May 30th, 2011
Ever wonder how the projector was created? This core piece of audiovisual technology has evolved dramatically through the years – let’s now take a look at its interesting historical beginnings.
The following is a timeline of the evolution of today’s projector.
First came the camera obscura, dating as far back as the late first century, and essentially consisting of a box with a tiny hole on one side and an angled mirror on the other. As light was shone from an external scene through the hole, the image was reverted and projected onto paper. This was originally used for tracing and drawing purposes, but the invention later led to the development of photography.
 Much later, in the mid-sixteenth century, came the “magic lantern,” an improvement over the camera obscura in that it could project images onto a screen. This invention was one of the predecessors to the invention of moving pictures.
Next came the opaque projector, the predecessor to today’s overhead projector. This device would shine a bright light onto an opaque image, after which a system of mirrors, prisms and lenses would focus the image onto a larger viewing screen.
If you were born prior to last decade and you think back to your early school days, you may recall a device known as an “overhead projector.” This device was first used for police identification work. As World War II drew to a close, the U.S. Army began to use overhead projectors for training, and the device was manufactured by 3M for later use in schools and companies during the 1950s and 60s. Overhead projectors project transparent and translucent images.
Improvements emerged when Buhl Industries (founded in 1953) created a number of optical refinements, and in 1957, the Federal Aid to Education program caused a growth in overhead sales, which continued through the late 1990s.
During the 1980s, LCD technology entered the education scene, further improving the audiovisual result of overhead projection. What began as a monochromatic, black-and-white imagery soon improved to color and improved focus, brightness and clarity.
Next, the slide projector followed, which became wildly popular during the 1950s through 1970s. With this device, photographic slides could be projected onto any wall or smooth surface.
The movie projector is based on the idea that the human brain holds an image for a fraction of a second before processing the next image. The original film projectors used single images printed onto film, but the film was projected at a speed such that it tricked the human eye into seeing motion, where in reality, only still frames existed.
Today, we rely on LCD and DLP technology as the gold standards for projectors. One can only wonder where the future will take us next.
May 6th, 2011
Here we are with another installment in our series called “Projectors: Your Technical Questions Answered.” In this segment, we answer the most basic of commonly asked questions: how exactly does a projector work? Remember, if you have a question about projectors, email us at Projector123.com or post a comment here on our blog and we’ll answer it for all to read.
Chances are, even if you haven’t personally used a projector you’ve seen one at work at some point. After all, you’ve been to the movies, haven’t you? While a film projector is different from an LCD projector, the basic concept is rather similar. Let’s explore exactly how these projection machines work.
 Essentially, there are two basic types of projectors: LCD and DLP. Let’s take a look at LCD technology first.
LCD stands for Liquid Crystal Display, and is probably the most common type of consumer grade projectors on the market today. If you rent a projector from a rental company, odds are it will be an LCD projector.
Essentially, in an LCD projector, a light is shined through a prism, which splits the light into the three basic colors of light, which then pass through various panels, followed by a lens. The panels are like small LCD screens, which receive encoded signals instructing them on how much of each light should be let through, and at what specific pixel coordinates. The lens focuses the image and projects it onto a surface, where it can then be viewed by the human eye.
Next, let’s explore a newer type of projector technology.
The other major type of projector is DLP, which stands for Digital Light Processing. Generally speaking, DLP projectors are considerably more expensive than LCD projectors, and are typically used in commercial operations, such as theaters, museums, universities, etc. DLP technology was created by Texas Instruments, and is a newer, more complex type of technology than LCD; however LCD technology is the standard among consumer users (and even in most corporate settings).
In a DLP projector, light is directed through a spinning color wheel, onto a mirrored chip. This tiny chip is covered without countless miniscule mirrors, which are turned on or off, depending on the signals sent for each corresponding image. This is all done instantaneously, via electrical impulses. Believe it or not, only one color is shown at a time! However, the process is conducted so rapidly in sequence that the human eye cannot detect the separation of colors. In other words, red can be immediately followed by blue so quickly, that all you see is purple! Despite the constant flickering, the final image appears to be constantly lit.
Generally speaking, LCD is the technology of choice for static images and those with a very high contrast, whereas DLP technology is preferred for video because of its inherently vivid colors.
