Setting up your LCD projector for your home theater is not as hard as it may seem. Even if you are not technically savvy, it can be as easy as setting up a VCR or DVD player. Here are a few tips to help you get your new system going.
1. Choose the LCD projector that meets your needs. There are dozens of LCD projects available, all offering different functions at different prices. Some receive data from SmartCards and thumb drives, for example, while others only receive data from USB or RGB ports. Know what you will use to transmit data to your projector before making your purchase.
If you are using your projector exclusively for your home theater, then you will need to purchase a projector that can be set up with a DVD player or computer. Make sure you purchase a system that has compatible connectors with your existing equipment if you do not plan to buy any more pieces of electronics. To make sure you choose the right one for your needs, ask a sales agent at your electronics store.
2. Acquaint yourself with the equipment. Your LCD projector will come with a series of cords, receivers and auxiliary items. Take a few moments to flip through the user guide to make sure you know what each item is meant for.
Being familiar with your cords can mean the difference between knowing how to get your video to play or not. For example, if you are using a DVD player or television receiver, then you will most likely use the RGB ports to connect your LCD player to your equipment. If you were using your computer to project an image, then you would probably use either a parallel port or USB port.
3. Project your image onto a good surface. The surface that your image will appear on will make the difference between a good image and an excellent image. If you purchase a projector screen, then set the screen up in an area of the room that has little direct light. The more the direct light onto the screen, the softer the image will come through because the lights from the projector will be cancelled out.
If you are projecting onto a wall or other hard surface, make sure the surface is smooth and doesn’t reflect back. Having a surface that absorbs light, such as a matte paint or taut sheet, will help your image to appear crisp.
4. Purchase good speakers to use with your LCD projector. Most LCD projectors do not come with speakers. Your speakers can be as nice or minimal as you choose. Most people choose to purchase nice computer speakers for their LCD projectors because computer speakers are small and inexpensive.
However, it is also nice to have a surround sound system in your home theater. If you have the budget for a surround sound system, then you will need to find a set of speakers and a receiver that is compatible with your LCD projector.
Before making your purchase, check to see what kind of input the speaker system requires in order to project sound from the LCD projector. It would be best to find a system that can receive coaxial cable input or audio input, as most LCD projectors have these capacities.
Finally, choose a spot in your room that is safe and free from obstructions between the projector and the wall/screen. Plug your system in, hit the power button, sit back and enjoy your new home theater!