Get a 3M pocket projector for $149.99 shipped

Now that second-generation pico (i.e. really tiny) projectors are hitting the streets, you can pick up first-gen models for a song.

Witness the 3M MPro110, on sale at Newegg for $149.99 shipped. It's a refurb, but given that it sold new for $359 just 10 months ago, you gotta take a look-see.

The impossibly small MPro110 weighs 5.6 ounces and measures 0.9 inch high by 2 inches wide by 4.5 inches deep, meaning you can literally stuff it in a pocket.

The projector works with a wide variety of video sources: laptops, digital cameras, camcorders, and iPods (which require a special video-out cable--3M doesn't supply one).

CNET hasn't reviewed the MPro110, but be sure to read the reviews at Gizmodo and PC Magazine. The chief complaint lies with brightness: you need a pretty dark room to enjoy the view, and you can't get an image much larger than 20 inches without taking a brightness hit.

Of course, if you're running a photo slideshow or watching a movie, 20 inches is way better than the source device's little LCD. The MPro110 may not be a suitable replacement for a boardroom projector, but for fun and leisure, it's pretty sweet.

You can learn more, and see the gizmo in action, in the above video (which is a little cheesy but very informative). Still more info is available at 3M's product page.

Newegg doesn't specify the warranty, but assume 90 days (and call or e-mail them if you're concerned about it). I don't really have a need for one of these, but I'm salivating over that price.

[dannosliwcd]

If you are absolutely against refurbs, this is available new at tigerdirect for 200. Refurb deal isn't that bad anyways, since the new product's warranty is only 3 months anyways.

I can't imagine much of a reason to have one of these (it seems like any place you would prefer this over other display methods already has a good setup for a full-sized projector). Although, I'm sure someone has already rigged up a halloween costume that uses this as part of an active camouflage suit.

[dannosliwcd]

Guess you might want a link:
http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=4340434&sku=T350-3000

[Mr_fleabite]

Hey rick do you have any suggestions on where to look for deals on tools?
BTW this thing is cool but the wife said no, I guess we're saving money for the home ren'o.

[j_a_s_p_e_r]

I can recommend Amazon's Denali brand. E.g the 115pc Home Repair starter kit for ~$45. I got the 80 something piece drillbit set and carry bag for $20 last year. Very good. Got dozens of diferrent types of drillbits and the quality is above average.

[jon345111]

Argh, the stupid ad for the powermat blocks the main page's link to the blogs. How can I get to them while this ad is up there besides just googling them (pain in the butt). Thanks

[rickbroida]

You're right! I'll find out what's going on. In the meantime, you can get straight to the Cheapskate at this url: www.news.com/cheapskate. Bookmark it! :)

[PeteyBrian]

Thanks Rick!
Cool product! Especially cool to hook up to ipod/iphone/laptop/camera on the go. It doesn't say it works with an iphone, but I can't see a reason why it wouldn't. Plus, iPhones have external speakers (unlike ipods), albeit small sounding. $150 - an expensive toy, but priceless fun!

[greatpix]

That's a lot of money for a pocket protector don't you think? I mean, does 3M make ones that are all that much better than the ones that cost 25 cents at the office supply store? :o)