Types of Overhead Projectors

Overhead projectors come in a variety of styles and models. The type you choose for your business should suit the environment and the functions for which the device will be used. When evaluating overhead projectors for use or purchase, you'll want to consider the type of lens used, the projector's brightness and whether the lenses and mirror are enclosed or exposed.

The type of lens used in an overhead projector determines the quality of images that are projected onto a screen. The three most common types are singlet, doublet and triplet. A projector with a triplet lens should produce images superior to those of one containing a singlet or doublet lens. If your company presentations make frequent use of detailed, high-resolution color graphics or spreadsheets, an overhead projector with a triplet lens may be your best bet. However, if most presentations will be done in black and white with large text, then an overhead projector with a singlet lens should suffice.

An overhead projector's brightness is important when considering whether presentations will be done in a large meeting room or auditorium or in a small training room with dim lighting. Projectors with 2,500 lumens or less should be sufficient for a small meeting room with dim lighting while those with 2,500 to 3,000 lumens should be better suited for a classroom-type setting with normal lighting. For meeting rooms approaching the size of an auditorium, the best option may be an overhead projector with 3,000 lumens or more.

The head type of a projector is important if you are concerned about the longevity of the device or ease of use. Projectors with a closed head keep out dust and fingerprints and may better help protect the device from human damage and environmental wear and tear. Open head projectors tend to be more compact and much easier to clean. An inverted head projector can offer a better screen view due to its lower projector height.

Whether your overhead projector will remain in one room or be taken on the road, may also come into play when making a decision on the type of device to use. For portability, you'll want a projector that is compact and collapsible. Price is also an important consideration. Triplet lens projectors may run more than those with a doublet or singlet lens. Where a singlet lens projector can cost $200 or more, a doublet lens model can go for twice that much while a triplet lens projector can go for three times as much. Comparison shopping online can help you procure the projector that fits your needs at the absolute best price.