Furniture Fast Facts:
Projection Screens and Projector Mounts
Create great presentations and special event productions with these helpful tips for finding the right projection screen and projector mount for your school, church or facility:
IMAGE SIZE : Your space size will determine how large of an image you should project so that the entire audience can comfortably view. A 4:3 aspect ratio is most popular in schools running their presentation software on a PC or laptop. 4 representing the width and 3 representing the height of the projected image.
The recommended screen width should be equal to the distance from the last audience seat to the screen, divided by 8. For example, if the last seat in the space is 40 feet from the screen, the screen width should be 5 feet. Look for the 60”x60” screen available in the AV Projector Screen section of this website.
SCREEN OPTIONS : We have several projection screens available that provide a professional viewing area without breaking the budget. All screens are made of a matte white fabric that is the best all around viewing surface for today’s projectors. These screens can be mounted on the wall, ceiling or map rail found on classroom whiteboards and chalkboards. For a more portable option, choose a tripod screen that can be set up anywhere. All screens are retractable and store away in a steel case when not in use.
PROJECTOR LOCATION : Now that you have your image size and screen selected, it is time to determine the distance at which you will mount your projector from the screen. Keep in mind any obstacles that your space may have when you are shopping for a projector so that you are able to mount the projector in a reasonable location. Doing a little math in the beginning will save you a lot headache in the end.
All projectors will have a listed “throw ratio” which is the optimum distance to be placed from the screen. Multiply the “throw ratio” by the screen width to find the needed distance. For example, your projector’s “throw ratio” is 1.7 and your screen width is 5 feet. Multiplying 1.7 X 5 means that your projector would best be mounted 8.5 feet away from the screen.
PROJECTOR MOUNT : While we offer several mobile projector carts that are perfect for classrooms that share AV equipment or do not use the projector on a regular basis, it is a good idea to securely mount your projector if possible.
The Universal Mount by Bretford is all that you need for a professional installation with flexibility. There are mounts available for low ceilings, drop ceiling grids and cathedral or beam ceilings. After installing the appropriate mount to your ceiling, simply secure your projector to the universal bracket with four adjustable arms. The bracket then easily locks into place on the ceiling mount and can still be adjusted with a flexible ball and socket joint construction.
Projectors are a big investment, so finding the proper projection accessories such as screens and mounts is important. If you still have any questions or are looking for a projection screen not found on our website; please give us a call.
