LCD's by  Srvivr2

With the rapid changing of technology, and the advance into the digital age, Lcd (Liquid Crystal Display) Presentations have become a common component in the industry for business and personal applications.   When it is time to purchase or upgrade to the newest LCD technology, I have gathered some information to help you in your decision to take the next step. For 8 years, I have worked with and tested some of the very first LCD panels, to the new Theatre mode DLP/LCD "Light Cannons". 

THE FIRST LCD

As desktop computers became smaller laptops, the idea to project information and video on a larger scale was inevitable. The first LCD panels were a simple lcd glass display.  There was no light to see the image, so you placed it on an overhead, (yes, from the days of the classroom).  The light would project through the lcd panel, and create an image of your laptop on the wall or a screen through the overhead.  The resolution was a very low CGA or VGA (640x480) if that, and the colors were either mono, or a few got fancy with up to 16. Compatability problems were also sometimes present between laptops, and panels.

But these were still marvels and the world was on its way to getting the laptop on a big screen so everyone was able to see their presentation.  The birth of an LCD Projector housed its own light source and although heavier, and still expensive, the image was nicer, as well as the colors increased. They also began to project video signals.

THE NEXT GENERATION

As laptops grew fancier and faster, LCD's grew brighter, and more colorful.  Soon 500 lumens (light measure) was exciting, and if the room lights were turned off, you could see a really nice picture or video. Many companies got in the production of this equipment.  Infocus lead the way with an 800 lumen easy to use, manual focus, side gun, but did require their own cable adaptor to plug into a laptop.  The manual focus was a nice touch,  because when you turned the LCD on, usually the focus was blurry, and it was difficult to adjust if you could not read the info which explained how to focus in the first place.   Most of the companies finally agreed on a standard VGA cable input.  Some also added a speaker for simple audio from a presentation. Epson also had their own LCD with controls for zooming, keystone, and various inputs.

In a short time, the race was on to have the brightest LCD, and the highest resolution (laptop display) to handle the more modern laptops. VGA went to SVGA. 1000 Lumen LCDs were keeping the room lights to a faint dim.  Video projectors that just handle video had also made their way to those with a desire for a movie-like setting in their home. A ceiling mount keeps the projector up high and safe with a remote control to adjust some basic functions. You will need a minimum of about 15 feet to throw the image on the wall.  The farther back you go, the bigger your image will be, but the picture will began to lose its brightness and maybe some clarity.

THE BIG GUNS

Today, the equipment seems to advance faster than getting it on the shelf.  5000 Lumen LCDs (called 5K's) have become the standard for  very impressive presentations or exhibits.  You can leave the lights on and most of them also handle the new HD (High Definition) signals that have moved quickly into the market.  Theatres have begun to replace the cinema film projectors with new "Digital Light Cannons" capable of throwing (projecting) up to 20,000 lumens.   This is usually done by a large LCD with 2 or 4 lamps inside that combine their brightness, and have become very efficient.

If you are going to purchase an LCD, consider what you will be using it for. 

• Will it be showing video and/or Laptop presentations? 
• What kind of audience will you have. 
• How big is the room you will be using? 
• What kind of budget do you have. 

These factors will determine the brightness and zoom level you will need in your LCD.  You might find a decent priced LCD at the electronics store, but if you want to invest in something a little more professional, and reliable, you will need to visit a specialty site.  Data Projections is a known supplier of the Infocus brand, and the new Christie Digital higher end projectors.  Almost all projectors now have standard video and computer inputs, and many support the newest formats which include component video, HD, DVI, and 1080dpi. 

TIPS

There are many models and brands to choose from, and the prices drop very quickly, so shop around.   You should be aware that the lamps can be pricey.  A standard LCD bulb could run up to $500.00, and will last approx 2000 hours.  If you are buying one for your home, it will be the place to gather on movie night, but I don't recommend using it for your everyday sitcom viewing.. They also need time to cool off the lamp when you power them down.  In fact, just because an LCD is smaller, does not mean it will be better.   The newer, tiny LCDs that are in production today, usually will not handle the heat flow from everyday usage, and should be carefully inspected weekly for heat damage.  I prefer a bigger one with a better cooling fan which will extend the life of the lamp and projector. A wise investment would be a battery backup in case you have a power fluctuation.  The lamps inside are very sensitive to voltage.  Routine maintenance and cleaning will ensure a long lasting, enjoyable projector. 

If you are buying an LCD on Ebay, feel free to ask questions about the life of the bulb, the maintenance performed, where it was used, and any issues the seller may have had.  A dust/smoke free environment is essential for long LCD life as they contain very tiny electronic and digital parts which are sensitive to air quality. 

Feel free to contact me with any questions about brands and recommendations. 

Good Luck !

Chris Geeting

Event technology Manager