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What is a digital projector?
A digital projector is a projector that can be hooked up to a computer and then used to display the images from the computer onto a wall or screen for everyone to see.
What to look for
A digital projector that scores well for home cinema use is unlikely to be what you want for a classroom environment. So we have put together this short guide to help you choose a digital projector without getting bogged down in the hype and, in some cases, irrelevancies of specifications. What follows are the practical requirements of a digital projector for the classroom.
 Projector image A good quality image from the projector is vital. The brightness of the image is measured in lumens. For interactive whiteboard use, teachers have recommended 1500 lumens to ensure good quality images.
Projector sound capabilities Many projectors can now also act as speakers, boosting the sound level in the classroom.
Projector lamps There are two financial aspects to lamps. There is the life of the lamp (usually between 2000-4000 hours) and there is the cost of its replacement (typically around ?250). Keep both in mind when checking out lamps. Look at our reference on projector maintenace to find out how this affects lamp life.
Projector resolution There are two resolutions: SVGA (good quality) and XGA (better quality). XGA is more expensive. However, in every day use, there doesn't seem to be much difference.
Projector weight Generally, the lighter the projector, the less powerful it is. So usually you only want a lighter proejctor if you plan on moving it around. Even then a projector that is luggable, will probably be acceptable.
Ceiling mounting If you are going to have the projector ceiling mouted, make sure that the projector you choose is designed to be ceiling mounted.
Angled projection When the projector is projecting at an angle it displays a rectangle in the shape of a keystone (called "keystoning). Some projectors can correct a ?keystone? projection. In other words, they can straighten the image to make it rectangular.
Choice In selecting a projector, it is important you get one that meets your needs, not an inferior projector with a price reduction. An inferior one may save you money but is unlikely to be used much.
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