Okay so I have been reading alot and I have decided I want to build a projector that can be connected to my pc. I want to build a custom projector with a resolution of 640x480 following method 2 in the wiki and I was wondering if anyone could help me figure out what parts to get. All of the threads I have been reading are a few years old.
Method #2: Designing your own custom projector
If the overhead projector/LCD Projection Panel Method isn't what your looking for, there's many other ways to make a custom projector. The most simple method is using a small LCD scren, a wooden box, a bright light source, and a projection lens(Most people use a surplus lens from a projection TV). This is how it works.
Step 1: Remove the Backlight from the LCD panel. This way only the clear LCD Panel is left. This must be done VERY carefully, if the ribbon cables connecting the LCD to the circuitry break you're pretty much out of luck. They are next to impossible to repair.
Step 2: Construct a wooden box. Most people make their boxes out of plywood. The box inside should be spraypainted black. A hole big enough for the lens must be cut in the front.
Step 3: Assemble everything. Put the lens in, mount the LCD screen behind the lens. Put your light source behind the LCD, don't put it too close so it doesn't overheat the LCD, but don't put it too far away, you want too lose as little light as possible! Most people use a light source from 300-500 watts. I've heard there are some worklights that work well and put off little heat, but there are many types, you just have to find what is right for your projector. You might want to consider adding fans if your bulb runs too hot for the LCD screen.
Step 4: If all goes well, this is where you plug your projector in and try it out. It will likely take some fooling around with.
Method #2: Designing your own custom projector
If the overhead projector/LCD Projection Panel Method isn't what your looking for, there's many other ways to make a custom projector. The most simple method is using a small LCD scren, a wooden box, a bright light source, and a projection lens(Most people use a surplus lens from a projection TV). This is how it works.
Step 1: Remove the Backlight from the LCD panel. This way only the clear LCD Panel is left. This must be done VERY carefully, if the ribbon cables connecting the LCD to the circuitry break you're pretty much out of luck. They are next to impossible to repair.
Step 2: Construct a wooden box. Most people make their boxes out of plywood. The box inside should be spraypainted black. A hole big enough for the lens must be cut in the front.
Step 3: Assemble everything. Put the lens in, mount the LCD screen behind the lens. Put your light source behind the LCD, don't put it too close so it doesn't overheat the LCD, but don't put it too far away, you want too lose as little light as possible! Most people use a light source from 300-500 watts. I've heard there are some worklights that work well and put off little heat, but there are many types, you just have to find what is right for your projector. You might want to consider adding fans if your bulb runs too hot for the LCD screen.
Step 4: If all goes well, this is where you plug your projector in and try it out. It will likely take some fooling around with.