Careful planning is important for the overall success of your video system. Even if you are unsure of what you need, this simple checklist will assist you in gathering the essential information for your project.
Our goal is to make the process as simple as possible with the end result that your presentation system meets or exceeds your expectations.
Before considering equipment it is helpful for you to sketch a diagram of the room, noting where the various components may be placed, and taking accurate measurements.
Careful planning is also helpful from a budgeting perspective. It will help you establish a reasonable budget for what you will need to spend to achieve your desired results.
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Video Projector and Carry Case
This is the "heart" of the system and will be the single most expensive piece of equipment in the system. Buy the brightest model you can afford to properly do the job. Typically you can use a less bright projector in a rear screen application than in a comparable front screen situation.
For portable projectors a suitable carry/storage case is important.
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Program Source Equipment
You need a computer, VCR, DVD player or some other equipment to provide a signal to the video projector.
In addition, depending on your total system (how many and what type of signal sources and how many video projectors), you may need distribution amplifiers, mixer, or switchers for your complete system.
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Projection Screen
You need to decide if you will use front or rear projection.
Most existing room applications will use front projection--ceiling or stand mounted. Rear screen projection has the advantage of keeping the projector out of the audience view and making it easier for stage movement. However, it may be difficult and expensive to incorporate rear projection into a room that was not designed for it.
Another basic question is how large the screen should be. A rough rule of thumb is to take the distance from the screen to the last row of seats and divide by 6. The result is a guide to the width of the screen.
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Projector Stand/Mounting
Will you be using a ceiling mount or a stand mount? Eiki ceiling mounts attach to 1 1/2" threaded pipe which you obtain locally. If your ceiling is angled, you may need an adjustable ceiling plate.
A stable stand or cart is needed for mobile situations.
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Sound Systems
The audio portion of your program will be routed from the audio output of the playback device (VCR, DVD player, computer, etc.) to the imput of a sound system.
EPS has portable audio systems for mobile applications.
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Power Sources
In most cases, the video system components will be connected to reliable electrical sources. However, EPS recommends the use of a quality surge suppressor to protect the video projector from electrical variations.
Extensions cords and a generator may be needed for mobile systems.
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Connecting Cables
High quality cables are important to maintain signal strength. Depending on cable lengths and signal sources, line boosters may be needed.
Depending on your design, projector control extensions may be needed to provide your operator with convenient projector contol access.
