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Hands On With the Weird But Intriguing HP Sprout

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HP Sprout : Front

A new take on desktop computing, the HP Sprout combines an all-in-one PC with a projector, scanner, and Intel's RealSense technology.

HP Sprout : Illuminator Column

The Illuminator Column contains a projector, scanner, and several cameras to capture images, infrared, depth and more.

HP Sprout : Windows 8

Shown here projected onto the TouchMat, the Sprout runs Windows 8.1, so it will provide all of the same software and app support as a standard Windows PC. Though the projected image looks dark in our hands on photos, this is the result of the projector resolution and our camera shutter being at different speeds. In reality, the projected image was uniformly bright and visible.

HP Sprout : TouchMat

The TouchMat is a combination capacitive touch sensor with 20-point tracking and a projector screen surface, designed to provide good visibility and uniform light diffusion.

HP Sprout : TouchMat Dock

The TouchMat connects to the Sprout with a magnetic dock that aligns itself to take the guesswork out of connecting it.

HP Sprout : Projector

The system's projector is actually placed behind the PC display, with mirrors used to bring the projected image around and down to project onto the TouchMat.

HP Sprout : Cameras and Sensors

In the same overhanging arm of the Illuminator Column you'll find cameras for scanning documents and objects, as well as infrared and depth sensing for other applications.

HP Sprout : Back

In the back is the Illuminator Column, which houses a projector, along with the components for the PC.

HP Sprout : Ports

On the back, the Sprout boasts Ethernet, HDMI output, and two USB 2.0 ports, along with a Kensington lock slot and audio output.

HP Sprout : Stylus

The Sprout also comes with HP's Jot Stylus. The system has a magnet built into the side of the chassis to provide convenient storage for the stylus.