Which Lcd Projector Is Right for Me and where Can I buy in Pune?
IT GEAR.IN.
Shop no 14, Sakhai plaza,
Nr. Kothrud Tel. Exchange,
Kothrud, Pune, India. Land mark- Shree Shivaji Statue. Telephone
-020-66021475, Hand Phone – 9850557001.E-mail Id-response@itgear.in
www.itgear.in
Digital projector introduction
As far as critical equipment goes, the projector you choose for your make-or-break presentation is
as important as it gets. You can spend hours memorizing figures, writing witty anecdotes on note
cards, and ironing that power suit. But even if your content is knock-’em dead good, the
effectiveness of your presentation depends on the audience being able to see it clearly. A high
quality digital projector can make the difference between a presentation that sings or falls flat.
The projector industry has exploded as notebook computers and projectors have replaced slide
trays and transparencies in conference rooms everywhere. The size and price of projectors have
shrunk accordingly, as manufacturers scramble to cater to businesses that want projection devices
that are as small and affordable as the laptops their presentations are built on.
Different projection technologies have helped pave the way for the current crop of low-weight
machines. Of course, depending on the type of projector you need, weight may not be a factor at
all. Not that that makes your decision any easier – choosing a model with the correct resolution,
brightness, and other features can still be a difficult task.
Types of Projectors
Projectors fall into three broad categories: Ultralights, conference room projectors, and fixed
installation projectors.
Ultralights (Personal)
If you are a "road warrior" – a sales or business development professional who makes frequent
presentations while on the road – an ultralight projector is probably right for you. Every year,
these lightweights get smaller. The lightest ultralight a year ago was proud to be less than five
pounds. The latest models tip the scales at just under three pounds, spurring some manufacturers
to offer an even smaller "micro portable" category.
Created to serve the mobile business community, ultralights now come close to matching larger
models in brightness and other extra features. If weight is an important issue for you, be sure to
find out the total weight of the projection system (cables, remote, case) and not just the projector.
But try not to get carried away: even on an extended trip, you are not likely to notice a difference
of six ounces and you will pay extra for the very smallest models.
Conference Room
If your projector is more likely to move from room to room rather than across the country, there
is a class of projectors created with less focus on weight and more attention to performance.
Conference room projectors, sometimes called multipurpose projectors, tend to be heavier,
brighter, and more adaptable to a large room than their ultralight counterparts. Depending on
your budget, these projectors come with many extra features such as extra computer or video
ports, remote mousing, or a laser pointer. Fixed InstallationThe pinnacle of all projectors, fixed or in-house machines are usually installed in a permanent spot
in an auditorium or presentation hall. Weighing as much as one hundred pounds, fixed machines
are the most expensive projectors of the bunch, but they also are the most powerful and versatile.
These projectors can handle different resolutions and image sizes, easily project in large, bright
rooms, and often include ceiling mounts for permanent installation. LCD projectors and DLPprojectors
Digital projectors are often referred to as "LCD projectors" even when they are not actually using
LCD technology. There are two main types of machines for projecting computer images onto a
screen: LCD projectors and DLP projectors. Though not substantial, the differences between
these technologies are important to recognize when comparing similarly priced models.
LCD (Liquid Crystal Display)
LCD projectors operate by shining light through transparent LCD cells. In older thin film
transistor (TFT) displays, transistors controlled each cell, changing their polarity to produce the
appropriate color. More common now are advanced polysilicon LCDs, which use three separate
color panels (red, green, and blue) to produce the desired color. In both types, the combination of
light shining through the LCD cells produces the desired image. DLP (Digital Light Processing)Developed by Texas Instruments in mid-1996, DLP models project images by reflecting light
against hundreds of tiny mirrors known as digital micro mirror devices (DMD). Each mirror,
representing one pixel, is individually powered by electronics that adjust the angle of the mirror
according to the color being displayed. That, along with the fact they are leading the weight loss
trend in the projector market, makes them very appealing for presentations. DLP projectors also
handle video images extremely well. LCD vs. DLPThere is no easy answer to this question of what type of technology to purchase. LCDs tend to
produce more highly saturated colors and sharper images; most DLP projectors offer deeper
blacks and higher contrast. Depending on the resolution and size of your image, you may find
LCD screens too pixilated, meaning that you notice each individual point of light. However if you
tend to display very detailed images, you may find the softness of DLP projectors to be a problem.
As a newer technology, DLP projectors were initially more expensive than similar LCD models,
but that difference has largely disappeared. We recommend that you compare two projectors with
the same brightness and resolution to see which type of projection is best for you.
LCOS projectors
The next generation of digital displays will use liquid crystal on silicon (LCOS) technology. LCOS
uses liquid crystals to control the path of light to micro mirrors. By combining elements of DLP
and LCD projectors, LCOS projects are able to create very high-resolution images with excellent
color saturation. Currently, only very high-end projectors use this technology, but the technology
will migrate to lower-priced models over the next few years. Projector weightsAs is the case with most office products, digital projectors have a few important features that are
crucial to understand before making the right purchase. The projector type, resolution, brightness,
lamp type, and lens specifications will all depend on the primary role the projector will fill: part of
your traveling show? or permanent addition to your conference room?
