How to Choose a Manual Screen:

Manual projection screens are the number one top seller at TechTraderz because of their small price tag. They are inexpensive and easy to use. They operate much like a window shade by pulling the screen down by hand, where it locks into place at various intervals. Manual screens, although they are slightly more sophisticated than a window shade, do have some similar drawbacks. They can snap back into the case too quickly, and because of their non-tensioned nature, are prone to waves and wrinkles.

Manufacturers have added some special features available on manual screens to help improve their quality. These features do add to the total cost of the screen, but it is really something to consider when making an investment in your home theater.

* CSR- Controlled Screen Return – A type of braking system that prevents the screen from rolling back into the case too quickly, thus prolonging the life of your screen. (seen on Da-Lite Model B with CSR and Model C with CSR)

* Tensioning Arms –You pull down the screen and then stretch the tensioning arm vertically behind the screen surface to help keep it flat. (seen on the Da-Lite Deluxe Model B screen)

* Commercial Models- Screens like the Da-Lite Model C or the Draper Luma 2 are considered larger commercial models. They can have an added benefit to any consumer though, because of their higher quality. The larger Model C and Luma 2 screens have a larger roller bar, housing, and a larger pull down bar. This added weight and size helps these manual screens hang much flatter and are not prone to the wrinkles and waves of the smaller Da-Lite Model B and Draper Luma screens.

A manual screen is still the most affordable screen available. Make sure you choose the quality and features that will help yours last long into the future.