All You Need to Know About Optional Projector Lenses

One of the most common questions asked by our customers when looking to purchase a new projector is, “How big of an image will it give me?” Or a similar question, “How far do I need to mount this projector to fill my screen size?” The answer depends on the throw ratio of the lens on the projector.

There are, of course, other things to worry about such as whether or not the projector has a high enough lumen output (brightness) or high enough resolution to give you a quality looking image at a certain size. It’s best to have this discussion with one of our experts before ordering. If all you need to know is how big the image will be or how far to mount it from your screen, then all you need to know is the throw ratio.

What is Throw Ratio?

The throw ratio is the relationship between your projectors distance from your screen and the width of the image. Here’s the full equation:

Distance (D) = Width (W) x Throw ratio
or
Width (W) = Distance (D) / Throw Ratio

For example, if the projector’s throw ratio is 2:1, and you have the projector mounted at 20′ from the screen, it will project a 10′ wide image. (20′ / 2 = 10′)

Most projector lenses have a zoom, so the throw ratio will be listed in a range, such as 1.5 – 2.0 : 1. This means you can change the size of the image by adjusting the lens on the projector instead of physically moving the projector to adjust the image size. For that same example, if you have the projector mounted at 20′, the projector will give you an image size anywhere in between 13.3′ to 10′ wide. It’s important to keep in mind that the throw ratio will always tell you the width of the image. Since screen sizes are often times listed by the diagonal size, it’s a common mistake to assume that your “100 inch” screen is 100″ wide when it’s actually 100″ diagonal and therefore only 80″ wide.

Do I need an optional projector lens?

For the average projector user, the standard lens on a projector will work just fine. For many churches, auditoriums, conference rooms, and large banquet halls, however, an optional long throw lens or short throw lens may be necessary. The only way to know for sure, is to take an accurate measurement of the distance from the screen to where you’ll mount the projector, and then divide that number by the width of the screen size you need. Since the highest or “longest” throw ratio you’ll find on a standard lens is 3:1, and even that is uncommon, you’ll know you need to look at a long throw lens and projector combo if you come up with a number any higher than 3.

Here are a few of the most common and best selling installation projectors. These projectors are sold without a standard lens to minimize the cost and they all work with optional lenses that have a throw ratio as long as 7:1 or longer:

Eiki Installation Projectors:
Eiki LC-XT5 LCD Projector – No Lens – $16,295.00
Eiki LC-XT9 LCD Projector – No Lens – $11,799.00
Eiki LC-X800 LCD Projector – $13,499.00
Eiki LC-X8 LCD Projector – No Lens – $11,499.00
Eiki EIP-WX5000L LCD Projector – No Lens – $8,995.00
Eiki LC-W5 LCD Projector – No Lens – $9,499.00
Eiki LC-X85 LCD Projector – No Lens – $5,895.00
Eiki LC-X80 LCD Projector – No Lens – $4,795.00
Eiki LC-XGC500L LCD Projector – No Lens – $3,995.00
Eiki LC-SXG400L LCD Projector – No Lens – $3,895.00
Eiki LC-XG400L LCD Projector – No Lens – $3,295.00
Eiki LC-XG250L LCD Projector – No Lens – $2,195.00
Eiki EIP-5000L DLP Projector – No Lens – $3,995.00
Eiki EIP-SXG20 DLP Projector – No Lens – $9,995.00

All Eiki Optional Projector Lenses

Panasonic Installation Projectors
Panasonic PT-D6000ULS DLP Projector – No Lens – $5,199.00
Panasonic PT-DW6300ULS DLP Projector – Silver Cabinet – No Lens – $5,299.00
Panasonic PT-DZ6700UL DLP Projector – No Lens – $9,799.00
Panasonic PT-DZ6710UL DLP Projector – No Lens – $12,799.00
Panasonic PT-D7700U-K DLP Projector – $22,999.00
Panasonic PT-D10000U DLP Projector – No Lens – $29,999.00
Panasonic PT-DW10000U DLP Projector – $39,000.00

