For the large Home Cinema systems, a Video projector, combined with a large screen, is almost a must. Here it is important
to generate as much light onto the screen as possible with as much definition as possible. While many of the projectors are
designed for high-quality business presentations using a computer, they do not necessarily make good projectors for cinema
use. So what sort of things do we look for?
Video connectors - the most important consideration is that the projector is compatible with the best modes that
are available from your DVD player. Most support composite and S-video, but if you have component signals make sure they are
compatible i.e Y, R-Y, B-Y or Y PbPr).
LCD or DLP - earlier models used LCD displays, but after a slow start and a few colour issues, DLP displays now
offer brighter, clearer images on the screen.
Resolution - while SVGA (800 x 600) are ok, XGA (1024 x 768) generally give a better picture, but for home cinema
use experts recommend WVGA (854 x 480) mode. SXGA (1280 x 1024) models are available but these are only suitable for CAD/CAM
or ultra-high resolutuion graphics.
Brightness - this is measured in Lumens and the higher the number the brighter the picture. For home cinema use
1000 lumens should be considered the minimum, while 2500 lumens will probably be the upper limit for the average home,
although some projectors can deliver 6000 lumens or more.
Zoom Lens - a good zoom lens enables you to utilise the maximum size screen from the optimum projector location. If
the zoom range is inadequate the image may not fit the screen or the projector may need to be moved closer to the screen.
Keystone Correction - this allows the projector to be mounted higher than the screen and the resulting keystone
effect can be electronically corrected within the projector to give the perfect shape picture.
Lamp Life - probably one of the scariest parts of video projectors is replacing the lamp. It's not that is
difficult to do, it is just that the lamps cost between $500 and $1000 each, although they do last a long time (1000-2000
hours) if the instructions are followed and allowed to cool before moving etc.
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