Epson Introduces PowerLite Pilot 2 for Centralized AV Switching and Control of Classroom Multimedia Devices

LONG BEACH, Calif., March 12, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Epson, the number-one selling projector brand worldwide¹, today introduced the PowerLite^® Pilot™ 2 Projector Connection and Control Box, a comprehensive, user-friendly solution that consolidates connections and centralizes control of multimedia sources for educators using Epson's short throw and ultra-short throw classroom projectors. Wall mounted for added convenience and eliminating the need for a handheld remote control, the PowerLite Pilot 2 easily integrates into today's classroom by supporting advanced connectivity, giving teachers more control for connecting and managing a range of devices.

"Classroom technology needs to be as easy-to-use as possible, so teachers can focus on engaging students, and the PowerLite Pilot 2 offers a simplified solution for managing a wide range of multimedia devices with your projector," said Sara Kim, associate product manager, K-12 Education Marketing, Epson America, Inc. "Equipped with advanced connectivity options and designed to match the interfaces of Epson's new ultra-short throw projector models, the PowerLite Pilot 2 is a comprehensive tool that allows educators to easily control their classroom technology." 

Built upon the success of the PowerLite Pilot, the newly redesigned PowerLite Pilot 2 is a wall-mountable box for centralized projector control that integrates seamlessly with Epson short throw and ultra-short throw projectors, including the PowerLite 420/430, new PowerLite 570/580 and BrightLink^® 575Wi/585Wi/595Wi series. It delivers source switching and volume adjustments and also helps consolidate cables for a more organized look and feel, lessening potential hazards. The control box offers two HDMI ports, including one with MHL (Mobile High-Definition Link) support for connecting multiple digital devices including mobile phones, tablets and other portable devices, providing enriched high definition viewing. The PowerLite Pilot 2 can also be used as an extension box, expanding the range of classroom cables that can be connected to it for added flexibility. It also includes a protective cable cover to prevent dust from entering.

Projector communication is facilitated via RS-232, and the various input/output connections available include: two HDMI (including one with MHL support), two VGA (computer 1 and 2) connectors with corresponding Audio (inputs/outputs), Composite Video, S-Video, AUX input (for use with portable audio devices), USB Type A, USB Type B, and Rec Out. The PowerLite Pilot 2 also works with Epson ELPSP02 Active Speakers (optional, sold separately), a set of two wall-mountable speakers delivering 30 watts of powerful sound with a built-in amplifier, for a complete classroom control and extended audio solution.

Pricing and Availability

The PowerLite Pilot 2 will be available in early May through national resellers, pro audio/visual dealers, mail order, distribution, and Epson.com for $249. The optional speakers are available for $149. The PowerLite Pilot 2 and optional speakers will also be available through Epson's Brighter Futures^® program, a unique sales and support initiative available specifically for schools. Brighter Futures is designed to help educators select and implement the best products for their classrooms while making the most of their budgets, and offers special pricing, extended Epson limited warranty, dedicated education account managers, and toll-free technical support for all applicable Epson products. For additional information about the PowerLite Pilot 2 and accessories, visit www.epson.com/education.

About Epson
Epson is a global innovation leader whose product lineup ranges from inkjet printers and printing systems, 3LCD projectors and industrial robots to sensors and other microdevices. Dedicated to exceeding the vision of its customers worldwide, Epson delivers customer value based on compact, energy-saving, and high-precision technologies in markets spanning enterprise and the home to commerce and industry.

Led by the Japan-based Seiko Epson Corporation, the Epson Group comprises more than 73,000 employees in 94 companies around the world, and is proud of its ongoing contributions to the global environment and the communities in which it operates. Epson America, Inc. based in Long Beach, Calif. is Epson's regional headquarters for the U.S., Canada, and Latin America. To learn more about Epson, please visit: www.Epson.com.

You may also connect with Epson America on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/EpsonAmerica), Twitter (http://twitter.com/EpsonAmerica) and YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/EpsonTV).

¹Based upon Q4 2013 worldwide front projection market share estimates from PMA Research.

Note: EPSON and PowerLite are registered trademarks and EPSON Exceed Your Vision is a registered logomark of Seiko Epson Corporation. BrightLink and Brighter Futures are registered trademarks and Pilot is a trademark of Epson America, Inc. All other product brand names are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective companies. Epson disclaims any and all rights in these marks.

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SOURCE Epson America, Inc.