Define LCD Projector

LCD Projectors use liquid crystals to distort light and create a wide range of colors, as well as clearer images. These projectors are popular for both businesses and individuals, and can be used for a number of functions.

Function

An LCD projector is a type of projector whose purpose is to show an image on a flat screen. LCD (liquid crystal display) projectors start by shining light through a prism that divides that light into three different panels. These panels are constructed out of poly silicone and divide the light into red, blue and green. Pixels within these panels can be opened and closed to create many different light combinations, which creates a variety of different colors. The lights used, Metal Halide lamps, use the right temperature for the projector to work, and can produce a range of colors.

History

Gene Dolgoff is credited with developing the LCD projector. His idea came in 1968 when he wanted to create a brighter video projector. The projectors of that day, the 3-CRT's, were not as bright as they could be. By 1971, he had decided on the use of liquid crystals to control the light. In 1984, he successfully built the world's first LCD projector. The first projectors worked with an overhead projector as well, and did not have a light source of their own.

Uses

LCD projectors are popular for use in classrooms and businesses because of the high-quality videos they produce. Many classrooms have a white projection screen to maximize the quality of the image. Businesses use them for PowerPoint presentations during business meetings as well as videos. LCD projectors are also popular in home entertainment systems. They project onto the screen, just like at the movie theater, and have a high quality that makes your own living room feel like you're at the movies.

Features

There are several features and options that come with LCD projectors. Each projector has a different resolution, which determines how good the quality of the picture is. The ANSI lumens rating defines how bright the projector is. Over 1000 provides the best quality. Projectors also have different picture contrast levels. Projectors that have a ratio of 400:1, or higher, will provide sharp contrast for a clear picture. Finally, lamp life is important. A projector with a lamp life of 2,000 hours or more is sufficient. Lamps can cost hundreds of dollars, so a long life is important.

Problems

While LCD projectors have taken video and image projection to a new level, they also have some common problems. An LCD projection TV still does not have the capability to match a LCD TV, which does not use the projection system. Projection will ultimately distort or discolor the picture, if only slightly. There is also the problem of projecting on anything that is not a white projector screen. While grey and black screens can enhance certain colors, other colors are distorted or do not show up as well.