If you need to rent a projector for an upcoming social gathering or business meeting, trust the professionals at Projector123.com. Our LCD rental projectors are versatile and reliable — click here now to reserve a rental projector today.
April 25th, 2011
So you’re thinking of renting a projector, right? But maybe you’re concerned that you’ll have to do some research or gain some technical knowledge before you do. Or maybe you’re worried that you won’t know how to set it all up when it arrives. Or perhaps you don’t want to spend the extra money on shipping, and you’re concerned that something might get broken when the device is in transit.
Well, put all those fears to rest because renting a projector could truly not be easier. The first step is to click here. That will take you directly to the Projector123.com website, where you can literally reserve a professional quality LCD rental projector within just a minute or two. Just click the “reserve yours today” button, complete the requested information (related to your billing, shipping, and payment info), and click “submit order.”
 Contrary to what you might think, you don’t need to know anything at all about the technical aspects of rental projectors. Our multi-use rental projectors are of the highest quality, and will work just as well in bright sunlight as in ambient lighting environments.
Plus, the shipping carton doubles as a carrying case, so you can rest assured that the rental projector is safe and sound while en route to you, on its way back to us, or in transit anywhere else you may choose to take it.
When your rental projector arrives, setup is as easy as 1-2-3. We include a quickstart reference card with every rental projector, and we also include the cables and extras you may need. Whether you plan to hook up your rental projector for family movie night, or connect it to your gaming device for a Wii tournament, or take it to the office and connect it to your laptop for a PowerPoint presentation, you will be completely delighted with a rental projector from Projector123.com.
When you are finished with the rental projector, just put it back in its carrying case, affix the prepaid FedEx shipping label, and either drop it into the nearest FedEx drop box or call FedEx for free pickup.
Yes, it really is all that simple! Click here now to rent a projector from Projector123.com today.
February 9th, 2011
If you’re evaluating projectors to see which is best, there are several factors to consider. This should provide you with enough information to make intelligent and informed choices during your search.
Reasons for Use
For starters, consider the purpose of your projector. What are the most common reason and locations where you will most often use a projector? It’s important to consider this first, before rushing into a projector purchase. It is true that projectors depreciate rapidly, mainly because technology is always changing and improving the available options. You’ll want to be clear on your reasons for using a projector in order to ensure that you purchase the model and features you truly need.
Types of Projectors
Essentially, there are three main types of projectors: CRT (Cathode Ray Tube), LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) and DLP (Digital Light Processing). CRT projectors can be compared to older tube-style televisions, where a system of three separate lenses is used to combine cyan, magenta and yellow light and project these mixed color images onto a nearby surface. CRT projectors can be found in movie theaters, museums, and other sophisticated commercial projection venues.
/>LCD projectors are the most common type of consumer-use projectors, as these are much more affordable (and less temperamental to maintain) than CRT projectors. An LCD projector shines blue, green, and red light through tiny LCD panels the size of a single pixel.
DLP projectors generally feature brighter, more defined display outputs than LCD, but are more costly. Many businesses and educational/training companies prefer DLP over LCD. With a DLP projector, white light is projected through an array of miniscule, movable mirrors that control the intensity of each pixel of light as well as the color.
Automated Features
A broad range of features are available in various projectors, and when considering which features you’ll want, consider your personal level of comfort and knowledge with technology and equipment. If you consider yourself to be “technologically challenged,” then you may prefer a unit with more automated features, to make it easier for you to use. Again, consider your purpose for using the projector – if you are likely to use it only occasionally, you don’t need all the bells and whistles that many higher-end projectors include.
Low-Lumen vs. High-Lumen
“Lumen” is a term that refers to the brightness level of a projector. Low-lumen projectors work best in atmospheres that feature low to moderate ambient lighting. Low-lumen projectors are not suitable for outdoor projection, or for bright lighting (such as a trade show floor). High-lumen projectors work best for large audiences, projection of highly detailed information, and brightly lit environments (including bright sunlight). Additionally, a few projector models can do it all – meaning the projected images are clear, bright and well displayed in most any environment. These are the most versatile of all projectors.
