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Projector Buying Considerations
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. Consider projectors with very high contrast ratios if you intend to use your projector with the lights on.
Rear Projection Capability - If you want to set up a rear-projection system, the model must have the ability to reverse the image so that it appears correctly on the screen. Most models have this feature today, but if you need it, you can eliminate any projector that does not have this capability from your short list.
Video Format Compatibility - The standard video formats are NTSC, PAL, and SECAM. Many projectors accept all three.
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 do this today but you must verify that a ceiling mount exists as an option for this product.
Universal Power Supply - Universal power supply means the unit 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 unit simultaneously, you will need multiple input jacks to accommodate this.
Data Signal Ports - Most importantly, make sure the model 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 compatibles 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.
Uniformity - The uniformity of brightness and contrast between black and white are just as important to overall image quality as the oft-cited brightness figure. Manufacturers who focus too intently on boosting the lumens number may offer models that produce noticeable hot spots in the center of the picture or washed-out images due to over-lighting. Uniformity and contrast figures can help you pinpoint these potential problems.
Color temperature - This is often referred to as "white point" and it affects how accurately a projector displays whites and grays. Historically, color temperatures of 6,500 and 9,000 degrees Kelvin have been considered "ideal" temperatures for "true white" in video and data modes, respectively, and they are still good reference points. Our brain's perception of white varies as the light source changes, and today's brighter light bulbs generally give us different shades than their predecessors did 60 years ago, when these lighting standards were created. Specific viewing environments also affect our perceptions of white and other colors.
Color reproduction and sharpness - These also affect the image quality, but they are harder to quantify without very technical data. AV Avenue's image comparisons (found in various product reviews) can be helpful in evaluating these criteria, and they will help you understand what to look for in a selection of projectors.
Projector Buying Tips:
An Introduction to Projectors
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