What All Those Initials Really Mean

Okay, here is where all those initials come into play – you know – DLP, CRT, LCD. Different projectors use different technologies in order to get the picture from the projector to the screen. And, that is where the lens comes into action. Each type of lens works a different way.

The type of projector lens that your projector uses will be listed in the specifications for your projector. Here is how a few of them work:

DLP – Digital Light Processor – this lens works hand in hand with a device known as a Digital Mirror Device, or DMD. The DMD is made up of millions of microscopic mirrors that move and tilt in order to let light get through at different points in order to create an image. The DMD only shows black and white images, though. So, in order to produce color images, the DLP lens also uses a color wheel. The reflected light from the millions of tiny mirrors shines through the color wheel to display color images on your screen.

CRT – Cathode Ray Tube – one of the most common uses for a CRT lens is in a television. The lens projects a small image onto a mirror, which then reflects the image onto a larger screen, such as a television screen or a computer screen.

LCD – Liquid Crystal Display - LCD projectors use a light source, a prism that splits light into red, green, and blue. Electricity is used to heat or cool the liquid crystal in order to allow or block light when needed. LCD works well in battery-operated electronics because of the minimum amount of electricity needed to obtain the desired results.

8mm projector lens – these lenses are used most often in cameras and were once used in most movie projectors. While you can still find projectors that use a 8mm lens, most brands have advanced to the CRT, LCD, and DLP technologies.

Finding a projector lens cheap does not have to be a headache. You can search the Internet for a discount projector lens dealer or you can even find a new projector lens on auctions sites at discounted prices. All it takes is just a few keystrokes to find the best projector lens for you projector – and knowing a few facts about your projector lens will help you choose the best projector for your home theater. Being able to see clearly will make a huge difference in your home theater experience.