Epson Powerlite 97H Projector Review - Special Features

Network Based Functions/Software

The Powerlite comes with a CD with software plus additional software is available from Epson's web site for several network enabled functions including:

• EasyMP Network Projection software sets up your computer for network projection
• EasyMP Monitor software (Windows only) lets you monitor and control your projector through the network
• EasyMP Multi PC Projection software allows you to hold interactive meetings by projecting the computer screens of users over a network
• EasyMP Network Updater software (Windows only) allows you to update firmware for a projector over a wired LAN. 

The Powerlite 97H is also compatible with Crestron RoomView(TM) network monitoring and control systems.

Moderator Function

The PowerLite 97H supports a “Moderator Function” that Epson describes as:

“Multi-PC projection and Moderator function allows up to 50 devices to connect over a network and then select up to 4 to project simultaneously.”

As illustrated below, this allows the teacher/moderator to select the content to be displayed from up to 4 devices (i.e., PCs, MACs or mobile devices), from a maximum of 50 connected devices.

Presentations without a Computer

A flash drive can be plugged into the projector’s USB connector to display photos and videos (using specific file formats) without having an attached computer.  The projector’s remote includes the buttons needed to navigate through the photo slide show or video.  This can be useful when the projector is being used as a portable unit for doing a quick setup for hassle-free presentations.

MHL Support

MHL is essentially mobile HDMI.  The Powerlite 97H supports MHL devices on its HDMI #2 port.   MHL is relatively recent, so it may see a lot more capabilities down the road.  To be effective, since MHL supports video, audio, and command and control, a projector really should have its own sound system, which the 97H does (with a mono speaker).

Some phones and tablets, as well as all kinds of other smart devices are being designed with MHL.

Support for Android and IOS devices

Projection of content from iOS or Android devices is supported when the the optional wireless network module is installed on the projector and when the mobile device has installed the free Epson iProjection app.

Instant Off and Direct Power On