Of course, if you don’t want to bother with the hassle of owning, storing and maintaining your own rental projector, then why not rent instead? Projector123.com is your one-stop shop for rental projectors for any occasion. Our professional grade rental projectors are the ideal solution for convenience, affordability, and versatility of use. Click here now to learn more and to reserve your rental projector today.
January 31st, 2011
Welcome back to part two of our two-part segment on owning vs. renting an LCD projector. In this installment, we continue looking at pros and cons of each choice.
Maintenance
 If you’re considering purchasing an LCD projector, be sure to factor maintenance into your evaluation. Projectors can be delicate, finicky items, and it takes a very gentle hand to manage their ongoing maintenance. (Of course, this becomes a non-issue when you choose to rent a projector). Hiring a service for maintenance may be necessary to avoid voiding your manufacturer’s warranty, but be advised that this is an expensive added cost. Additionally, the projector lamp must be changed (frequency depends on how much you use it), and this one necessary bit of maintenance can literally cost you hundreds of dollars – even if you replace the bulb yourself.
Obsolescence
Another factors that bears consideration is obsolescence. With the rapid progression of technology, there is a very good chance that today’s top-of-the-line projector purchase could become yesterday’s junk in as little as a year or two. Again, if you don’t anticipate using an LCD projector frequently (at least half a dozen or more times per year), then it may make a lot more sense to rent as needed, as opposed to buying your own projector. When you choose a reputable rental projector company like Projector123.com, you can rest assured that you are always renting the latest, greatest, most reliable projection unit available – obsolescence is a non-issue when it comes to projector rentals.
Be sure to do your research first if you’ve decided to purchase an LCD projector. But when you’re ready to rent, trust Projector123.com for all your rental projector needs. Our units are quality tested, professional grade, and competitively priced. Click here to learn more about the rental projectors offered by Projector123.com.
January 28th, 2011
If you’re considering purchasing an LCD projector for home or business use, here are some finer points to consider. Today we look at the pros and cons of buying vs. renting DVD projectors.
Cost
Certainly, cost is a major consideration in determining whether to buy or rent a projector. But before you can begin comparing costs, you must consider what situations and environments in which you will most often use a projector. For example, bright sunlight settings and brightly lit showrooms require a higher lumen output than softer ambient light environments. Next, you must consider how often you are likely to use a projector over a year’s time. Technology changes rapidly, and if you are going to use a projector less than half a dozen times (minimum) in a year, then it makes sense to rent as opposed to buying a projector. An excellent all-purpose, high-quality, versatile-lumen projector will likely run you about $600 (retail purchase price). In comparison, weekend rentals (as well as two-day weekday rentals) from Projector123.com cost about $99 each.
Access
One of the best advantages of owning your own projector is the fact that you have total access. In other words, you can use the projector any time you like, without having to consider shipping time and per-use costs. If you love the draw of instant spontaneity, and you feel you would use a projector a lot more often if you had instant access to it, then purchasing a projector may be the best course of action for you. However, consider that you will need to store and maintain the projector whenever it isn’t in use.
/>Familiarity
Non-techies will see another advantage of owning their own projector, which is familiarity with the unit. Purchasing your own projector means you can read the manual from cover to cover, and you can learn the intricate details and features of your specific unit. Over time (especially for people who consider themselves to be technically challenged), this can create a speed and ease of use with your projector. In contrast, if you choose to rent a projector, you will need to read and follow the quickstart instructions for the specific unit you rent, which could change from rental to rental (and almost certainly from rental company to rental company).
We’ve got more points to cover in part two of this segment, so come back next time to learn more about whether it makes sense for you to rent or buy an LCD projector. If you’ve already decided to rent, call on us here at Projector123.com for all your rental projector needs. We feature only the latest in professional-grade rental projectors, and you’ll never have to worry about costly maintenance. Click here to find out more about the projectors for rent from Projector123.com.
January 24th, 2011
Today we continue our technical Q&A series on LCD projectors with a how-to article that covers replacing the lamp (bulb) in your projector.
