Finding the Right LCD Projector Lamp

LCD Projector Lamp

By Anne Ahira

Purchasing an LCD projector is a fairly substantial investment, so before you buy anything or even shop around there are several things you should know. In this article we are going to be discussing one aspect of the selection process, the LCD projector lamp.

Why is the LCD projector lamp important? In a word: brightness.  If you have ever been to the movies (and who hasn’t?), then you know that they always turn the lights out when they show the film. Why do you suppose they do that? No, it isn’t so that young lovers can canoodle under the cover of darkness. Really, it has everything to do with the power of the projector, specifically the bulb. The simple truth is that traditional projectors are weak, downright pallid when compared to contemporary models that rely on high-powered projector lamps.

And when it comes to making presentations in a small, enclosed area like a classroom or a boardroom, you want a projector that has a bit more power because your viewers aren’t going to be seated twenty to one hundred feet away. Therefore, it is imperative that you select a device that includes a powerful LCD projector lamp.

How does it work? When it comes to projector brightness, what you need to look for is the LCD projector lamp output.  Specifically, this is known as the ANSI lumens rating:  the higher the number the brighter the display.

As a general rule of thumb, you should look for a lumens rating of well over 1000. LCD projector lamps with a rating of under 1000 will likely not meet your needs, especially if you will be using them for business or classroom activities. That is why you should only consider an LCD projector lamp that has between 1000 and 2000 lumens.  However, if you need a truly powerful projector for large classrooms or conference rooms, then you should look at projectors that have between 2000 and 3000 lumens. This will give you enough power to view presentations even when the lights are on.

Another important consideration is the projector contrast, which does depend, in part, upon the power of the LCD projector lamp. The contrast is typically expressed as a simple ratio that compares the brightest and darkest areas of the picture display. For example, a contrast ratio of 400:1 is considered quite common.  However, if you will be using the projector in smaller classrooms or conference rooms where people will be seated closer to the screen, you should locate a model that has a contrast ratio that is higher than 400:1 so that the images will appear crisp and clear to all viewers.  A high contrast ratio is also extremely important if you plan on using the projector when the lights are on.

Lastly, you should consider the lamp life of the bulb that is included with the unit. This is a common mistake by first time buyers, as they tend to select cheaper models without regard to lamp life. What should you be looking for? A LCD projector lamp with over 2000 hours of life is ideal.  It is also possible to find projectors that have special options, like eco-mode, that will save battery life and reduce operating expenses.

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Here's LCD Projector Lamp Selections:

Sony XL-2200 - LCD projector lamp...	Customer Review: The picture on my Sony projection tv dimmed to where you could not see it. The choice to pay a considerable sum to have it fixed or try and replace the bulb myself. Looked up the bulb on the internet and purchased one in the housing through Amazon ... Read More	$259.98 (12)
ViewSonic PJL7211 XGA LCD Projector with 2200 lume...	Customer Review: Click Here for More Info
Sony - LCD projector lamp...	Customer Review: Click Here for More Info
Your Very Own LCD Projector Lamps Online Business-...	Customer Review: Click Here for More Info
Panasonic 74356 ET-LAD55LW PANASONIC LCD/DLP LAMP ...	Customer Review: Click Here for More Info	$0.00