Projector Questions

[ShawnE94SL]

I was recently given a projector. It's a HP DLP vp6310 and I have a few questions on how to properly hook it up. Now, I'm most likely on going to use this to play video games (Xbox360/PS3). Right now all of my components are going into my receiver via HDMI. This projector does do 720p, but over VGA to component. So, my question is, do I just plug the component (VGA) into a component output on my receiver or will this not work because the HDMI signals won't work over component??? I'm confused. Also, do I buy a 16x9 or a 4:3 screen? Does it matter?

[WriteSimply]

GRIPE: If you can, do your own research first so that you (and us) can know the basics. Anything else that is not covered, post them here.

This projector is SVGA. Meaning it has 800x600 resolution. Meaning that while DVD at 480p is okay (and upconverted by the projector), BD or HD cable/broadcast will be DOWNCONVERTED by the projector from 1080p/1080i/720p to 600p. Because this is a downconversion, component-to-VGA cable would work (I tested a similar OLD SVGA PJ using this connection) because it's not a threat to copying.

Since it's 800x600, you should get a 4:3 screen. BUT SERIOUSLY, don't buy a screen. Just DIY with VERY inexpensive stuff and don't put a lot of effort into it because it IS 800x600. You're getting a bigger picture but with no resolution to enjoy it with. Buy a screen or DIY a very good one when you have the means to invest in a 720p/1080p PJ.


fuad

[ShawnE94SL]

I do plan on upgrading to a better projecter at some point, but for now this will do. I will most likely just use it to play COD4 as it was given to me. Because I am going to upgrade, should I just buy a 16X9 screen now?

[Another_Dude]

Originally Posted by ShawnE94SL

I do plan on upgrading to a better projecter at some point, but for now this will do. I will most likely just use it to play COD4 as it was given to me. Because I am going to upgrade, should I just buy a 16X9 screen now?

If you can't make a screen to save some money and you do have to buy, then absolutly go w/ 16:9 over 4:3.

[WriteSimply]

Originally Posted by ShawnE94SL

Because I am going to upgrade, should I just buy a 16X9 screen now?

You can but here's a spanner: The type of screen (not aspect ratio) you buy should match the projector you are going to buy as well as the size of the image you want.

Big image + low lumens = reflective screen
Medium image + high lumens = painted wall.

That's just a crass example. The point is, UNLESS you have a specific model or type of projector you want to upgrade to, don't buy a screen for this HP PJ yet. Otherwise your PJ upgrade would not be complemented by your screen and you may end up spending more money for a better one that better match your PJ upgrade.

EDIT: I'm trying to DISSUADE you into buying a screen based on a free PJ. You can still use it with a white wall or a quick-n-dirty DIY screen but don't put a lot of effort and money in it.


fuad

[ShawnE94SL]

I see. So I should really build my own right now ot just buy a cheap screen. If I had to buy a screen for this projector right now, what would you recommend. Can you point me in the right direction?

[Beta Man]

Buy (or build) a 16:9 Screen.

And I bet you'll be watching movies on it no time..... and I bet you'll upgrade to a better projector even faster than you think

[ShawnE94SL]

Any links on how to build your own screen?