Unlike long throw projectors that require a distance of about 4 feet from the screen to work, short and ultra-short throw projectors can be placed close to the wall or whiteboard for a focused image. These projects are popular in classrooms.
Often, a projector manufacturer will have the same model name for both a long and short throw version, which only differ by the type of lens.
Aesthetics
For those who are concerned about the aesthetics of having a projector mounted in their apartment ceiling, there are several options available. One of the most popular is to use a shelf mount that can be attached to an existing cabinet or other structure in your apartment. This method is often less expensive than installing a dedicated mounting system, and it also keeps the projector out of the way, blending in with your room layout. However, it does not offer as a clean an appearance as a ceiling mounted projector, and it may require more ventilation than other mounting solutions.
Another option is to install a projector mounting bracket. This is typically a metal frame that is placed in a wall and then attached to the ceiling. The bracket can be hidden behind the ceiling to keep it as a seamless part of your room design, and it can also be used for other purposes like home theater systems or even a display case. However, a bracket mounted on the ceiling will not be as easy to access for maintenance and cleaning as other mounting options, and it is important to make sure that the projector is properly aligned each time you turn it on.
Whether you mount your projector on the wall or on the ceiling, you will need to choose the right screen. Generally, any standard or long throw projector will work with most projection materials, but short and ultra short throw models will need to be paired with a specialty screen that has been designed for these models. You will also need to pay attention to the throw ratio spec for your projector, as this will help you determine how close you can mount it to the screen for a given image size.
UST projectors are often developed primarily to allow presenters to work closely with the projection screen without getting the projector’s glare in their eyes. This is particularly useful in classrooms and training rooms, where it is common to find spaces that cannot accommodate a standard projector’s necessary throwing distance.
Durability
While ceiling mounted projectors have some advantages, they can also be difficult to install if you aren’t a professional. For one, they require ceiling mounts to work which can often be difficult to find or purchase. Additionally, they are susceptible to damage if you accidentally drop the projector.
For these reasons, it’s important to hire a professional for the job. A professional can ensure your projector is properly installed and that the installation will not damage the room. They can also help you choose the right projector for your needs.
What Is an Ultra Short Throw Projector?
Unlike standard or short throw models, ultra short throw (UST) projectors can sit closer to the screen without blocking the image. They use a lens on the side of the projector that faces the screen to create an image. This makes them perfect for smaller spaces where a normal projector might not fit. UST projectors also work well in retail store windows, where the space is limited and a long throw would block the image.
The closer proximity of these projectors to the screen reduces glare and shadows, as well as cuts back on the length of cables needed to run them. While the close proximity can make a UST model more expensive than traditional projectors, it can save you money in the long run.
UST models work best with screens that are designed for them. They work best with ALR or CLR screens that filter out off-axis light. They also work well in rooms with ambient lighting because they can be placed closer to the wall without losing contrast and detail.
Another benefit of a ceiling mounted UST projector is that it is easy to align. While you can use a TV stand or other furniture to hold the projector, it is easier to get the image just right when you are using a ceiling mounted model. This can be especially helpful in homes with kids or pets, where accidental bumps of the projector can result in misalignment. This problem can be eliminated with a UST specific ceiling mount that has fine adjustment knobs to align the image.
Easy Installation
A projector’s throw is an important feature that determines how close it can be to a screen or wall and still deliver a focused image. Different projectors have different throws, which can vary between brands and models. A standard projector requires a distance of up to 5 or 6 feet from the wall or projection surface. However, short and ultra-short throw projectors can be placed within inches of the wall or screen. This makes them suitable for ceiling mounting.
When installing a ceiling mounted projector, it is best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for specific model. The steps may vary between models, but they typically include ensuring that the mounting surface is sturdy and capable of supporting the weight of the projector. This can be done using a stud finder or by checking the projector’s user manual for detailed information. It is also important to ensure that the projector is mounted securely, as this can help prevent tripping hazards.
After a projector is installed, it is important to test the image quality. Use a test pattern or other display to ensure that the image is accurate and properly aligned. You can also adjust the projector’s image settings, which can help improve image clarity and contrast.
Once the projector is tested and set up correctly, it is ready to be used. It is recommended that you mount the projector with a high-quality projector mount, which will allow for easy adjustments and help prevent unwanted movements or vibrations.
A ceiling mounted projector can be a great option for businesses or homes that need to display presentations, videos, or photos in a large room without compromising the aesthetics of the space. It is also a great way to replace a TV in a living room or home theater, as it can offer a much bigger picture than a television. However, it is important to consider the space available and your budget before making a purchase.
Safety
One of the primary advantages of ceiling mounting is that you can rest easy knowing that your projector will always be in a safe location where kids, pets or any other unruly household members cannot reach it. This also means that you won’t be constantly having to deal with the frustration of misalignment problems – which can occur when someone bumps the projector or knocks it off-center.
Depending on the type of ceiling mount you select, it may be possible to adjust the image position and alignment by using fine adjustment knobs. This is exponentially more convenient than relying on furniture positioning, and it may even eliminate the need for leveling your screen. High quality UST specific mounts also typically come with a horizontal shift function, which can be used to compensate for the difference in throw distance between short and ultra-short throw models.
While long-throw projectors require a significant amount of distance to create a usable image, short and ultra-short throw projectors can be placed very close to the projection surface, which makes them ideal for classrooms and small spaces. Getting the projector as close to the screen as possible will also ensure that you are not having to deal with shadows over the projected image, which can be a major nuisance in some applications.
When choosing a short or ultra-short throw projector, it’s important to check the manufacturer’s specs for specific image sizes and aspect ratios. Many manufacturers will have a chart in their marketing material that shows the distance required for a given size image, and this will help you determine whether or not a short or ultra-short throw model is appropriate for your needs.
Another benefit of a ceiling mounted short throw projector is that it will provide a much more stable and clear image than a traditional projector, which can suffer from a number of issues, including glare, contrast and color, if not properly configured. Additionally, ceiling mounts are often designed to accommodate the use of a flat projection screen, which will provide the best viewing experience for your audience.
