What is better: to project an image on a sheet that was hung like in childhood? Or prepare for this purpose a flat white wall? No, modern technologies offer a completely different solution: screens for the projector, which have many useful functions. Their choice is huge, so we offer you detailed instructions on how to choose a screen for the projector.

We will build on the four most important positions: design, size, shape and material. We will try to choose the device that will best suit your needs, and at the same time, of course, will provide excellent image quality.

Type of construction

All screen models for the projector, both the most expensive and the simplest, are divided into only two groups: stationary and folding. As the name implies, stationary are constantly on the wall, do not fold, do not fold and are always ready to work. Usually they are equipped with a rigid frame that keeps the structure intact. Such devices are suitable for offices, conference rooms, home theaters. If you live in a regular apartment and the place for stationary equipment was not provided for, the folding model is more suitable for you. Such devices can be folded or, most often, rolled up in a roll for storage in a closet or other suitable place. But do not think that the folding type devices are the simplest and cheapest. Of course, there are inexpensive models that unfold to the required length manually. But there are also robotic automatic screens, which collapse and unfold independently, at the touch of a button or even in accordance with the program.

Therefore, the first criterion on which you should rely when choosing how to place the screen is the space available to you. Qualitative devices with multiple functions can be found in either of these two categories. However, oddly enough, stationary models are somewhat cheaper with other things being equal. This is achieved due to the absence of a folding mechanism, the installation of which requires additional costs.

It should be mentioned that stationary models have one more indisputable advantage: it is a uniform, perfectly stretched, without a single wrinkle surface, which ensures maximum smoothness of the image. No matter how good the folding screen is, with constant folding and unfolding, slight bruising, small folds and bends of the surface are inevitable. A stationary screen is always at the ready, smooth, smooth and ready to show a great image.

But let us consider folding devices in more detail, because, for obvious reasons, to save space, most often they choose them for purchase. By way of twisting and other installation options, they are divided into the following subtypes.

• Twisting by hand.

Not the most convenient option, given that to unfold the screen you usually have to stand on a chair or use some long object with a suitable hook at the end. In addition, in the process, the material is usually crumpled, spun unevenly, there are bends on the sides. In short, the only advantage of this type of device is its undeniable cheapness.

• Built-in switch

Somewhat more advanced, but still not the most convenient type of device. The screen automatically rotates, but for this you need to press the switch that is on the frame or mounted on the wall. Manage the state of the device, not getting up from his seat, again, will not work.

• Remote control

And, finally, the most convenient and improved type of device control: a remote control, similar to the TV control panel, will allow you to minimize and unfold the screen without leaving the chair.

• Screens on tripod

There are also devices that are installed on a special folding tripod. The whole structure is easily disassembled, folds compactly and can also be stored in a convenient place for storage. There are models with a special drape fabric at the bottom of the screen to mask the tripod and create a more presentable appearance. Such devices are convenient because they are easily transferred from place to place, you can easily take them with you, for example, to retreats. You can fully assemble this screen from a disassembled state in 2-3 minutes.

• Floor models

The similarity of the device on a tripod, only installed on a special support directly to the floor.

• Desktop models

Similar to the previous item, only smaller in size. Convenient for classes, classrooms and other classrooms, where the teacher can simply deploy such a screen on his desk, without wasting time on long preparations.

Mounting method

Choosing a screen for a projector means there is room for mounting. Most likely, you already have an idea about where he will be, and where exactly you can sip soft drinks and watch movies or football games with friends. If you need a screen for the office, a place with an even higher probability is already determined. So, you need to choose a device with the appropriate type of attachment.

Usually the mechanism is mounted on the wall or on the ceiling. Many models have two mounting options, and you can change the location if necessary.

Choose size

For sure, your first desire will be to acquire a screen so large that it provides the effect of the presence of all your favorite actors in the room while watching a movie. But there are a number of factors that limit the allowable screen size, and the first one is the characteristics of your projector. Of course, it is necessary to take into account its ability to transfer a sufficiently large image.

The second factor is the distance from which you will look at the picture. If this distance is not too large and is only 2 or 3 meters, the big screen will not give you the desired effect. On the big screen, the picture will be blurred, and you will achieve the opposite result - viewing will not be fun. And finally, the third factor - the place where you are going to install the screen. There should be enough space so that the viewing area does not overlap with other objects. That is why the correctly selected screen should fit organically into the space of the room.

