Basic Projector help please.

[admin_exported]

Hi

I am after a HDMI ceiling mounted projector. I almost bought one that apparently is very poor and a member of here highlighted that to me.

So I need some help with this please.

1: What the difference between LCD and DLP projectors?

2: I want it purely to watch DVDs either SD or HD but it will be used for PS3 and PC gaming.

3: I have to connect the projector to my DVD or for the time being the PS3 so how am I spose to run a HDMI cable along the ceiling for about 15foot?

4: Resolution / Contrast - I presume the higher the value the better?

5: Is there any that anyone recommend?

Any help would be appreciated.

Simon.

 

[professorhat]

[quote user="simonjanda"]1: What the difference between LCD and DLP projectors?[/quote]

Reasonable explanation here though put "LCD DLP projectors" into Google and you'll get plenty of articles. Both have their pluses and minuses, DLP is generally thought of to provide a better picture, though LCD is closing this gap, especially demonstrable with some of the new Panasonics.

[quote user="simonjanda"]2: I want it purely to watch DVDs either SD or HD but it will be used for PS3 and PC gaming.[/quote]

Ok.

[quote user="simonjanda"]3: I have to connect the projectorÿ to my DVD or for the time being the PS3 so how am I spose to run a HDMI cable along the ceiling for about 15foot?[/quote]

If you're going to install it yourself, then yes, you will have to find a neat way to do this. If you get in a proper AV installer, then they'll be able to do this for you after some discussion about how you would like it done and give you a quote for the work. With longer HDMI cables, you really are advised to get a decent one (despite what some people say about HDMI cables) due to the risk of signal degradation along this length. A reasonably priced one is the QED Qunex HDMI-P cable - 5m available for £67.50. However, you can get even better ones, but the cost goes up. If you can, get some demo cables from a dealer and then you can take any back if you decide the more expensive ones don't give any better picture.

[quote user="simonjanda"]4: Resolution / Contrastÿ - I presume the higher the value the better?[/quote]

In theory yes, but don't get hung up on the figures. Take a look at some reviews, then go and audition some projectors and go with the one you feel is better. I would think you are probably wise to go for a Full HD projector though if you're looking at Blu-Ray / PS3 / PC gaming. However, if SD TV broadcasts and DVD playback is more important, an HD Ready one might be better. Hence the need to audition.

[quote user="simonjanda"]5: Is there any that anyone recommend?[/quote]

As always, this depends on how much you have to spend!