 In most projectors, the lamp is designed to last a very long time (typically 1000-2000 hours of use), so it’s unlikely that you’d have to replace the bulb very often, but there are certainly some caveats to consider when the inevitable does occur. Older model projectors (prior to the year 2000) typically have a lamp life expectancy of around 1,000 hours, while newer projectors may feature lamps that are expected to last for 2,000 hours or more. Check the technical specs on your specific projector to find out your expected lamp life, and if you’re getting close to the max, secure an extra bulb so you won’t be caught unprepared. Some projectors feature an eco-mode, which sacrifices a small amount of brightness in exchange for a much longer bulb life.
Depending on what model projector you currently own, you can expect to pay between $200 and $600 for a replacement bulb (average cost is around $350). If you choose to have a professional replace the bulb, that service will likely run you another $100 or so. Be sure to check your warranty information on your specific projector unit – in some cases, changing the bulb yourself can void the manufacturer’s warranty entirely.
If you prefer to change the bulb yourself, here are some simple tips that explain how to do just that. Be sure to handle all parts of your projector (especially the bulb) with extreme care and a gentle touch.
Step 1: Remove the access panel located at the rear of your LCD projector. Typically a single screw holds the panel in place.
Step 2: Loosen or remove the screws located on either side of the base of the lamp. The bulb should remove easily with only gentle tugging (if not, loosen the screws some more and try again).
Step 3: IMPORTANT: Remove the bulb without touching it, as it may be hot and is extremely fragile. You may wish to use a soft cloth to protect the bulb (and your fingers) during removal.
Step 4: Replace the new bulb, ensuring the plug is securely in place. Using extreme care, screw in the screws you loosened in step 2.
Step 5: Close the access panel and replace the single screw that holds it in place. You cannot test the projector until this panel has been appropriately replaced.
Step 6: Turn on and test your LCD projector. If it doesn’t work, repeat steps 4-6.
NOTE: When replacing the new bulb, wiggle it ever so gently to get it into place – do not force the bulb, as this can cause it to break or can damage the delicate connections inside your unit.
Of course, if you’d rather not worry about blowing out one of these expensive lamps or damaging your LCD projector, why not rent instead? Rental projectors from Projector123.com are fast, convenient and affordable. Click here to learn more or reserve your rental projector today.
November 29th, 2010
Nearly all rental projectors are equipped with certain automatic features, which may include auto focus, auto setup, auto input signal search, automatic keystone correction, and more. But should you always use the automatic features, or does it ever make sense to correct and adjust your image manually? Find out in this post as we continue our series on projectors and technical Q & A.
Automatic Focus
In nearly any situation where you’re using a projector, you will tend to use the automatic focus feature. In older devices, you may need to focus the first image manually, then the automatic focus can take over from there. In newer devices, the auto focus feature appears to work like magic, honing in on the clearest, crispest image with the touch of a button. Additionally, some projectors also feature remote focus, which allows you to use the remote control to auto focus your presentation. Once you’ve activated the auto focus feature, you will likely not need to use it again during your presentation, unless the projector is moved or repositioned.
 Auto Setup
An auto setup feature allows for easy, one-button adjustment of input and picture display, which is ideal for non-techie or occasional projector users. The auto setup feature also allows a projector to be used efficiently in multiple locations, and easily moved or repositioned. This is truly a “plug and play” feature that is appreciated by many. There is no need to perform this function manually if your rental projector is equipped with an auto setup feature.
Auto Input Signal Search
Put simply, this is an automatic feature that allows your rental projector to determine what form of input (laptop, DVD, etc.) you are using for your presentation. This feature makes setup quick and simple. If your rental projector does not have this feature, you may need to select the input manually.
Automatic Keystone Correction
This is an excellent feature, although not essential. The automatic keystone correction will ensure that your image is squared to the projection screen or surface. If your rental projector does not include this feature, then you would simply reposition the projector, the table or flat surface on which it rests, or the screen itself to remove any keystoning (a distortion of the image that appears as a trapezoid or parallelogram instead of a rectangle of square).
How can you tell which features your rental projector includes? Ask to see the specs before you rent, or look at the materials included with the rental equipment itself. Most rental projectors include a setup guide that lists the features of that specific unit.
All rental projectors from Projector123.com include automatic focus, which you will nearly always want to use. To rent your projector today, just click here to get started.
October 6th, 2010
The term “LCD” is one that most of us seem to take for granted. But what does LCD mean and why do all rental projectors from Projector123.com feature LCD technology? We continue our series on “Projectors: Your Technical Questions Answered” with this informative piece.
