The most common question about projector screens is "Do I need a projector screen?".
When you have spent
some money buying the ideal projector it can be tempting to try and save some by not buying a screen and using a wall instead, but it is a false saving.
Projector screens have been specifically designed and developed to get the best results out of a projector. Unlike a wall, a screen's surface reflects the image in the right direction without absorbing any light; some screens can even enhance the picture. So when you have bought a projector it is worth spending a little more on a projector screen to get the best out of it.
But how do you choose the right one? Here we have explained the most important features to help you choose. |
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1. Projector Screen Type
2. Projector Screen Format
3. Projector Screen Size
4. Fabric Type |
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1. Projector Screen Type |
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| Your application will be the deciding factor in what projector screen type to choose: |
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Tripod screens are portable and ideal for use on the move or when you can't install a screen in your office or home.
Their low price makes them a popular choice. |
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Portable screens are lighter and easier to setup than tripods. This makes them more popular for mobile solutions.
Their price is slightly higher than tripod screens' but they look more professional and are more practical. |
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Manual screens can be installed on a wall or ceiling (check the model as not all of them can be easily installed on the ceiling) and the fabric is pulled down when needed and rolled back up when not in use.
They are the most affordable screens available and used widely in homes and businesses. |
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Electric screens can be installed on a wall or ceiling. Most models come as standard with a wall switch to roll the fabric down and back up but some also come with a remote control (or you can buy one as an option).
Although they are more expensive than manual screens, electric screens are more durable as the fabric doesn't get pulled. |
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Tab Tensioned screens are electric screens where the fabric is taught from the sides. Being tab tensioned prevents any curling of the sides or waves in the fabric. It makes these screens even more durable than standard electric screens. |
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Ceiling recessed screens are as the name suggests hidden above the ceiling. They are electrically operated. When not in use there is nothing visible except a small opening (some screens have a trap door to close the opening) for the screen to come down.
Although the best solution is to have a purpose made ceiling recessed screen, a more affordable alternative is to have a standard electric screen with a ceiling recessed kit (only available on some models). |
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Fast Fold screens are screens that can be folded into a case to be transported. They are used for larger sizes where a tripod or portable screen isn't suitable.
They are available with a choice of front and/or rear projection fabric. |
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Fixed Frame screens look like the fabric has been installed in a picture frame. They are for fixed solutions where the screen is installed on a wall and visible at all times. Because the fabric is taught on all sides it will not curl or have any wave and the screen is very durable.
The black surround frames the projected image and increases the perceived contrast. |
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Rear Projection screens are used when the projector is behind the screen. There are several types of rear projection screens: rigid acrylic screens often used in shop windows, fast fold rear projection screens for portable solutions or manual and electric rear projection screens. |
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2. Projector Screen Format |
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We always recommend you match the format or aspect ratio of the screen to the native format of your projector so the image fits perfectly.
Most business projectors are in 4:3 format while home cinema models are in 16:9 format, but they can usually be switched to a different format in the projector menu. |
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1:1 format is square and used mostly with overhead projectors |
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4:3 is the format used on most computers and projectors |
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16:9 or widescreen is the format used on home cinema projectors and some laptop computers |
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3. Projector Screen Size |
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The room size and the positioning of the audience are the overriding factors in deciding the correct screen size. The audience should not be too close to the screen - otherwise they will only see the whole image by constantly moving their heads. On the other hand they should also not be too far away - otherwise their eyes will get tired quite quickly.
The minimum distance from the screen to the front row should be 1.5x the screen width , the maximum distance from the screen to the back of the audience should not exceed 6x the screen width. |
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4. Fabric Type |
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There are many different types of screen fabric available with most well-known manufacturers such as Draper or Da-Lite developing their own types and giving them various names.
Generally the main categories of projector screen fabric are standard matte white, high gain, high contrast and rear projection. In each category are several types and variations.
Matte White is the most commonly used type and is suitable for the majority of applications from home cinema to business use. Screens kept in stock are usually matte white and different, more specialised, fabrics are made to order.
Matte white has a refection ratio of 1:1 meaning that what is projected is reflected back without any gain or loss.
High Gain fabrics concentrate and reflect the light in a smaller cone so the image appears to be brighter than what is projected. This is particularly useful with low brightness projectors used in a bright room however the smaller visible cone and viewing angle means the image will be less visible if the viewer is to the side of the screen.
High Contrast fabrics are grey and help improve the contrast of the image by making dark colours, in particular black, look darker than what the projector produces. This type of fabric is popular with home cinema users.
Rear projection fabric as the name suggests is to use in a rear projection setup. It is translucent yet retains the projected image so viewers can see it while being on the other side of the screen.
There are many specialist fabrics such as acoustic perforated, glass beaded etc. so if you need specialist advice don't hesitate to contact us on 0845 2608500. |
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