Weight
The first feature that you should decide upon is projector weight – or whether weight is even an
issue. If the projector is going to be mounted in a board room or carted from office to office, how
much it weighs is not going to be a key consideration.
On the other hand, if you plan on bringing your projector on external sales pitches or to
conferences, weight will be critical to your future happiness. While a couple of pounds may not
sound significant, consider lugging that weight from the office to a taxi to an airplane, back in the
taxi and then over to the conference center. And do not forget you will also be toting your laptop,
your notes, and any other extraneous materials.
The lightest projectors on the market are now tipping the scales below three pounds. While
projectors have gotten lighter and lighter recently, they seem to be about as light as they are going
to get for the time being. And remember, the projector weight does not equal what you will be
carrying through the airport. Be sure to ask about the total weight of the package, including the
carrying case and any other peripherals that come with the projector.
LCD projector brightness and lamp type
Brightness
Your presentation will crash and burn if your projector cannot produce enough light to throw
images across a room and onto a screen. Accordingly, the brightness (measured in ANSI lumens)
of your LCD projector or DLP projector is worth investigating.
While projectors with less than 1000 ANSI lumens may be sufficient for projecting black and
white images in dark rooms, they may not have enough firepower to keep multicolored
PowerPoint presentations from appearing washed out. When deciding how much brightness your
projector should have, keep in mind how dark the rooms will typically be for your presentations
and how far your projector will be from the screen. The basic rule of thumb is that big rooms with
more light require brighter projectors. Also, if you are often on the road, keep in mind that
projector screens are much better reflectors than plain walls, so they make projected images much
more visible. You may need more brightness if you often present in locations without screens.
Brightness for projectors currently ranges from 1,000 for ultralights up to as much as 10,000 for
fixed machines. For on-the-road presentations, 1,000 to 2,000 lumens should be fine, while larger
conference rooms will need 2,000 to 4,000 lumens. Fixed installation machines in large
auditoriums can require 4,000 to 5,000 lumens and up – but be prepared, these machines carry
much higher price tags.
Lamp Type
Also related to image brightness is lamp type. The most common types of lamps now used in
projectors are UHP (Ultra High Performance) and UHE (Ultra High Efficiency) lamps; some
models still use metal halide, as well. Lamp life will be rated for any projector you buy – typical
lifespans are between 1,000 and 4,000 hours, with replacement bulbs running $250 – $600. Lamps
can be one of the hidden costs of a projector, as they are likely to burn out or break sometime
over the life of your machine. Knowing the replacement cost of the lamp can help you determine
your future spending on a given projector.
If you are comparing two projectors of the same brightness, ask about the wattage of their
respective lamps. If there is a difference, go with the projector that has a lower-powered bulb.
The low-watt lamp will last longer, stay cooler, and be more efficient than a bulb with a higher
wattage. Also look for projectors that have an "economy mode." This setting reduces the power
consumption of the projector, cutting brightness by about 20% in exchange for less noise, reduced
electricity usage, and longer lamp lifespans. Some models have a bulb lifespan of 3,000 hours in
economy mode, as opposed to 2,000 hours in standard mode.
Digital projectors resolution
Resolution refers to the number of dots of light that appear on a screen or a projection to make up
a projected image. Take care to note the "native" resolution of the digital projectors you are
interested in – while a projector may be able to work with several different resolutions, there is
one native resolution at which it works best.
Choosing the right resolution for your projector is as easy as knowing the resolution of your
computer. If you plan on upgrading your PC after getting a new projector, you are best off buying
a projector with a fairly high resolution that will match newer laptops.
Your presentation will not come to a screeching halt if the resolution on your notebook and
projector differ. Virtually all models can accept higher or lower resolution images than their native
resolution via interpolation, which either expands or compresses the pixels that compose the
image. However, expect to lower your image quality standards a bit for such interpolated images
since this will usually degrade the quality.
The two most common resolutions right now are SVGA (800×600) and XGA (1024×768).
Higher resolutions like SXGA (1,280×1,024) will dramatically increase the price you should
expect to pay. VGA (640×480) is no longer an acceptable resolution, and you would be
hard-pressed to find modern projectors that support it.
Projector lenses
You would not put down cash for a camera without learning about what type of lens came it
used. The same rule applies when purchasing a projector.
With zoom lenses being nearly standard on today’s projectors, check how much a lens’ f-number
(the smaller the number, the more light) changes at different zoom settings. If the change is
minimal your image will remain uniformly bright regardless of lens position.
Some lenses are now manufactured using lightweight plastics. If weight is not an issue, try to find
a machine with an all-glass lens. Glass is the optimal filter for projecting images and will give you
a clearer picture. However, glass lenses do make a projector heavier, so pick plastic if you are
going to be on the road a lot. Optional lenses are also available through some manufacturers and
resellers. If your conference room machine will be called upon to project at different positions,
angles, and varying room brightness, you should ask about interchangeable lenses.
