Install a projector in 5 steps

Our guide tells you everything you need to know about installing a projector quickly. Install your home cinema, presentation or school projector in just 5 steps. Quick and easy!

Assuming that the optics of a projector offer a projection ratio of 1.5 - 1.66:1, a distance of 1.5 - 1.66 m is required for 1 m of image width.

To achieve a picture width of 2 m, we calculate 2 × 1.66 = 3.32. This value corresponds to the greatest distance to the wall in metres. Then we calculate 2 × 1.5 = 3, which is the smallest distance between the projector and the screen. We can therefore vary the distance of the projector between 3 and 3.32 metres to obtain a picture width of 2 metres.

An offset value of 50 per cent, for example, means that a projector must be aligned with the bottom edge of the screen for a straight projection.

With an offset value of 0 per cent, the projector is level with the centre of the screen, which is usually the case for projectors with good lens shift. For ceiling mounting, this offset must be mirrored vertically downwards accordingly, especially if the projector is to be hung there.

Vertical and horizontal lens shift can only be combined to a limited extent. If horizontal and vertical lens shift are used simultaneously, both restrict each other and the maximum values cannot be achieved. When trying to set the maximum values, the lens therefore follows the shape of a stop sign rather than a rectangle.

The lens shift value is always specified from the centre of the lens. This means that with a vertical lens shift of +/-50%, for example, the image can be shifted up or down by 50% of the image height from the centre of the image. The same applies to the horizontal lens shift.

There are various ways to set the keystone correction. The classic method is to press a button on the surface of the projector. It is somewhat more convenient to use the remote control.

Classic colour settings for home cinema are, for example, "Cinema" or, for other manufacturers, "Cinema". For business projectors used in conference or meeting rooms, we recommend the "Presentation" colour setting or a comparable setting. Although this reduces colour fidelity, it offers high brightness. Ideal for bright rooms.

In contrast, avoid the "Bright" or "Bright" picture setting. Here you can achieve maximum brightness, but at the expense of picture quality. If you want to carry out a calibration yourself, this may not reach the level of a professional calibration, but it can improve the picture. Use test images for this. You can find a suitable provider via Google search.

In addition to the default settings, some projectors offer colour management settings. Depending on the model, calibration menus are available in accordance with the ISF (Imaging Science Foundation) or ISF ccc standard. These allow you to save colour profiles after the projector has been calibrated by a certified body. Compared to conventional modes, a calibrated projector gives you significantly better image quality.

The lamp setting influences the image quality. You can usually choose between normal and eco mode. Full brightness is achieved in normal mode. This mode is therefore a must for bright rooms. If it is possible to darken the room, eco mode is a good alternative. The light output is reduced and the picture appears slightly darker. This has a positive effect on the image contrast and extends the service life of the projector lamp.