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Generally, but not always, I tend to use the term “multifunction” in regards to devices that provide print, copy and scan functionality.  However this is not one of those occasions.  The subject of this review, while offering various features, can not print, copy or scan.  Instead this is a timepiece with alarm and indoor / outdoor temperature readings plus the ability to project the current time on to an appropriate surface such as a ceiling or wall.  The product in question is the PRYSMA R Projection Clock from Oregon Scientific.

Like other similar products in the Oregon Scientific portfolio of weather station devices, this kit consists of the main PRYSMA R unit and a separate temperature sensor with both elements requiring their own source of power.  The PRYSMA R unit needs to be connected to a mains power source using the supplied lead.  Rather surprisingly this lead links to the PRYSMA R device via a micro USB port rather than the more standard power socket.

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The main PRTSMA R unit is a rectangular shaped box that combines the clock section decked out in black with a rubberised and rotatable side panel that is a bright orange in colour.  The clock unit displays the time and temperature readings for indoors and outdoors plus icons for various active features such as alarms and wireless signal strength.  You can rotate the side panel, which delivers the projection feature, by 90 degrees in either direction so that it can project the current time onto a ceding or wall depending upon which direction it is facing.  However when the projector is facing forwards, you will need to activate a flip feature to avoid the time being displayed backwards.  I feel that the projection feature of this device is more a gimmick that a really useful aspect of the product.

With dimension of 125 x 50 x 19.5mm, the Apple White temperature sensor is powered by a pair of AAA batteries.  This unit should ideally be placed on an outside wall in order to deliver a correct temperature reading.  It should also be positioned within 98 feet of the main unit.  When inserting the batteries into the temperature sensor you should notice a series of mini switches for switching between the five available channels for avoiding possible conflicts, selecting the Europe or UK / USA region, searching for an RCC signal and a reset option.

The main unit has its own array of control options located on the rear of the box.  There are elongated buttons designated for temperature, clock, alarm, + and -.  You can set two different alarms, adjust the time and switch between the available channels to receive the outside temperature data reading.  There is also a second  row of buttons, much smaller this time, that allow you to adjust the backlight intensity between High and Lo, select either a C or F temperature reading, flip the time image being projected and reset the device. 

The clock element also has a snooze bar which runs across the top of the PRYSMA R box.  This particular feature can be used in different ways.  Initially it can interrupt the alarm and give you another 8 minutes of rest before the alarm restarts itself.  This process can be repeated three times.  Incidentally, left to its own devices, the alarm will switch off after two minutes.  The snooze bar can also be used to temporary switch the backlight into High intensity and project the time for five seconds.  I was a little surprise to discover than the display did not automatically adjust its intensity level to compensate for different lightning conditions.

My initial attempts at setting up this product were not all that successful.  I really struggled to get a connection between the temperature sensor and the PRYSMA R box.  Eventually I opted for the manual set up approach and made more progress.  Even then I needed to switch between the available channels in order to receive the outdoor temperature signal.

Once set up, this product delivers clear information regarding time and temperature readings.  Maybe the projection feature could act as a talking point but I can not see it being used much.  I have seen this product advertised at £49.99 on Amazon.co.uk.

http://store.oregonscientific.com/uk/prysma-projection-clock-with-indoor-outdoor-temperature.html