Video Projector Key Terms

Don't let video projector technology intimidate you

Video projector key terms can seem confusing as you start searching for the right model for your business. Terms such as LCD, lumens, resolution, contrast ratio and keystone correction are often part of a video projector’s description. To make sure you get the right video projector for your situation, you should have a good understanding of these terms. The video projector terms that follow will help you learn more about these components.

 

Lumen

The lumen is the measure of light output by a video projector lamp. With video projectors, you want enough lumens to adequately display the screen in your projection room. You also need to consider whether you are going to darken the room during projection or not.
Try: PCMag.com explains lumens as they pertain to video projectors.

Resolution

The number of pixels, or dots of light, produced by a video projector onto a screen determines its resolution. More pixels result in better resolution. There are four basic types of resolution: UXGA, SXGA, XGA and SVGA.
Try: Read the complete description of each resolution type on Abby's Guide.

Contrast ratio

The contrast ratio compares the number of white pixels to black. The higher the number of black pixels, the sharper the contrast capability of the video projector. The contrast ratio is often a number such as 300:1; the first figure is the number of black pixels and the second represents the white pixels.
Try: For more information, check out Practical-Home-Theater-Guide.com.

Throw distance

The throw distance of a video projector refers to the largest size screen your projector can fill. You should find a projector compatible to your screen size.
Try: Cousin’s Video has information about video projector throw distance as well as a link to a throw distance calculator.

Keystone correction

Unless your video projector is exactly square with the projection screen, there may be some picture distortion. Keystone correction allows for this problem and corrects it. Newer projectors are using keystone correction less and relying on variable lens shifting more.
Try: This article from Gizmodo.com discusses keystone correction.

LCD, or liquid crystal display

LCD, or liquid crystal display, refers to how light projects through three panels to produce an image. One panel is red, one is green and the third is blue. LCD projectors produce images with sharp color contrasts.
Try: Read a detailed explanation of LCD displays and other video projectors key terms from Long’s Electronics.

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