/>LCD stands for “liquid crystal display.” Essentially, this term is used to refer to a device that contains two transparent polarized panels, with a liquid crystal solution between them. Electricity causes light to shine through the panels from behind, and an image appears.
More specifically, polarized panels will only pass light waves in one plane, and the panels are positioned at a 90 degree angle to each other, which means light from one plane cannot pass through the other panel because of its angle. But when electricity passes through the liquid crystals, segments are switched on or off, to produce a specific image. The crystals are actually lined up in a particular way that allows the light to twist through both panels, in order to be visible on the other side.
When it comes to projectors, LCD projectors typically send light through a prism from a metal halide lamp that separates the light into colors (red, green and blue). In other words, the video signal is essentially split by color, and the prism sorts the colors and projects the specified images. How are the colors sorted? Put simply, three poly silicone panels are present (one for each color) and as the polarized light passes through the panels, individual pixels can be allowed to open up and allow light through, or close up to block the light. Combinations of open/closed pixels produce a virtually limitless range of colors and shades in the viewable image.
Of course, all this happens in such rapid succession that you never notice the delay – the images, projected so quickly, seem to “move” on the screen.
There are projectors that use other forms of technology (non-LCD) but LCD projectors are the most popular because they are lightweight and extremely portable. Typically, metal halide lamps are used for their ideal color temperature and ability to display a broad spectrum of colors. Additionally, metal halide lamps can produce a vast amount of light in a relatively small area, which makes it ideal for high-lumen outputs.
You don’t need to understand the intricacies of LCD technology to know that Projector123.com is the premier source for LCD rental projectors. Getting started is as easy as 1-2-3 – click here now to rent a projector from Projector123.com today.
September 27th, 2010
Here’s a great article we came across recently that explains in simple terms how to use an LCD projector. Remember – when you rent a projector from Projector123.com, you’ll receive a quick start setup guide, and you’ll be set up in a jiffy. Plus, our technical expert staff is always available to you 24/7 by phone throughout your entire rental period.
We found this article at ehow.com. Click to access the original article. Enjoy!
How to Use an LCD Projector
By an eHow Contributor
LCD projectors have revolutionized the audiovisual industry. With a few clicks of the mouse and strokes of the keyboard, whatever you type on your computer appears instantly on a projection screen in real time. If you have never experimented with an LCD projector, however, do not worry. You can learn how to use an LCD projector.
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions
1. Plug the LCD projector in to a power outlet. Completely plug the power cord in to the back of the LCD projector.
2. Use a VGA cable (usually a 15-pin male to male) to connect your computer to the LCD projector. Insert one end of the cable into the VGA connector (sometimes this connector is blue) in the back of your computer and do the same in the back of your LCD projector. If the LCD projector has more than one VGA connector, choose the one that says something like “line in” or “in from computer.”
3. Power on your laptop. Turn on the LCD projector. It may take a couple of minutes to warm up. Open the computer file or document you wish to display. When you are ready to project your image, press “Function” (Fn) plus “F8.” This combination of keys sends your computer’s display to the LCD projector.
4. Use sound to enhance your presentation. Often LCD projectors have built-in speakers. If this is the case, you may need to run an RGB cable from the LCD projector to the back of your computer. If you wish to use external speakers instead of those that are part of the LCD projector (the built-in speakers are generally of poor quality), plug the speakers directly into the headphone jack of your laptop.
5. Turn off your LCD projector properly. Usually you must press the “off” button once, and a dialog box pops up asking if you are sure you want to turn it off. Press the “off” button again, and the machine powers down. Leave the machine plugged in until the cooling fan stops. Be careful when disconnecting VGA cables from the back of the LCD projector and laptop, as the pins at the end of the cable are delicate.
6. Know some other features of your LCD projector. Most have a focus knob to make the picture clearer. If your image appears distorted (wider on one side than the other or small at the top, big at the bottom) you must adjust the keystone setting, which helps to project a rectangular image. You can fix keystone distortion manually by moving the LCD projector to position it near the center of the screen at which it is aiming.
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Click here to rent an LCD projector now from Projector123.com.
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