Detailed below are answers to some
Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know what size screen I need?

The first step is to take some measurements. You'll need the ceiling height, and the length and width of the room. Next, Determine the optimum screen size based on room dimensions, planned audience seating size and arrangement. The rule of thumb is to fit the screen to the audience - not to the projector. Tasman Screens recommends the following formula for determining screen size: Viewing Distance = 1.5 - 2 x Screen Width.

What is a viewing cone?

The viewing cone is the area of the room for which the projected image produces the fullest spectrum view. This area is roughly in the shape of a cone with its point toward the centre of the screen. Viewing cones are described by defining the degree radius formed by the outer limits of the cone. Higher gain reflective screens produce narrower viewing cones, while matte surfaces produce a broader viewing cone.

What is gain?

Gain is achieved by using screen surface treatments to concentrate reflected light into a narrower viewing cone. Screens with little gain (.9 - 1.5) tend to produce the best overall picture quality.

What screen surface is right for me?

It is hard to beat flat matte white surfaces. These have a 1.0 gain, with an extremely wide viewing cone. Thanks to massive advances in projectors themselves over the last few years, the focus is no longer on choosing a screen to make up for what your projector can?t do but instead choose a screen that can show what your projector can do. See our 5 step guide to buying a projection screen for more detailed information on screen surfaces.

Which screen manufacturer is best?

There are several manufacturers producing a wide variety of screen systems. Often the decision is based on economics, or on which manufacturer's product meet the needs of a client. Sometimes a screen is custom configured, lead time can be a consideration. Quality, delivery time, competitive pricing, and warranty are all factors in determining a solution. Tasman Screens not only manufactures custom screens but has also formed direct agreements with some of the world's best manufacturers and can assist you in determining which screen best meets your needs.

What is the lead time for screen ordering?

Tasman Screens maintains most manual screens, portables screens, fixed screens and motorised screens in stock. The lead time for manufacture of custom screens is five working days.

What considerations should be made for ambient light and what can be done?

While the brightness of today's projectors overcome many adverse lighting conditions, picture quality does suffer as ambient light is flushed onto the screen. Sometimes picture quality can be dramatically improved by isolating ambient light away from the screen surface by seperate dimmer circuits or improved lighting fixtures. One tactic is to replace florescent transluscent diffusers with egg crate type diffusers that throw light directly down and away from the surface of the screen.

What other room conditions can affect picture quality?

Pay special attention to positioning screens with regard to HVAC vents. The airstream may cause the screen to wave, creating a distraction as areas of the screen move in and out of focus. This is primarily a consideration in drop down screens, and may be addressed by selecting a tab tensioned screen system.

Do I need a manual or electric screen?

This is really a question of economics and preference. Most manual and electric screens are available with the same surface treatments. Electric projection screens tend to give a better impression, tend to last longer and are less susceptible to sagging. Keep in mind the size of the screen. The larger the screen, the more likely that it will need to be electric, due to the mechanical power required to deploy and withdraw heavier screens. If you have a dedicated theatre room or entertainment room then get a fixed frame screen as these always provide the best picture quality possible.

What about HDTV and aspect ratio?

Aspect ratio is the ratio of the length of the screen to its height. Different media utilize different aspect ratios. For example, many A/V screens are based on a 1:1, or square ratio. Computer screens and video screens are most often a 4:3 ratio, and newer HDTV formats are 16:9. Tasman Screens recommends matching the aspect ratio of your screen to the aspect ratio of your projector.

How much should I expect to pay?

The greatest consideration to guard against is paying for a screen that fails to meet your needs. Purchasing a screen without considering the questions presented here, or a mistake in screen sizing can be costly. Manual screens are available for as little as a couple of hundred dollars whereas larger venue projection can run well in excess of 10k.

Where can I get more answers?

With the number of variable associated with most screens, it's best to partner with a solution provider who can consider your application and help determine what options are best. Please go to the links page to find a local supplier.