Choosing the right projector
Choosing a projector involves much more than simply comparing price and brightness. The room, screen size, ambient light, viewing distance, content, installation position and application all influence which projector is appropriate.
In this discussion with David from Vivitek, we explore the key specifications and technologies you should understand before selecting a projector for a boardroom, classroom, auditorium, conference hall, home cinema or other professional application.
Watch: Understanding Projectors
Resolution and aspect ratio
Projector resolution determines how much image detail can be displayed. Depending on the application, this may range from standard business presentation resolutions through Full HD and increasingly 4K projection.
Resolution should also be considered together with the aspect ratio of the content and projection screen. Pairing a widescreen projector with an incorrectly proportioned screen can result in unused screen area or an image that does not fit the intended viewing surface properly.
Brightness and ANSI lumens
Brightness is one of the most important projector specifications, particularly in rooms where ambient light cannot be fully controlled.
However, not every brightness figure should be compared directly. Understanding how projector brightness is measured, including the importance of ANSI lumens, helps when comparing different projectors and determining whether a projector is suitable for a particular room or screen size.
Large conference halls and other bright environments can require considerably higher light output than smaller controlled spaces.
Throw ratio and projector placement
Throw ratio determines the relationship between the projector’s distance from the screen and the width of the projected image.
Depending on the room and application, you may need a standard throw, short throw or ultra-short throw projector. Large venue projectors may also use interchangeable lenses to achieve the required image size and projection distance.
Understanding throw ratio before installation helps avoid one of the most common projector problems: discovering that the selected projector cannot produce the required image size from the available mounting position.
Projector or interactive flat panel?
Education and meeting spaces increasingly have a choice between projection and large interactive flat panel displays.
There is no single answer for every room. Screen size, viewing distance, interactivity, installation requirements, ambient light and budget all need to be considered when deciding which display technology is more appropriate.
Lamp vs laser projectors
Projection technology has changed significantly with the introduction of laser light sources.
Laser projectors can offer long operating life, more consistent performance and reduced maintenance compared with traditional lamp-based projectors. In the discussion, we look at laser projector lifespans of around 20,000 hours, how brightness changes over time, and the differences between laser and LED light sources.
DLP vs 3LCD
We also discuss two important projection technologies: DLP and 3LCD.
Each technology approaches image generation differently and has its own characteristics. The episode also looks specifically at Vivitek’s use of DLP technology and the importance of dust protection in professional projector design.
Installation matters
Even a good projector can produce disappointing results when it is incorrectly specified or installed.
Screen selection, projector position, throw distance, lens choice, keystone correction, ambient light and image geometry all affect the final result. More advanced applications may also involve technologies such as projection mapping.
For larger venues, professional projection design becomes particularly important because projector brightness, lenses, mounting positions and screen dimensions need to work together as a complete system.
Understanding the specification before buying
The best projector is not simply the model with the highest resolution or the largest lumen figure. It is the projector whose specifications match the room, application, screen and content.
At PRO AV Africa, we support system integrators, resellers, consultants and project teams with professional projection solutions, system design, equipment selection and technical project support.