Classroom Projectors

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Permalink Reply by Antwon Lincoln on March 11, 2008 at 11:43am

Greetings,

The Epson and the Infocus projectors are pretty good. They make quality projectors for any budget. The key things that you will need to consider will be the bulb. Many schools buy projectors and forget to purchase a surplus of bulbs ($300+).

I would not recommend too many. I would recommend that you have at least 2 bulbs on surplus. But make sure you put money aside to make additional purchase if needed. To save make sure that you let the user of the projector know to turn off the projector when not in use.

Also, as for the price, depending on the amount that your are looking for, anything is negotiable.

I hope this helps.

Antwon Lincoln

Permalink Reply by Eric Jarvis on March 11, 2008 at 4:04pm

We've been happy with the Epson PowerLite 83C. I had to send one back, and Epson sent a replacement quickly. They are the quietest projectors I've used. When you click AV Mute, it completely cuts the signal. Some still project a blue light.

Permalink Reply by Barbara on March 13, 2008 at 4:40pm

I have an Infocus 24. I love it! I think they are about $550.

Permalink Reply by Bruce Gale, PhD on March 15, 2008 at 8:35am

I have used quite a few projectors over the years (currently have three). You can certainly get a good quality projector for under $800 and a decent one for under $600. Having said that, there are definitely advantages to spending up to $1500 for certain features. Here are a few things to consider in your purchases:

1. Is size a consideration? If so, generally DLP projectors are smaller, although I am partial to a Panasonic projector that is LCD.
2. Projector Sound. No one ever mentions this, but some of the small projectors. while nice, produce really annoying "whining" sounds. Since most companies use similar components throughout their line of projector models, visit Office Depot, Best Buy an A/V store and get them to plug it in, then listen for five minutes. I have an Optima DLP projector that makes a really annoying sound. While my kids (I use it in social skills groups) haven't complained, it bothers me.
3. Color fidelity. I have generally been happier with LCD projectors, especially with reds and yellows, which show up a bit "off" and a bit "muddy" with the DLP projectors I've used. LCD projectors are reported to have greater pixelation problems, but I haven't experienced this.
4. Quiet/"Econo"/mode. You will get more lamp life if you reduce the brightness and many have different settings for how many lumens (light output) they display.
5. Brightness. Generally 2000-2500 lumens is a safe number for most classroom situations. If you want a tiny machine ($400-$600) and are working with very small groups, the "pocket projectors" which literally fit in the palm of your hand and display just a few hundred lumens can be good for working with a small group of students. Some are even battery operated.
6. Wired/wireless . Increasingly, you can have your computer wirelessly connect to the projector. The main advantage is that you can be at one end of the room while your projector is elsewhere. You're no longer tethered. You can achieve the same effect however, with a wireless keyboard and mouse.

Here is a link to PC Magazines reviews of projectors. Also for PC World.
7. Brands. Popular brands include: Epson, Tobhiba, Panasonic, In Focus, and Optima. I currently have a Panasonic and an Optima. I like the Panasonic better. The focusing seems more precise, it produces better colors, but the Optoma has both DVI and VGA connectors, plus can handle more inputs.

Costco's web site (www.costco.com) is a good place to look. It will give you a sense of competitive pricing. DO take a moment a look at the bulb ratings, warranties, and cost of a bulb replacement (they can vary considerably). Some companies have specials that include a second bulb (highly recommended). Finally, will it be stationary or moved around? If the latter, try to see what kind of case comes with it. My Panasonic case is very flimsy, for example and it didn't come with a lens cover. You didn't mention how they will be used, but the cost of wall and ceiling mounting kits can also vary considerably. Finally, what a bout a sound system? I highly recommend checking out speakers from www.saitek.com. You'd be amazed what the tiny A-100 can produce and I can present to an audience of 25 with the A-200, (the A-250 is incredible).

There's more to consider, but perhaps this will move you along. Good luck!

Permalink Reply by sknobel on March 18, 2008 at 1:49pm

Thank you all who responded to my question. It was great to see what different users like and dislike in projectors are, it sure will help me with my search. Thanks again.