Projector Installation
Are you seeking maxim in screen real-estate for the money? Do you want the big impact of the true movie theatre experience at home? When it comes to projectors, it is size that really matters.
Most movie buffs will dream of a home theatre experience, projectors allow this for a much lower cost that typical large scale TVs. While there are obvious large benefits of the projector system for home entertainment, there are also some setbacks and watch outs that need to be considered.
Considerations when Choosing a Projector Entertainment System
Room selection: a common misconception is that a projector requires a big room. Actually the room can be relatively small, however the projector wall will limit the size of the final picture. Small rooms with a big enough wall make for some of the best cinema rooms. A darkened room will typically improve the picture quality of most common projector systems, although some high quality products can work as well in a bright room as in a darkened one.
Projector mounting: the projector system is typically quite small, relative to a typical TV size now days. There are ideal for use in an hidden ceiling nook, or on a motorized drop. The projector can even be built into furnishings such as coffee tables, couch arms or fixed place ottomans. However, most commonly projectors are mounted to either the wall or the ceiling. Motorized drops can allow for very high ceilings, and motorised arms can drop a distance of up to 3 meters.
Screen mounting: while projectors can display on painted walls, a screen will allow for the best possible picture by enabling a completely flat and highly reflective surface. Screen vary in size and the specification of the projector will be able to determine the size of the screen potential. Screens can be installed as manual pull / roll down, or they can be mortised to drop down on start up of the entertainment system. Screens are also available in either flat or curved, with the curved screens providing a wider video playback service in a smaller room space.
Side masking: screens can also auto adjust to cater for different video formats from 1:1, 4:3, 16:9, 2.35:1 right through to true cinema scope. This requires motorized side masking that is programmed to detect the video format.
Common Home Projection Technologies
DLP – Digital light processing (DLP) uses a moving mirror per pixel to focus light at the screen. Typically the DLP is the top quality, however only if it is 3 chip, and this can get pricy. Single chip DLP can be limited in terms of colour reproduction.
LCD – Liquid Crystal Display typically uses three liquid crystal panels to augment the light from a standard lamp. While the LCD does not outperform the three chip DLP, it is considered to be the best value for money option, in terms of colour reproduction and brightness.
D-ILA – Digital Direct Drive Image Light Amplifier direct drive image light amplification allows the light and the colour to be produced from the same point. Can lack brightness when compared to other technologies.
Best For Home Projectors
Epson LCD – Epson is the largest producer of projectors in the word, for both commercial and residential audio visual. Through a good dealer this brand provides great value for money. Their stand out is a key focus on accurate colour reproduction.
Projection Design – 3 chip DLP – The best image that money can buy, if a 3 chip DLP projector is within the AV budget. Perfect motion, outstanding colour reproduction and the widest range of lens options. Each projector is built to order and calibrated specifically for the situation.
JVC D-ILA – A very popular option at the moment, with a multiple price options. However unless you have a dedicated room the lack of brightness can be an issue. Designers beware; units are quite large and need to be housed discreetly.
A Typical Projector Install
The following steps outline a typical projector installation process.
1. Firstly, give the office a call to chat to one of our consultants
2. A time will be arranged for a site visit
3. Choosing the best arrangement for equipment and discussing budgets
4. The products will be ordered from the recommended and trusted AV brands
5. Install will commence once the equipment is ready
6. Running the necessary cables will be the first step to readying the site
7. Physically mounting the projector either to the ceiling or wall
8. Mounting a motorised or manual projection screen to nearby wall. Remember the typical distance is between 3.5m to 5.5 meters, depending on the projector model and the desired size of the screen
9. Connecting the cables to the source equipment, including power, audio, data etc.
10. A detailed process of alignment is key with projection equipment. Note: the quality of the bracket will affect the consultant ability to align the projector.
11. Calibration of colours, sound and integration with other technology will give the best experience
12. Typical installation usually includes a high end surround sound system for the best in the home theatre experience
13. Optional remote control programming for the customised control panel (using an iPad or smart phone device)
14. Grab a bowl of popcorn and take a seat for a the best in home theatre projection
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