Optoma Projectors
Projectors are an essential component to any multimedia presentation or interactive environment. Available in a wide range of styles and sizes, Tech Edu has your correct projector, regardless of the application.
There are several factors to consider in choosing the right unit for your application. Not all projectors are the same, and are not universally sized – what works in one situation, may not work in another.
Screen size / Aspect ratio
How big of an image do you need to project?
Projectors come in many sizes, and have different capabilities. For example, the unit needed for a theater is significantly larger than what is used for a classroom.
Aspect ratio refers to the shape of your screen, and is the ratio of one side to another. A square surface has equal sides – its aspect ratio would be 1:1. A widescreen television is rectangular, and can have an aspect ratio of 16:9 or 16:10, as the width is greater than the height.
Throw Distance / Short throw projectors
Where are you going to mount your projector? You have a couple of options.
First, a standard projector would go in the middle of the room, either placed on a desk or mounted in the ceiling. These are very common, and usually less expensive than other styles. However, there is a drawback. Every time the beam of light is broken, a shadow will be cast on your projection surface. For example, say the projector is 10 feet from your interactive whiteboard. When you stand at the board to write on it, your back is to the projector, and you are breaking the beam of light. As a result, your body casts a shadow. The alternative is to use a short throw projector, which can be seen in the picture below.
A short throw projector mounts directly over the projection surface and operates from a short distance away. The projector would be hung from a metal arm that is installed directly over your whiteboard or projection screen. This does not eliminate shadowing 100%, but reduces it greatly.