Panasonic Optional Lenses for PT-D7700/W7000, D/DW10000, DW100U, D/DZ12000 Projectors
Panasonic Lenses for PT-D6000 Series, PT-D5700, PT-DW5100, and PT-D4000

Sanyo Installation Projectors
Sanyo PDG-DET100L DLP Projector – No Lens – $11,995.00
Sanyo PDG-DHT100L DLP 1080p Projector – $21,995.00
Sanyo PDG-DXT10L DLP Projector – $3,595.00
Sanyo PLC-XT35L LCD Projector – $3,795.00
Sanyo PLC-UF15 LCD Projector – No Lens – $49,995.00
Sanyo PLC-WTC500L LCD Projector – NO LENS – $5,495.00
Sanyo PLC-XF70 LCD Projector – $9,945.00
Sanyo PLC-XP100L LCD Projector – $5,995.00
Sanyo PLV-80L LCD Projector – $5,595.00

Sanyo Optional Projector Lenses

As you can see, these options can get expensive once you add the cost of the lens and the projector together. As of this writing, there are no other more economical options. If you have budget constraints, you may need to consider finding a closer mounting position or simply going with a bigger image size.

What are my options for short throw projection?

If you need to do large image from very short distance, an optional short throw projector lens will work. All of the projectors listed above are also compatible with short throw lenses. You will find these short throw lenses in the links provided.

Fortunately, you also have other less expensive options. Since projector manufacturers have recently caught on to the fact that there is a market for an affordable short throw projector, we’ve seen quite a few short throw or “ultra short throw” projectors come on to the market. These projectors have a pre-installed short throw lens, making them great for installs with very limited place such as rear projection. They’re also much more affordable than an installation projector and short throw lens combo.

Here are some of our most popular short throw projectors. Some of these models use a built in mirror system that allows for some of the shortest throw possible. Just keep in mind that these projectors have a maximum size limitation, so you may still need to consider an installation projector and short throw lens combo if you need a very large size or if you are projecting in a very high ambient light environment.

Eiki Short Throw Projectors
Eiki LC-XIP2000 LCD Projector – $1,595.00

Hitachi Short Throw Projectors
Hitachi CP-A52 LCD Projector – Ultra Short Throw – $1,199.00
Hitachi CP-A100 LCD Projector – Ultra Short Throw – $1,595.00
Hitachi ED-A100 LCD Projector – Ultra Short Throw – $1,199.00
Hitachi CP-D10 LCD Projector – $869.00
Hitachi CP-DW10N LCD Projector – $949.00

NEC Short Throw Projectors
NEC NP500WS LCD Projector – $949.00
NEC NP600S LCD Projector – $999.00
NEC NP610S LCD Projector – $999.00

Optoma Short Throw Projectors
Optoma EX525ST DLP Short Throw Projector – $969.00

Sanyo Short Throw Projectors
Sanyo PDG-DXL100 DLP Projector – $945.00
Sanyo PDG-DWL100 DLP Projector – $1,045.00
Sanyo PLC-WXE45 LCD Projector – Ultra Short Throw – $1,195.00
Sanyo PLC-XL51 LCD Projector – Ultra Short Throw Projector – $2,695.00

We also have some discounted open box short throw projectors for sale! Limited quantities available!
Sanyo PDG-DWL100 DLP Projector – Open Box – $949.00
Sanyo PLC-WXE45 LCD Projector – Ultra Short Throw – Open Box – $1,095.00

All open box projectors are inspected by our projector experts to be working condition.

As always, if you have any questions or need assistance with anything, please do not hesitate to call and speak with one of our projector experts. Call toll free 1-888-686-0551.

Nuvu Screens Now Available at Focused Technology

Nuvu, the screen with a “twist”, is now available from Focused Technology. This unique screen is the lightest and most compact projection screen on the market. The rim tensioning system can be twisted in to a small circle for travel and then quickly untwisted for use in a seconds!

How it Works – Preparing the screen for use couldn’t be easier. Simply remove the screen from the included carry case and allow it to slowly ‘pop’ open. The screen is now ready for use and can be attached using the magnets to the adjustable ceiling mount system. (All mounting accessories are sold separately.)

