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Getting to know LCD Projectors

LCD Projector Resolution: The sharpness and clarity of the picture on the screen is determined by a projector's resolution. Resolution is simply the number of pixels (or "picture elements") the projector uses to create the image. The more pixels it uses, the "higher" the resolution.

Resolution is usually quoted in two numbers, such as "800 x 600," where the first number refers to the number of pixels from side to side across the screen, and the second number refers to the number of pixels vertically from top to bottom.

True Resolution/Native Resolution: When speaking of a projector's resolution, it is common to refer to "true" or "native" resolution. If a projector's native resolution is 800 x 600, that means that the actual number of physical pixels on the display device is 800 x 600. In some projector models, specifications show compatibility with higher resolutions. This is achieved through the use of compression technology.

Advantage of Higher Resolution: High resolution projectors are able to show more picture details than low resolution projectors. Also, since there are more pixels used to make the image, each individual pixel is smaller, so the pixels themselves become less visible on the screen. However, you will pay more for higher resolution.

Advantage of Lower Resolution: Lower resolution projectors are much less expensive, and they can produce images that are just as bright and attractive as higher resolution machines. Unless you really have a need to display fine details, lower resolution products will be your best bet from a cost perspective.

Resolution options: Your basic choices for native, or true resolution are the following:

  1. SVGA, or "800 x 600" - This is a very popular resolution today, because of their attractive prices and great images.
  2. XGA, or "1,024 x 768" - XGA projectors are generally more expensive, and are an equally popular resolution format to SVGA. They have become more popular as XGA resolution computers have become more plentiful.
  3. SXGA, or "1,280 x 1,024" - SXGA products are high resolution, and notably more expensive than XGA. These products are targeted for high end personal computer users and low end workstation users. They are used primarily for command and control, engineering and CAD/CAM applications where acute resolution of small details is important.
  4. UXGA, or "1,600 x 1,200" - UXGA is for very high resolution workstation applications that are detail or information intensive. These are expensive projectors that support a broad range of computer equipment. Relatively few products on the market have this native resolution.

 
Zoom lens: If you are using your projector for mobile applications, a zoom lens can be very handy. It gives you the ability to set the projector at a convenient location, and adjust the projected image size. Without a zoom lens, the only way to adjust the picture size is move the projector forward or back. A note of caution though--many of the micro-portables have zoom lenses with limited range. A unit with a zoom factor of 1.2x will only let you adjust picture size by 20%. You can often move the projector a foot or two either way and accomplish the same adjustment. Nevertheless, if you have a fixed screen size you are trying to fill, even a limited range zoom will make it easier to fine tune the image size to the screen.

Keystone Correction: In addition to the zoom lens feature, mobile users should consider the benefits of keystone correction. The keystone effect happens when you project an image from any angle except straight onto the projection surface and results in an image that is not completely square. Many projectors now include a feature that corrects horizontal keystone (when you are projecting downward or upward). Others go a step further and provide additional correction for vertical displacement (when you are projecting from either side of the screen).

Contrast: Contrast is the ratio between the brightest and darkest areas of the image. Contrast ratios should be high (400:1 or higher) to get the best video image or the most legible computer/graphics image. Room light substantially impacts contrast ratios. If you intend to use your projector with the lights on, consider projectors with very high contrast ratios.

Rear Projection Capability: If you want to set up your projector to shoot from behind a screen, it needs to have the ability to reverse the image so that it looks right on the screen. Most projectors have this feature today, but if you need it, you can eliminate any projector that doesn't have this capability from your short list.

Video Format Compatibility: The standard video formats are NTSC, PAL, and SECAM. Many projectors accept all three, but if you'll be playing video from Europe, pay special attention to whether the projector you're considering can accept PAL and SECAM formats.

Video Signal Standards: Most video devices accept composite and S-video as two types of signal transmission. Almost all projectors will accept both inputs. However, there is a new standard known as component video. Some of the new DVD players offer a component video output signal in addition to composite and S-video. You will also be able to get component video signals from some satellite systems. Televisions and projectors that are equipped to handle the component video signal will produce a superior video image than those which cannot. If you are interested in optimizing video performance and you have a video source that offers component video output, check to see which of the projectors on your list are capable of accepting a component video signal. The spec sheet may say component video, or alternatively (Y, R-Y, B-Y) or YPbPr.

Ceiling Mountable: If you want to mount your projector on the ceiling, it will need the capability to project the image upside down. The large majority of projectors will do this today, but verify that this feature exists. Also, you must verify that a ceiling mount exists as an option for this product.

Universal Power Supply: Universal power supply means the projector will automatically detect different voltage levels, such as 110 volts in the United States or 220 volts in Europe, and adapt easily to them both. If you plan to travel with your projector in countries with different power systems, this is a must.

Multiple Computer Ports: If you want to connect multiple computers or video sources to the projector simultaneously, you will need multiple input jacks to accommodate this. For example, you may want to connect a notebook computer and a desktop computer to support two consecutive presentations, or two different presenters. If your projector only has one computer source, you'll have to unplug the notebook and plug in the desktop between speakers. Check to make sure the projector has enough connections to support your typical use.

Data Signal Ports: Most importantly, make sure the projector you choose supports the computers you intend to use now and in the near future. This is a significant investment and the pace of change in the computer industry should be a consideration. PC and PC compatiables are nearly always supported with a direct connection, but Macintosh may be a separate connector or require an adaptor. If you are using a workstation, check that the models you intend to use are supported in the manner you intend to use them and if adaptors are needed, know whether they are included or an additional cost item.