Retractable Projector Screen FAQ - Get Answers Before You Buy a Projector Screen

A retractable projector screen is a good option for those looking to buy a projector screen as you can roll up into a metal casing when not in use. This allows for easier portability, and can keep the viewing area safe from harm. There are both pull-down and motorized projection screens, and in this article I will go into some of the commons questions asked by those purchasing a retractable projection screen.How can I save money on a retractable screen?Retractable manual screens are typically much cheaper than electric ones. While there are some exceptions, you will typically pay a large premium for electric screens. The effect of an electric screen rolling down in front of everyone can be exhilarating, but if your goal is getting a cheap projector screen look at a manual screen first.What is with the different material colors?The projector screen material typically comes in several different shades, and this is to accommodate different viewing angles, and ambient light situations. You will need to look at the manufacturers specifications for this, as different screen surfaces are used. A good all around color is matte white providing a large viewing angle, and a decent handling of ambient light.Do I need to have a tensioned screen?Some projection screens have a mechanism for tensioning with tabs on the side of the screen. What tensioning does is ensure the screen is completely flat which ensures a good picture. In most cases it is unnecessary to have a tab-tensioned screen, and a quality screen will have enough weight attached to the bottom of the screen to hang flat on its own.Does the black border make a difference?The black border enhances the quality of the image, and is especially important if you will be using the screen as a home theater projector screen. The reason for this is two-fold, the black border can absorbs excess light on the edges of the image making it less noticeable, and improves the perceived contrast of the image. This should be made of light absorbent fabric on all sides, not metal, to be most effective.What screen ratio should I choose?The ratio for a HDTV projection screen should be 16:9. For a normal definition projection the ratio is typically 4:3, but in some cases 1:1. This will have a large image on the viewing experience as large gaps of white above and below, or at the sides of the image will definitely detract from the viewing experience.

Make Your Own Portable Projector Screen

Portable projector screens are expensive and are known to cost as much as the portable projector itself. Many people set out to make their own screen, or find some way to have the projected image show up in a way that will not inhibit their viewing. If you are interested in making your own portable projector screen, here are a few tips that you should keep in mind.Portable Projector ScreenThe most important part of the screen is the material that you use. Some people opt to go for something as simple as a white bed sheet, but others are looking for a more stable style of screen. Blackout cloth is another excellent option for individuals that are looking for a material for their screen. It also may be a good idea for you to visit your local fabric store and get a look at some of the fabric options that are available to you. White is usually a good color to use, as well as black. Try asking some of the workers in the store what style of cloth they would recommend for the projector. Make sure that you purchase a piece of cloth that will leave a few inches around the edges of the screen so that you are never projecting onto the wall.Projector Screen RollerA project screen roller can also be easily fashioned to preserve complete quality. Some of the more popular choices for the roller are a wood dowel or some type of plastic piping and an end piece to keep the screen from rolling off the very end of the pipe. Make sure that you add some weight to both sides of the pipe to make sure that the end pieces stay on and also so that the screen is not damaged when you attempt to roll it out.Projector Screen CasesAnother inexpensive way that you can store the screen is to use a piece of plastic piping. Roll the screen up and place it inside the pipe, and then cover both ends to make sure that it does not easily slide out. You can also choose to fold the screen, but keep in mind that will leave creases and will require that you iron the fabric before each use.Final WordsCreating your own projection screen is a simple task, but does take a bit of extra elbow grease than say if you purchased it in a store. Make sure to test everything out before using it so you know that it works as intended, and find a nice place to store it. Since the screen and roller are made at home, they will probably be more likely to break if you handle them without care.This is an excellent and inexpensive way for you to create a projection screen without having to worry about spending hundreds of dollars in the process. Although there are cheaper screens available, often times you will be able to create similar quality at home.