Setting up interiors, want to make it projector/screen ready.

[kush]

Hey..So I'm getting interiors done before I move in, which includes false ceiling, tv back panelling etc. I'm not going to buy a projector and screen now, but I'm sure I'll be getting one in the next few months.

I want to ensure that I don't have to get work done again, so I'm planning to make it projector/screen ready. I could do with suggestions and help on several facets. I haven't selected a projector or screen yet, and interior work has just started, so anything should be possible.

The wall (actually a panel on the wall), on which I plan to put the screen will be around 6.5 feet in width. There's a TV that will be installed on this panel, and I need the screen to roll down, covering the TV. There's a french window on the left of this wall.

The viewing distance is about 10 feet.


I have the following questions:

1. 4:3 or 16:9 screens? What screen size ?
2. What should be the height at which the screen is installed?
3. Should the projector be wall mounted or ceiling mounted? If ceiling mounted, then do I need a lens shift projector?
4. If wall mounted, at what height do I mount the projector?
5. I want a 3D, full HD projector, budget is entry level. Should I be selecting a projector first, and the other answers depend on that selection?
6. I would prefer an automated screen. Will I have to do anything to provision for the installation of the screen now?
7. I plan to route HDMI and power cables from the false ceiling.


Budget: Looking at an entry level 3D, full hd projector and an entry level automated screen.

Usage: Tata Sky at times, PS3 games and movies.

 

[realactivex]

Hi Kush
6.5 feet is too little. considering the borders etc, Might not be worth the effort. You are better off with a bigger TV.

 

[Naturelover]

6.5 feet width would be great at 10 feet viewing distance. No large TV can match a projector. I have a 50" TV behind my 7' wide screen screen.
I've done almost exactly what you plan. My room is a 17'x13' living room.
My screen is a old 7' wide 4:3 manual screen which I pull down just enough to simulate a 16:9 screen
My living room AV set-up is now done

Now, to your questions:
1. Go for 16:9 since most videos are wide screen these days. 4:3 does not make sense.
2. This should be comfortable for viewing depending upon the seating style. I fusing a regular sofa, do not go too high but if using a recliner, can go higher.
Vertical Viewing Angle
3. Wall/ceiling mount will depend upon the distance between the screen and pj. Not too sure on the lens shift thing but I believe it is not absolutely necessary but better read up or wait for more opinions
4. Height will depend upon the pj.
5. The pj has to be selected first since it has to fit the room. All projectors have minimum and maximum throw limitations.
Projection Calculator Pro - Projector to Screen Distance
6. For automated screen, leave a connection for the motor. A trigger cable from the pj will lower it when you switch on the pj.
7. You can route HDMI and power cables from the false ceiling. Only they should be at a distance form each other. Use a good quality HDMI cable. Do look at laying out CAT cable just in case the pj supports it.

 

[kush]

Thank you for all the replies.

I was on a trip to the US, and got an Optoma HD141X with me!