in-class calibration that enhances gamma curve and color temperature, in addition to an optimized combination of contrast and brightness. ViewMode provides accurate color rendering and excellent performance for different screen applications.

The fully ergonomic stand design creates a more comfortable working environment, allowing the VG2438Sm full adjustability of the display, including height adjustment, tilt, swivel and pivot which maximizes productivity and enhances a user’s comfort.

The VG2438Sm will be available for an MSRP of $429(USD) and starts shipping in October 2014. For more information about ViewSonic monitors, visit http://www.viewsonic.com/us/monitors.html.