The education sector is one of the most intensive environments for a projector - many are in continual use for almost an entire day, unlike traditional business applications where they may be used on and off in meeting rooms. Like most technologies, projectors have a finite lifespan and will ultimately need to be replaced if they are to continue to offer teaching benefits. Tell tale signs that a projector is not performing as well as it should be include: lower brightness levels (even when light bulbs are replaced) and a deterioration of image quality - both of which can create eyestrain for anyone looking at the screen for an extended period of time. Warranty agreements also have their limitations - the older projectors become, the more frequently they will require technical support. This could prove costly over a period of time once the warranty has expired.
The good news is that there have been a number of technology advancements in recent years that can offer in higher quality images at a lower cost. However, it's important to understand the implications of these new developments to ensure that the right projector is chosen for the right job.
The price of projectors has reduced in recent years. While this is a good thing in theory, it's important to look closely at what is being offered and consider how this could affect the longer term cost of owning the projector. For example, lower initial outlay costs may seem appealing when accompanied by a five year warranty, but on closer inspection this may have a number of exclusions. They can apply only to specific parts of the projector or place limits on the number of hours that the projector can be in use in order to qualify for cover.
In some cases, the reason the price may appear lower is because the actual design specification of the projector may have changed. This can affect input options including the number of inputs available, so make sure that the chosen projector is of comparable, if not better, functionality as the existing one.
When assessing which resolution to go for, an important balance is needed between the resolution of the input device and the projector itself. If a PC with an XGA (1024 x 768 pixel) resolution is connected to a SVGA (800 x 600 pixel) projector, the projector will scale the image to fit the number of pixels available. This can have a noticeable affect on the projected image and ultimately reduces the quality of the overall image. To get the most out of the technology it is essential that the projector's native resolution should match the resolution provided by the PC.
Security is still an important factor to consider when choosing a projector for the education market. The industry has adopted a standard practice of manufacturing projectors destined for education establishments in a distinctive bright orange colour. While some people may be deterred from purchasing kit in such a striking colour, they should bear in mind that it will equally deter anyone from stealing a projector and trying to pass it on to third parties. Other security functions to look out for include customisable start up screen used to identify the projector as a school's property, and PIN security - if the power is cut to the projector, then a PIN is needed to restart the device. Additionally, some projector manufacturers have removed any control buttons from the cabinet of the projector, and have given the device an exclusive set of control codes not used by other models. This means that the projector can only be operated by a remote control unit which can be easily stored in a secure location away from the projector itself.
The last few years have seen an increase in the availability of short throw projectors which create the same size image as a standard projector, but can be located closer to the screen. This reduces the likelihood of a shadow being cast by a presenter standing between the projector and the screen or interactive whiteboard. It also makes for more comfortable for presentations as presenters are less likely to be distracted by the projected light, enabling them to communicate and engage better with their audience. In addition, security can also be enhanced as the device becomes part of an integrated system, while installation and maintenance are simplified, minimising classroom disruption.
In the further education sector where there may be a larger number of projectors to maintain, additional features should also be considered. Sanyo has developed an Active Maintenance Filter (AMF) which extends the service interval on the projector from approximately 200 hours on standard projectors, to 3000 hours. This filtration system consists of a filter cartridge and an airflow sensor that detects when the airflow is obstructed by dust. The projector automatically advances a clean section of filter as needed. When the last section of filter material becomes obstructed an on-screen graphic appears telling the user to change the cartridge.
Another consideration could be to network projectors enabling remote monitoring and control of devices on the network. Projectors can be remotely shut down to maximise lamp life, changes can be made to set up options to resolve faults, and e-mail alerts can be directed to a central administrator to advise of maintenance requirements. All these features help to ensure that the projector is available when needed.
Whether being used by a school or Further Education establishment, projectors continue to prove their worth. As technology continues to develop, features which were previously only available at the higher end of the market are gradually filtering down to all market segments, bringing with them improved operation and greater comfort to teachers and pupils alike.