Digital projector prices
Projector prices vary dramatically, ranging from under $800 at the low end to well over $40,000
at the high end – ultra-high performance projectors for auditoriums can hit $200,000. Keep in
mind the market is extremely competitive and prices continue to drop each year. The two features
that have the biggest impact on price are resolution and brightness.
Most ultralight SVGA projectors fall between $800 and $2,000, with XGA’s going between
$1,500 and $4,000. Prices for conference room and fixed installation machines vary depending on
resolution, brightness, and other extras, but expect to spend between $4,000 and $10,000 for a
good system, or more if you are outfitting a large auditorium.
Prices also vary among dealers, so it usually pays to shop around. Often, the same model (with
only slight variations in features) may be sold by as many as four different manufacturers under
different names. Additionally, some manufacturers may give special pricing to their top dealers,
which can translate to larger discounts for you.
Projector warranties and service
LCD projector warranties range from one to three years on parts and labor depending on the
manufacturer. When offered, standard bulb coverage tends to be for 90 days.
If you travel frequently, you will want to check into warranties that cover 24-hour projector
replacement in the event that shipping the projector back to the manufacturer for repair will take
too long. If you are considering a projector whose warranty does not offer overnight
replacements, it does not necessarily mean that you are out of luck. Some manufacturers work
informally with their resellers to offer such services. Talk to potential dealers to find out if they
would be willing to offer such a service.
When purchasing a projector, make sure to inquire about return policies. Some discount vendors
simply do not accept returns – others may charge surprisingly high restocking fees. While you are
not likely to need to return a new projector, understanding the policies can help you avoid a nasty
surprise.
Renting/Leasing
If the idea of an $8,000 hole in your budget keeps you from picking out the perfect addition to
your conference room, there are other options. It is fairly common to rent or lease a projector for
an agreed-upon monthly fee. Three-year leases tend to run from $125 to $250 per month for a
moderately priced model. More LCD projector buying tipsHere are some more tips to help you pick the right LCD projector or DLP projector for your
needs. Much like air conditioning or power steering in a new car, these extras may help make
your projector more manageable in difficult presenting conditions.
Inputs
The projector you buy is not an island unto itself. You will probably be hooking up a laptop or
two, maybe a mouse, a VCR, or audio player to boot. Be sure to check out your input and output
options and buy the projector that can meet your connectivity needs. Remote ControlWhile the remote that comes with your projector may not be a life or death feature, it is
important. The ideal remote lets you control all the features you use during a presentation without
making it too complex. With your remote, you should be able to: advance slides, control audio
volume, switch between input sources, laser point, and zoom. In addition, most come standard
with remote mousing capabilities and screen markup that allows you to digitally draw on a screen
to highlight areas of interest.
Infrared remotes work just like TV remotes – they require a direct line of sight between the
remote and the unit. Radio frequency (RF) remotes that do not require line of sight are becoming
more common and can be useful if you have employees who like to pace around the room while
giving a presentation.
Picture Adjustment
You should be able to set the contrast, brightness, and sharpness for a presentation. "Keystone"
correction is useful if you have to set up the projector at an angle – it allows you to square up the
borders of the picture and remove distortion. Automatic keystone correction takes care of the
adjustment for you. Better models allow you to save different settings for each input source.
Projection Options
For permanent installations, you may want to look for a model that can be adjusted for rear
projection or inverse projection to make the projector less intrusive. Rear projection flips the
image so the projector can be positioned behind the screen, while inverse projection turns the
image upside down for projectors that are mounted on a ceiling. MemoryIf you plan on giving the same presentation to different audiences, you might want to look into
projector memory capabilities. Memory presentation allows you to run a previously stored
presentation without a computer. Simply insert a disk into the machine or a PC card into a
PCMCIA slot, and present away. This can result in substantially less luggage, but is only useful if
you do not anticipate having to make changes to the presentation on the fly.
IT GEAR.IN.
Shop no 14, Sakhai plaza,
Nr. Kothrud Tel. Exchange,
Kothrud, Pune, India. Land mark- Shree Shivaji Statue. Telephone -020-66021475, Hand Phone –
9850557001.E-mail -response@itgear.inwww.itgear.in
IT GEAR.IN. Shop no 14, Sakhai plaza, Nr. Kothrud Tel. Exchange, Kothrud, Pune, India. Land mark- Shree Shivaji Statue. Telephone -020-66021475, Hand Phone – 9850557001.E-mail Id-response@itgear.in Which Projector is right for you? Which Multimedia Projector is right for you? Company-in-Confidence 2 There are a huge variety of projectors to choose from in the market today. What is important? is to select the projector that is right for you. When comparing projectors, keep in mind the features that are more important to you. Sometimes a trade off becomes necessary and making a list of features in order of priority would be a good idea. Only you can decide which projector is best for you. The first trade-off you’ll confront is between cost and performance. Tell your vendor up-front whether price is an issue. That way he can steer you toward lower-priced projectors. But don’t expect cutting edge performance – as with all things electronic, performance comes at a premium. Of course, if pri
