Selecting the right projection screen

Although many people are not aware of this, the screen is an indispensable link in the presentation chain. After all, however good the projector itself may be, the image will have to be projected so that the audience can see and read it. With that in mind, the choice of projection screen is of the utmost importance.

Remember, the purpose of a projection screen is twofold: the reproduction of visual information without losing image quality and the distribution of the projected light towards the audience. Both aspects are necessary to get your message across.

The most important criteria for making your selection are given in the next 4 steps.

Step 1. Determin the projection screen type
Selection of a 'portable' or 'fixed' projection screen depends on the situation. A 'portable' projection screen is the best choice if you want to be able to project at various locations. If the projection location is permanent, you can choose either an 'electrical' or 'manual' projection screen depending on your personal preference and budget.

Step 2. Determine the format

Depending on the projection method, the projected image has a certain width/height ratio.

	standard format	2.5 cm border left/right (> 2.2 m width, border 5 cm)
	video format	5 cm borders all around
	HDTV format	5 cm borders all around

The contrast between the black border and the projected image increases the perceived clarity.

Step 3. Determine the screen fabric
The right projection screen fabric depends on the presentation room's layout and the position of the projector. In addition, the ambient light and light output also play an important role.

Step 4. Determine the right size
The size of the most suitable projection screen is determined by the following guidelines:

• Minimum viewing distance
For an optimum image, the viewing distance must be at least equal to 1.5 times the height of the projection screen.

• Maximum viewing distance
The distance from the back row of seats to the projection screen is maximum 6 times the height of the screen for video
projection and 4 times the height of the screen for data projection.

• Optimum viewing height
The viewing height depends on whether the seating arrangement in the room consists of either a single row or several rows. A minimum viewing height of 90 cm is required for a single row of seats and a minimum viewing height of 125 cm is required for several rows of seats.

• Room layout
Finally, the size of the most suitable projection screen must fit the available space.