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Here is our quick guide of features to consider when purchasing your new projector. For in-depth information click on our knowledge bank.
Resolution is the term used to describe the number of pixels that make up the image.
Projectors generally conform to standard computer display resolutions – SVGA, XGA etc.
For example, an SVGA image has 800 pixels horizontally and 600 pixels vertically, a total of 480,000 pixels.
The most common standards are-
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SVGA – 800 x 600 pixels Found in entry level projectors and good for displaying PowerPoint
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XGA – 1024 x 768 pixels The most popular buy currently. Good for all types of presentations and a ‘must have’ for displaying detailed images such as spreadsheets.
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SXGA – 1280 x 1024 pixels This is the best choice for displaying CAD or Medical images, and High Definition Video. Matched to an SXGA computer the results will be excellent.
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WXGA – 1366 x 768 pixels A good option for displaying wide screen video and computers.
The quick answer to getting the best image is to match your projector resolution to your computer resolution.
Projector Brightness is measured in ANSI Lumens.
Portable Projectors
Portable Projectors range from around 1000 to 2500 lumens in brightness.
You need to consider ambient light and the size of your typical audience when selecting projector brightness. Larger audiences require larger screens, which means higher brightness.
Many projectors also have an ‘Economy’ or ‘Eco’ mode, which reduces the advertised brightness and often also extends the lamp life. A typical 2000 ANSI lumen projector may run at 1500 ANSI lumens in Eco Mode.
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1000 – 1200 lumens for lights off and low ambient light
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1500 – 2000 lumens for rooms with some ambient light
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2000 – 2500 lumens for brighter ambient light
Installation Projectors
The brightest projectors tend to be less portable, but can offer much higher brightness. Installation projectors are perfect for large screens, conference rooms, school halls, lecture theatres etc.
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2500 lumensfor audiences up to 100 people with some ambient light
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3000 lumens for audiences of 100-200 people with ambient light
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5000 lumens for very large screens or long throws. Ideal for audiences of 100 people or more with high ambient light.
Many projectors have added features that are worth considering.
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Projection Lens. Most portable projectors have a standard zoom lens. The lens is quoted with a throw ratio – eg 1:1.5 – 2.0. To calculate the Throw distance you just need to multiply the screen width x throw ratio.
Example: 2m Screen & Lens 1:1.5 – 2.0
Closest position to screen would be 2m (screen width) x 1.5 (lens) =3m
Furthest position from screen would be 2m (screen width) x 2.0 (lens) =4m
Many Installation Projectors have different lens options available from wide angle (ratio around 1:0.9 – 1.2) to extra long throw (ratio’s of 1:6.0 – 8.0)
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Wireless Projectors. Ideal for portable use and easy to set up as you only need a power cable. Look for this feature if you want to make the most of your wireless laptop, as the data signal is sent wirelessly from your PC to the projector. Most manufacturers use the standard 802.11b/g standard, but remember the data rates achieved are not ideal for displaying moving video.
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Digital Keystone Correction is a feature on many projectors and very useful when you need versatility in projector placement.
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Wireless Mouse Control is a feature found on many projectors and gives you ultimate flexibility to move around while presenting
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Networkability. A useful feature found on installation and many portable projectors is the ability to connect them to an IP network. This allows you to monitor lamp life, power projectors on or off etc from a central point via a web browser.
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Automatic Cool on Power Off. The one thing you can do to protect your lamp life is to allow the projector to cool down the lamp when you turn the power off. Many Portable projectors now have a built in system which keeps the cooling fan running even if you pull the power cable out, thus protecting the life of your lamp.