Basic Projector Set Up

[Brain Sturgeon]

Originally Posted by Jhodi

ok, the mitsi hc1500 has 1600 lumens.

1600 divided by 43.89 = 36.45

36.45 x 2.8 gain = 102.06

Can you find the error?

No error-- your math is fine. The rated lumens on the projector is typically the "maxed out" light output of the projector, which is usually not its best viewing mode. Even so, most projectors will never get to that max rating. For instance, my projector is rated at 850 lumens, but real world testing shows a max of about 700 in brightest mode. For most projectors, the "calibrated lumens" is much less than the rated lumens spec. You'll probably want to put the projector into economy mode and adjust the iris down (if there is one) to reduce the light output a bit and improve your contrast ratio for optimum viewing.

Either way, you're likely to have a very bright image with your setup-- this is good if you want to do any viewing with ambient light. If needed, you can always reduce the light output of the projector by applying a neutral density filter to the lens.

In regards to your projector upgrade, your old projector is technically not HDTV spec-- your video display needs a resolution of at least 1280x720 to be able to display true HDTV. Your new projector will have about 2x the resolution of your old one-- I don't think you will have too much trouble seeing the improvement.

[Jhodi]

Cool.

THANK YOU so much for your energy and input.

I'll let you know how it goes and maybe take some pictures.

This system is in our basement and will be very dark. Econo mode it is!

[jomari]

Originally Posted by Jhodi

The Optoma is as such: DLP™ Display Technology
1800 ANSI Lumens
800 x 600 Native Resolution
4:3 Native Aspect Ratio
2000:1 Contrast Ratio
4.4 lbs
HDTV Compatible
1 Year Warranty
and the Mitsi
DLP™ Display Technology
1600 ANSI Lumens
1280 x 720 Native Resolution
16:9 Native Aspect Ratio
2500:1 Contrast Ratio
6.5 lbs
1 Year Warranty

How much better will the Mitsi actually be, I wonder?

considering that your former pj was at a 4:3 native aspect ratio, and the newer mitsu is at a 16:9 widescreen ratio, it would be a great step up.

as mentioned earlier, when a pj is hd compatible, it has to have a resolution of 1280 x720 to handle 720p/1080i and 1080p signals (with 1080p set at widescreen for a 720p pj)

again, when i mentioned the upgrade on the screen i did NOT mention it was a bad screen, its CAN be an upgrade based on an owners VARIABLES.

try to use your pj at econo mode to further extend your bulb life. even at 1000 lumens if your screen gain is standing at 2.8 it would definitely bring a great picture out

[Jhodi]

Jomari, we are all ok about your complete dissing of my new screen.

hahahha Just teasin' ya.

I love all the input and support here. Without this forum, none of this would have happened.

I mean, think about it. The Bose system happened before I found you guys! Look what kind of shape I have been in!

And I certainly would not have known to run on econo mode which is so great for extended bulb life and for a good picture. A win win situation.

[jomari]

you keep on mentioning bose btw, i dont know if thats a good idea. some people dislike em, and some would walk through hell twice if it meant their dissipation into space or what not. doesnt bother me tho, they are a 'good' product, just overpriced for what it really is. a little search here and there would mention both bose, and monster products are hyped to infinity.

anyways, the only, the ONLY time i use anything but economode is certain movies, or get togethers that i find my closest friends or family 'deserve'.

[Jhodi]

Certain folks simply aren't non-econo mode worthy!

And then, some folks are.

[Jhodi]

Thanks to everyone who gave me advice and basically taught me about this stuff from absolute zero knowledge.

System is set up and the new screen is gorgeous, the PQ rocks, and I am SO glad my Samsung 37 inch TV funked out and I went with the 106 inch diagonal screen/projector route. I have a HOME THEATER in my BASEMENT!!!! YEY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[crackinhedz]

we need pictures!