Let’s break down what a video projector is as simple as possible. Basically the projector receives an input from a device like a computer, television or some other device and outputs, or projects, the image onto a large screen or wall. Projectors have been around for several years, but they have recently gotten to the point where the picture is as good as it is on a HDTV. A projection screen has always been a neat device to behold, but many times we were fooled by the size of the image and didn’t realize the quality was bad. Now we don’t have to worry about that anymore.
Digital Video Projector Resolutions
Now the resolution of video projectors is in line with the TVs or monitors we have today. You can get them with resolutions in SVGA, XGA, 720p and 1080p. SVGA is 800 x 600, XGA is 1024 x 768, 720p is 1280 x 720 and 1080p is 1920 x 1080. Resolution is one of the main factors to look for when buying a digital video projector, but it isn’t the only one.
Lumens – Bring on the Light
Another thing to look for when buying a video projector is the lumens. Lumens, or lm, is the light output of the projector. The larger the screen you will be casting on or the more light in the room the higher the lumens rating will need to be in order to see the picture clearly. 1500 to 2500 lumens would work if you have a small screen and little ambient light shinging in the room. If you have a medium-sized screen, a little ambient light or dim light then a projector rated at 2500 to 4000 lumens should be more than ideal for you. If you have a large screen or have to fight with lots of light coming in then you will want to look for something over 4000 lumens to show the image best.
DLP or LCD
The two most popular types of projectors available today are the DLP and the LCD. The LCD is probably the most common one available today as it is the simplest to build. That means it is also the most affordable option. It does not have the quality of image of a DLP, but it may suffice for many people to fit what they are needing.
DLP is a technology created by Texas Instruments. They use Digital Micromirror Devices (DMDs) which are rotating color wheels that are synced with mirrors to create color. Devices with one and two DMDs sometimes have an issue with rainbow artifact, but those with three DMDs do not have this issue.
These are just a few of the things to look for when you look into buying a digital video projector. There are many other things to consider as well such as what kind of inputs it has. You need to know this to see if it will work with the device you are using to show the image like a laptop, Blu-Ray player, etc.