Notice how happy she looked setting that up? You’d be smiling too if you were used to setting up a traditional, clumsy tripod screen. This is a great option for business travelers, campers, or home owners that are looking for an easy multi-room projection screen option.

The Nuvu Foldable Portable Projection Screen comes in a variety of sizes:

4:3 Format:
SC-9971 – 51″ x 67″ (HxW) – $179.00

16:9 Format:
SC-9955 – 27″ x 47″ (HxW) – $139.00
SC-9966 – 32″ x 57″ (HxW) – $179.00
SC-9977 – 38″ x 66″ (HxW) – $219.00
SC-9988 – 43″ x 76″ (HxW) – $259.00

Click here for more information and to place an order for the Nuvu Foldable Portable Projection Screen

All Current Projector Mail-In Rebates, Specials and Promotions From Focused Technology

Here is a comprehensive list of the current manufacturer mail-in rebates and promotions available from Focused Technology.

BenQ Projectors:

• BenQ SP830 DLP Projector – Projector ships with an Encore Portable Cyber 80″ Projection Screen – FREE! No claim forms! – This a Focused Technology Exclusive Offer! – While Supplies Last.
• BenQ SP831 DLP Projector – Projector ships with an Encore Portable Cyber 80″ Projection Screen – FREE! No claim forms! – This a Focused Technology Exclusive Offer! – While Supplies Last.
• BenQ SP870 DLP Projector – Projector ships with an Encore Portable Cyber 80″ Projection Screen – FREE! No claim forms! – This a Focused Technology Exclusive Offer! – While Supplies Last.

Canon Projectors:

• Canon SX80 LCOS Projector – Free Replacement Lamp MIR From Canon! – Expires 12/31/2009
• Canon SX800 LCOS Projector – Free Replacement Lamp MIR From Canon! – Expires 12/31/2009
• Canon WUX10 LCOS Projector – Free Replacement Lamp MIR From Canon! – Expires 12/31/2009

Eiki Projectors

• Eiki LC-XT5 LCD Projector – No Lens – Purchase a brand new Eiki LC-XB200 Portable LCD Projector for only $199 (normally $995) when you purchase a new Eiki LC-XT5 LCD Projector! Both projectors must be purchased at the same time to claim this offer. Please call to place your order. Offer expires 12/23/2009.
• Eiki LC-X8 LCD Projector – No Lens – Purchase a brand new Eiki LC-XB100 Portable LCD Projector for only $199 when you purchase a new Eiki LC-X8 LCD Projector! Both projectors must be purchased at the same time to claim this offer. Please call to place your order. Offer expires 12/23/2009.
• Eiki EIP-HDT20 DLP Projector – No Lens – Purchase a brand new Eiki LC-WB100 Portable LCD Projector for only $199 when you purchase a new Eiki EIP-HDT20 LCD Projector! Both projectors must be purchased at the same time to claim this offer. Please call to place your order. Offer expires 12/23/2009.
• Eiki LC-X85 LCD Projector – No Lens – Purchase a brand new Eiki LC-XBL25 Portable LCD Projector for only $199 when you purchase a new Eiki LC-X85 LCD Projector! Both projectors must be purchased at the same time to claim this offer. Please call to place your order. Offer expires 12/23/2009.
• Eiki LC-X80 LCD Projector – No Lens – Purchase a brand new Eiki LC-XBL25 Portable LCD Projector for only $199 when you purchase a new Eiki LC-X80 LCD Projector! Both projectors must be purchased at the same time to claim this offer. Please call to place your order. Offer expires 12/23/2009.

InFocus Projectors

• InFocus IN1100 DLP Projector – $50 MIR From InFocus! Expires 12/31/2009
  Also Available – Purchase the InFocus Wireless DisplayLink – SP-DOUSB-WIRELESS with your IN1100 Projector and receive a $100 MIR From InFocus! Expires 12/31/2009.

