Projector Installation For Houston Smart Homes
Detailed steps on installing a projector and how much detail goes into designing a projector system for your space.
01
Choosing a Projector
Different types of projectors are better for different rooms. Despite what the spec sheet at your local big box would tell you, lumens or other specs do NOT tell the entire story. Pay attention to the optic your projector uses. Is is true glass, or plastique?
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LCD vs. DLP vs. LCOS:
LCD: bright and energy efficient, but may sacrifice contrast and may not be a 100% true 4K image.
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DLP: Was the industry standard for years in professional cinemas. Usually darker image but improved contrast. However, some viewers may notice the "rainbow effect" when watching which is too distracting for some.
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LCOS: A newer hybrid technology. You get added brightness while maintaining good contrast. Cons: usually higher priced compared to LCD or DLP.
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Still need help deciding what will work best? Give us a call or CLICK HERE to schedule a free walkthrough of your room for a personalized recommendation.
02
Choosing a Screen
Screen material MATTERS! Many think a bedsheet will give the same image as a quality manufactured screen, its simply not true. We have samples of different screen materials you can test.
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Pitch black room: You can be totally happy with a basic white vinyl screen material.
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Ambient Light In The Room: You need an ambient light rejecting screen (ALR for short). This is especially helpful if you do not want the room dark all the time, or you're inviting your neighbors over to watch the big game.
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You can also CLICK HERE for information on the brands we partner with to complete your project.
03
Getting Accurate Measurments
If your AV designer isn't taking measurements during your projector consultation, something is wrong. Every projector lens aperture is different and "throw distance" will vary wildly.
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For example, entry level projectors in addition to have inferior components and optics will have a very narrow throw-ratio window and my not have fine tuning adjustments to assist the picture to fit your screen. Choosing a projector will a larger throw distance helps with a smoother installation, and getting better performance is an added bonus.
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On a budget? Getting a budget model may end up costing you more. Many professionals charge more to install a projector will an unforgiving throw range and lack of adjustments. Many will charge less labor to install the better projectors because it make everyone's experience better!
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If natural sunlight is a problem in your media room you might want to consider motorized shading solutions. CLICK HERE for more information.
04
What Happens If You Don't Plan Properly
The keystone effect:
If the throw range or mounting level of the projector isn't planned and installed properly you may have to use keystone settings to get the image to fit your screen.
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Keystoning' is the act of adjusting the corners of the image to force the image to fit, but your image will eventually take a trapezoid shape which will be hard to ignore.