The average screen size, which is usually sufficient for all possible needs, is 100-120 inches diagonally (approximately 250-300 cm). This is a large enough size for an impressive picture, and at the same time it can fit in almost any room. Of course, if you buy a screen in the office, and you need to install it in a huge hall in dozens of places, you need to look for a bigger device. But for personal needs, the size mentioned is quite enough. It is also supported by most projectors.

Screen shape

Many initially surprised by this item when choosing a suitable device. But, of course, it is not a circle or a triangle that is meant, but the aspect ratio of a rectangle familiar to our eye. The fact is that this ratio at the screens is very different. The most common parameters are: 1.77: 1, 1.85: 1, 2.35: 1, 2.40: 1, 4: 3. Square screens (1: 1) are also quite common.

We do not recommend purchasing a square screen for watching movies, since in this case the image will be located in the center without filling the entire useful space of the screen, and there will be white stripes at the top and bottom. The most appropriate ratio for watching movies and videos is considered to be 2.40: 1 size - in this case the screen will be filled to the maximum.

Choosing a material

So, we begin to select the material from which your screen will be made. The first thing you want to pay attention to is the color of the material. Usually the screens for projectors are white, but this is an optional parameter. They are also gray, silver and even black.

You might be surprised: does the black canvas perform its function? The fact is that such screens are used in rooms where it is impossible to create sufficient shading. In this case, on a white canvas, the picture is blurred and dark colors disappear. But silver and black devices do not have this problem, providing a good color rendition even in bright ambient light. This is an innovative development, called “black diamond”. With such surfaces, you can achieve impressive image clarity even in a brightly lit room and in daylight.

So, if we decided on the color, we can proceed to the choice of fabric. The materials from which the canvas is made, differ in the level of reflection of light and angle of view. It is desirable to find a balance between these two factors, because otherwise, if there is a light source in direct line of sight from the screen, the image will be blurred or viewers sitting slightly to the side will not be able to fully get an idea of ​​what is happening on the screen.

There is also such a factor as screen perforation. This means that the material will have the smallest holes that let the sound through. Such devices are made specifically so that audio speakers can be installed behind them. This option is called “acoustic transparency” and is most often used in home theaters with fixed screens. Depending on your needs, you can decide whether you need this opportunity.

If in doubt, it is best to give preference to a matte white screen without additional functions. This is a universal option that will provide an adequate level of comfort when watching a video.

Screens for the street

In principle, most screens can be used outdoors, provided that there is no precipitation. But the slightest rain will make you quickly bring all the equipment into the room. If you want to arrange viewing of video on the street, you can get the inflatable screen for a projector. These are usually inexpensive models and take up a minimum of space when folded. In addition, they can withstand light rain (but check this point for a specific model when purchasing). Such screens are pumped using a conventional foot pump, which in most cases is sold in a set with them.

Additional devices

Separate accessories for screens, which can be purchased if desired, make it possible to better protect the surface, improve the aesthetic appearance, conceal excess light, and simplify transportation.

With almost any device several types of fasteners are sold, which allow fixing it both on the wall and on the ceiling. Also with automatic screens are sold remote control devices and switches. More complex models can be equipped with additional devices. Sometimes laser pointers are attached to them for the convenience of lectures using such a screen.

Most of these devices can be purchased separately. Also sold separately special draperies, allowing you to seamlessly enter the device in any interior. In addition, you can buy various bags and covers for easy transportation.

Conclusion

A projection screen can be used on a variety of events. You should not think that after one important conference it will have to be put into the closet for a long time. We list only a few ways to useful use of this device.

• The screen can be used for educational purposes, including for the education of children of any age.
• Great for meetings, meetings: on the screen you can project an image from a computer or laptop and more clearly familiarize employees with the intricacies of the workflow.
• Indispensable when conducting presentations.
• It has a huge number of options for entertainment purposes: it is watching movies, and games, and joint leisure.

In general, at a relatively low cost, this device provides more video viewing experience than a good widescreen TV. We wish you to make the right choice!