| LCD
projectors are changing the way people communicate in many
fields because they can deliver colorful, electronic presentations
to anyone, anywhere in the world. LCD projectors allow you
to display computer and video images, as well as audio information,
which allows greater flexibility in your ability to make an
impact. This guide has been designed to help you choose between
the many models out there today.
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Comparing LCD projector features:
When comparing features, it’s important
to remember what your own individual needs and priorities
are. The more expensive the projector, the more features it
will have, which may not always be desired. Only you can ultimately
decide which projector is best suited for your application.
1. Image Quality
The quality of any image is comprised of 4
elements. Those elements are contrast, color, brightness and
how even the illumination is across the picture.
Contrast
Contrast is simply the difference between
the brightest and the darkest parts of the image. Contrast
helps define the depth of an image, and is important when
projecting video images. A good projector will have a contrast
ratio of 250:1 or more. High contrast is useful when displaying
high quality video, but not as necessary when displaying simple
computer data such as spreadsheets.
Color
The more colors your projector can support,
the better. Color also helps define the depth of an image,
by adding shades to the objects displayed. Typically projectors
display 16 million colors or more, which is adequate for both
video and computer data.
Brightness
The brightness level you need depends on the
kind of environment in which you display your information.
Trade show floors and other lighted environments require brighter
images, while darkened room displays need less brightness.
Typically you will want 1000 lumens or more in a lighted room.
Brightness can be listed in various units.
Usually manufacturer’s list brightness in either lumens
or ANSI lumens. The difference between the two, is that ANSI
lumens are measured by a specific method, set down by the
American National Standards Institute.
If a unit has it’s brightness listed
in just lumens, then the measurements taken to obtain that
value, do not follow any standardized routine. ANSI lumen
listings are closer to the real value of the projector’s
brightness, than non-ANSI lumen listings.
Illumination
As you compare projectors, notice how the illumination fills
the screen. Is it even from side to side and top to bottom?
You want to avoid bright centers and dark corners, or vice-versa.
This criteria should be followed for both video and computer
data projections.
2. Portability
LCD projectors offer a portable presentation
package for highly mobile users. Their small, lightweight
frames make them easy to transport via the usual modes of
transportation (car, airplane, A/V cart, or on foot). You’ll
want to make sure you use an ATA approved shipping case or
a case designed for local transport, depending on your needs.
Some projectors are more portable than others.
If you are on the road quite often, you will generally want
a 5 pound or less projector. If your projector will reside
at one location for a majority of the time, heavier projectors
are not such a hassle. The heavier projectors tend to have
more features than their lighter weight cousins, so you have
to be the judge when compromising weight for function.
In-house usage
The portability of LCD projectors also makes
them an excellent choice for in-house users who need to move
a projector from room to room. Another example of in-house
usage, is in permanent fixtures.
For many permanently mounted projectors, the
requirement for light weight or small size can be traded for
increased light output or other features.
Mounting your projector on the ceiling gives
it a stable, out of the way home. Rear-screen projection capability
allows you to project your image from behind a transparent
screen.
3. Ease of Use
The easier your projector is to use, the less
time you will have to spend setting it up. Comparing the ease-of-use
of one projector versus another doesn’t have to be difficult.
Just remember to look at the following items:
Remote control
A remote control offers the user the most
mobility while making a presentation. It allows the user to
make adjustments to the image and control projector functions
from anywhere in the room. Look for a simple, yet intuitive
interface on the remote.
Should your remote have the ability to control
a mouse, be sure that it is easy and accurate to use. It becomes
considerably more difficult to rapidly position the cursor
when situated before an audience.
Input panel
It is important to think about what you will
be attaching to your projector. A well labeled input panel
can help cut down setup time. If your application results
in a ceiling mounted projector, this is not as critical.
Make sure your projector has the necessary
inputs for whatever you are using during your presentation.
This can include multiple computer inputs, various types of
video such as S-Video, composite or component (R, G, B, H,
V) and audio channels.
External peripherals
Most projectors allow the user to attach a
monitor to the unit. This allows the presenter to view what
is being projected without having to turn their back on the
audience. Keep this in mind if you plan on using an extra
monitor.
External speakers
If you plan on presenting before a medium
to large size audience, you may want a projector with a separate
audio output. Having a separate audio output allows you to
connect external speakers to the projector. Usually the audio
system built into most LCD projectors, averages around 2 to
4 watts of power. By connecting to external speakers, you
can carry your message across with whatever power level you
want. This is important in environments with lots of ambient
noise.
Powered lens
Power zoom and power focus lenses provide
quick and easy adjustment of your image. This is another plus
if you intend to be moving about during the presentation.
If you plan on permanently mounting your projector, this feature
is not as important.
4. Data and video compatibility
When you’re selecting an LCD projector,
you’ll need to know your image resolution requirements.
Whether you are running your presentation from a workstation
or a DVD player, it’s best to know ahead of time what
your needs are.
Data
Common resolutions for projectors are 640x480
(VGA), 800x600 (SVGA) and 1024x768 (XGA). 1280x1024 (SXGA)
is now available for high resolution requirements. Look for
a projector that has a native resolution which matches your
requirement. You can easily tell what your requirement is,
by the nature of the data being projected. Spreadsheets and
simple PowerPoint presentations, only need SVGA or XGA at
the most. Highly detailed CAD drawings require XGA to SXGA
projectors.
Video
Composite video standards include NTSC, SECAM
and PAL. Your projector should be able to support the video
standard you require. It is a good idea to at least have an
NTSC supported projector, which is the standard used in North
America. International users should consider the formats of
the countries they visit the most.
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