• Infocus IN1102 DLP Projector – $50 MIR From InFocus! Expires 12/31/2009
  Also Available – Purchase the InFocus Wireless DisplayLink – SP-DOUSB-WIRELESS with your IN1102 Projector and receive a $100 MIR From InFocus! Expires 12/31/2009.

• InFocus IN1501 DLP Projector – $100 MIR From InFocus! Expires 12/31/2009
• InFocus IN1503 DLP Projector – $100 MIR From InFocus! Expires 12/31/2009
• InFocus IN35W DLP Projector – $75 MIR From InFocus! Expires 12/31/2009

NEC Projectors

• NEC NP41 DLP Projector – $300 MIR From NEC! Expires 12/31/2009
• NEC NP62 DLP Projector – $300 MIR From NEC! Expires 12/31/2009
• NEC NP500WS LCD Projector – $100 MIR From NEC! Expires 12/31/2009
• NEC NP600 LCD Projector – $200 MIR From NEC! Expires 12/31/2009
• NEC NP600S LCD Projector – $100 MIR From NEC! Expires 12/31/2009
• NEC NP3151W LCD Projector – $500 MIR From NEC! Expires 12/31/2009
• NEC NP4001 DLP Projector – No Lens – $500 MIR From NEC! Expires 12/31/2009
• NEC NP905 LCD Projector – $300 MIR From NEC! Expires 12/31/2009

  Click here to view more details on all of our projector specials, promotions and mail-in rebates.

  

A Word for the Wide(screen).

Wide screen projectors and screens are nothing new to the home theater, but they’re becoming more and more common in the boardroom, classroom, and churches now too. Since the widescreen projector market is now more competitive than ever, the technology is now more affordable too.

• More “landscape” for your content: One of the main benefits of widescreen TV’s is the ability to view movies in a format closer to the original film. When a film is converted to fullscreen to fit your TV, the content on the outer edges is trimmed off. The same is true with data from your computer. If you display song lyrics in your church, you can display full verses on one line instead of two. If you project spreadsheets in your boardroom or classroom, you can display the full document without the need to scroll from side to side. In short, a widescreen format gives you greater flexibility in your presentation.

• Compatibility with widescreen laptops and widescreen monitor resolutions. – Widescreen laptops and widescreen computer monitors are everywhere now. Many people are using and benefiting from widescreen formats without even realizing it! You’re creating your content on a widescreen monitor and then, once you project the same content that looked so nice and fit so well on your computer screen, it suddenly doesn’t completely fit in to the fullscreen resolution of your projector. With a widescreen format projector, your content will be displayed the same way as it is on your computer screen.
• Overcome physical size limitations: A widescreen projector, obviously, will give you a wider image than a full screen projector that is the same height. This is important if you have a limited amount of height to work with. For example, say you only have 5 feet (60 inches) of height to work with on your wall. A 4:3 projector will give you an 80″ wide image, where a 16:10 widescreen projector would give you a 96″ wide image and a 16:9 projector would give you a 107″ wide image at 60″ high.

The best choice is to match the native format of the resolution you use on your laptop or PC. In general, 16:10 is the preferred format to go with in a business application since most widescreen computer resolutions are 16:10 and 16:9 is much more commonly used in home theaters. One exception would be in the example above where you need to try to get the widest image possible with a limited amount of height to work with.

Looking for some great deals on a widescreen projector? Here are some of our top selling widescreen models:

Dell 1609WX DLP Projector - Current Price: $839.00 – 1280 x 800 WXGA Resolution (16:10) – 2500 ANSI Lumens – 1 Year Warranty

Hitachi CP-WX410 LCD Projector – Current Price: $949.00 – 1280 x 800 WXGA Resolution (16:10) – 3000 ANSI Lumens – 3 Year Warranty

NEC NP410W LCD Projector – Current Price: $899.00 – 1280 x 800 WXGA Resolution (16:10) – 3500 ANSI Lumens – 2 Year Warranty

InFocus IN1102 DLP Projector – Current Price: $1,095.00 – 1280 x 800 WXGA Resolution (16:10) – 2200 ANSI Lumens – 2 Year Warranty – 2.75 lbs.