Choosing a Projection Screen
By: Kimberle Johnson
Are your students seeing what your projector is projecting? As a teacher, you know the importance of technology to assist in the learning process.
One of the most essential tools is a projection screen to clearly and effectively show your students what is being presented to them. Choosing the correct screen can make a difference for your student’s classroom experience.
Here are some of the most important factors that go into choosing a projector screen so you can make the right decision.
Screen Types
There are several varieties of screen types.
1. Classic Tripod Screen
The benefits of the classic tripod are that it is durable, comes in many formats and has good stability. Also, the screen height is adjustable to accommodate most ceiling heights.
The disadvantages are that this type is awkward for traveling, as it is bulky, and the set-up time is consuming.
2. Ultra Portable Screen
The primary benefit of the ultra portable screen is the easy set-up, as the screen pulls up from the case. It is ideal for presenters on the move. Also, the screen surface enhances reflectivity.
The disadvantage is that there are limited sizes available, and this screen does not accommodate larger audiences.
3. Fast Fold Screen
This type of screen is available is both front and rear projection applications. It has the ability to be “dressed” with drapery kits to enhance its appearance. Additionally, it comes with a traveling case.
As far as the disadvantages, this type of screen can be cumbersome, and it has prolonged set-up times.
4. Manual Screen
Manual screens feature a simple, pull-down design. They are cost-effective and easy to install.
However, these screens can develop wrinkles over time. Additionally, the pull-down cord can be tempting to students.
5. Electric Screen
Electric screens feature ease of operation, and they are concealable and attractive.
This is a medium to high priced option, and you have the additional cost of wiring and installation.
6. Fixed Screen
These screens have a consistent flat surface and excellent image quality. They can be used to achieve a “theater-like” atmosphere.
This is a medium to high priced option, and it requires permanent wall space.
7. Paint-on-Screens
New on the screen scene is paint-on-screen. You can easily paint a base and topcoat on a flat, primed surface.
These are cost-effective and more reflective than standard wall paint. However, they are also time-consuming and non-portable, as they are permanently painted on wall space.
Screen Surfaces
There are several types of screen surfaces, with different attributes designed to accentuate the projected image. The two best choices for schools are matte white or high-contrast matte white.
The advantage of a matte white surface is high gain (greater reflection of light) and a wide viewing angle (more students can view the image). Also, it is the easiest surface to clean.
With the introduction of high-brightness LCD and DLP projectors (3000ANSILumen and above), using a high-contrast matte white (actually light grey in color) material will increase the contrast ratio. However, it does lower the gain and viewing angle.
Your choice will be largely dictated by your projector selection, seating arrangements and how much you can control the ambient light in the room.
Screen Sizes, Formats and Aspect Ratio
Screen sizes start as small as 40 inches diagonal (corner to corner) and go up to 15-foot giants for fabric screens. Painted screens could go even larger. The usual idea is bigger is better, but you need to take into account the output and throw distance (the distance the projector must be from the screen to fill it with your image) of your projector. If you have ever had to sit too close in a movie theater, you know that gigantic images can be difficult to view at close distances. Try to find the happy medium of a respectable size but one that does not overwork the projector or make your installation a nightmare.
Formats and aspect ratios are terms that are similar if not completely interchangeable. Due to the advent of HDTV, the 16:9 aspect ratio has become more popular, while the standard 4:3 TV or video aspect ratio is still prevalent, as most computers output in this mode.
Square format screens are almost exclusively used in school applications where overhead projectors continue to be used. You should match up your screen aspect ratio to your projectors.
Screen Pricing
For many people, price is the single most important consideration when choosing a screen. Some small portable screens retail for less than $200. Installed manual screens also start in the $200 range and move up based on size and features. Paint-on-screens are very competitively priced for the size of screen you can achieve. Electric and permanent wall mounts generally cost more, starting in the $400 to $500 range and increasing in price for larger formats and extra features, with most popular models in the $700 to $1,200 range.
The advantages of a projection screen are easy to see for a classroom of students. A projection screen enables students to clearly view what is being presented to them. Your audio/visual salesperson may ask even more questions to try narrowing the choices further and giving you the optimum viewing experience.
Kimberle Johnson is a copywriter for AVsuperstore.com.
