Types of Video Projectors

Lamps, LEDs, and Lasers

Best Uses for a Video Projector

Projectors are fragile, expensive pieces of equipment that can perform for years if treated properly. Performing routine maintenance to the various parts of your projector (i.e. the filters, lamp, etc) will help to ensure that you are creating the best environment for your projector to operate. There are certain precautions you can take when using your projector on a regular basis that will improve your the lifespan and protect your investment.

Setting up a video projector is definitely different than setting up a TV, but in most cases, is it still pretty straightforward, if you know the steps. Here are some tips to keep in mind that you can use to get your video projector up and running.

The first thing you need to do, even before you consider a video projector purchase, is to determine if you are going to project onto a screen or a wall. If projecting on a screen, you should purchase your screen when you purchase your video projector.

Once you have purchased your video projector and screen, and get your screen placed and set up, then you can proceed through the following steps to get your video projector up and running.

Projector Placement

After unboxing a projector, determine how and where you will place it in relation to the screen.

Most video projectors can project towards a screen from the front or rear, as well as from a table-type platform, or from the ceiling. Note: For placement behind the screen, you need a rear projection-compatible screen.

To project from the ceiling (either from the front or rear) the projector needs to placed upside down and attached to a ceiling mount. This means that the image, if not corrected, will also be upside down. However, ceiling mount compatible projectors include a feature that allows you to invert the image so that the image is projected with the right side up.

If the projector is going to be mounted behind the screen, and project from the rear, that also means that the image will be horizontally reversed.

However, if the projector is rear placement compatible, it will provide a feature that allows you to perform a 180-degree horizontal switch so that the image has the correct left and right orientation from the viewing area.

Also, for ceiling installations – before cutting into your ceiling and screwing a ceiling mount into position, you need to determine the required projector-to-screen distance.

Connect Your Sources and Power Up

Connect one, or more source devices, such as DVD/Blu-ray Disc player, Game Console, Media Streamer, Cable/Satellite Box, PC, Home Theater video output, etc… to your projector.

However, keep in mind that although all projectors intended for home theater use these days have at least one HDMI input, and most also have composite, component video, and PC monitor inputs, make sure before purchasing your projector, that it has the input options you need for your specific setup.

Once everything is connected, turn on the projector. Here is what to expect:

• Once on, the first image you will see will be the video projector brand logo, followed by a message that the projector is searching an active input source.
• Next, turn on one of your connected sources. If the projector cannot find your active source, you can also select in manually using the remote or onboard source selection button.
• Once the projector finds your active source, you know that it is working. Now, go into your projector’s menu and select your projector’s placement (front, front ceiling, rear, rear ceiling), so that the image orientation is correct (right side up, and text or labels reading from left to right).
• Next, adjust the projected image (which will most likely be the onscreen menu of your source device). However, once the projector is powered up, another tool that you may be able to take advantage of any built-in test patterns that may be available via the projector’s onscreen menu. Most often, the available test patterns will a red, green, or blue screen or a grid (such as small white squares with black borders, or black squares with white borders).

by Robert Silva

See Full Story at www.lifewire.com

The video projector has long been used as a presentation tool in business and commercial entertainment, as well as in some very high-end home theater systems. However, video projectors are becoming more available and affordable for the average consumer. Check out some useful tips before you buy your first video projector.

Types of Video Projectors

There are two major types of Video Projectors available: DLP (Digital Light Processing) and LCD (Liquid Crystal Display).

In addition, other variants of LCD video projection technology in use are LCOS (Liquid Crystal on Silicon), D-ILA (Digital Imaging Light Amplification – developed and used by JVC) and SXRD (Silicon Crystal Reflective Display – developed and used by Sony). For more details, including the pros and cons of each type, check out my reference articles below.

Lamps, LEDs, and Lasers

In addition to the core LCD or DLP technology that may be used in a video projector, another thing to take into consideration is whether the light source used in the projector is a Lamp, LED, or Laser. All three options have their advantages and disadvantages.

Best Uses for a Video Projector

Home theater projectors are best for viewing Sports, DVDs, or Blu-ray Disc movies. If you watch mostly regular TV, an LCD/DLP projector may be an expensive option for most lamp-based video projectors as the bulb (light source) would need to be changed after about 3,000 to 4,000 hours of viewing, with some projectors now having upwards of 5,000 hours or more of bulb life.

Compare that with an LCD or OLED TV which can last 60,000 hours or more, albeit with a smaller screen size. Also, make sure you have the proper room size for your projector.

Another great use for a video projector is to watch movies outdoor during the summer.

By Robert Silva

See full story at www.lifewire.com