An Introduction to DLP & LCD Projectors
There are a multitude of specifications and parameters to take into account when buying for example a new or used DLP Video Projector. This article aspires to cover only two of the many projector parameters to consider. The two that we will cover today are brightness and projector panel technology type. Knowledge is always a good thing, and we hope that learning about these two parameters will allow you to make the most informed buying decision about your next digital projector.
Choosing The Right Brightness
Brightness is particularly important when it comes to choosing projectors. You should be sure to consider your set up location when choosing a projector. In addition to light and lumens, adjustability plays an important role for portable projectors. The higher the brightness threshold is, the pricier it’s certainly going to be. The following are some rough guidelines for recommended projector brightness levels in lumens. Remember these are only loose guidelines. As technology advances, brighter projectors will be cheaper and the standards will move upwards.
• 3000 or more ANSI lumens. Good for projecting in bright areas, convention stages, outdoor concerts or large theater venues.
• 1800 - 3000 ANSI lumens. Perfect for classroom presentations and big lectures, high end home theater and TV viewing, DVDs and more.
• 1000 to 1800 ANSI lumens, good for basic entertainment purposes, portable business presentations, static graphics and inexpensive game use.
Projector Technology Type
The main projector types are LCD and DLP. LCD happens to be the most popular technology these days. As the technology is more common and less proprietary, LCD panels like those in the NEC LCD Projector are slightly cheaper than DLP panels. Projectors that use LCD technology are also known to produce deeper color saturation and generally seem to be capable of greater brightness levels.
DLP projectors can be in the similar price range but are often capable of greater contrasts with darker blacks than the LCD. DLP also has a reputation for working well in home theater use and for doing a great job at projecting film like images. Some say DLP is more durable when it comes to long-lasting performance compared to the standard LCD. Be sure to view some of the actual specifications of a typical DLP unit like the DLP Home Theater Projectors to see how the specs you just learned about add up in actual projector models.