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- For USA only (800) 875-5907Choosing the right video projector means ensuring a successful immersive experience. This guide will help you make this crucial decision, combining technical aspects with practical advice to help you invest wisely.
Video mapping (or projection mapping) transforms objects, buildings or sets into dynamic media. This now mature technology has a wide range of applications:
Unlike simple video projection, mapping requires extreme precision and perfect adaptation to the geometry of the targeted surfaces, hence the crucial importance of the video projector.
To help you make the right choice, and given the range of situations and video projectors available, we’ve put together this guide.
All the questions you might have will be answered.
Before even considering the technical specifications, ask yourself these questions:
Each of these factors will directly influence your choice, and neglecting them could lead to technical incompatibilities or disappointing performance.
These preliminary questions will give you a better idea of your needs and help you choose a projector that is suited to your specific project.
The wrong projector can compromise even the simplest creative content. The consequences of a poor choice include
Conversely, a well-chosen projector becomes an invisible ally, allowing the content to express itself fully without any apparent technical limitations.
So what should you look out for when making your purchase?
Brightness and resolution are the first criteria to consider when making your choice.
The brightness of a video projector, measured in ANSI lumens, is an essential criterion. The larger the surface to be projected or the more exposed it is to ambient light, the more powerful the projector needs to be.
For example, a mapping on the façade of a cathedral requires at least 20,000 lumens, while an indoor installation can be satisfied with 5,000 lumens.
To determine your precise requirements, use this simplified formula:
Lumens required = Projection area (m²) × Ambient lighting factor × Area factor
Where
You can also use the manufacturers’ online help to make these calculations more accurately.
Here is a list of the brands we recommend for professional use:
For well-controlled indoor environments:
For mapping on dark or absorbent materials, increase these values by at least 30%.
Outdoor projections require considerably more power:
Pour les mappings monumentaux, il est souvent préférable d’utiliser plusieurs projecteurs synchronisés plutôt qu’un seul très puissant. Vous retrouverez de la redondance et de la flexibilité.
Ambient light is enemy number 1 in video mapping.
Here are a few ideas on how to get a decent result despite this light:
Resolution influences the sharpness of the projected content. For accurate rendering over a large surface, choose WUXGA (1920×1200) or 4K, which avoid the pixelation effect.
Current standards for professional video mapping include :
For very large installations, 8K projectors are beginning to appear on the market, albeit at prices that are still prohibitive for most projects.
Resolution should be chosen according to viewing distance:
Calculate the resulting pixel density (pixels per inch) to assess perceived sharpness at different distances.
Beyond the figures, consider these practical aspects:
The projection ratio determines the size of the image obtained as a function of the distance from the projector to the surface.
The projection ratio is calculated as follows :
Projection ratio = Projection distance / Image width
For example, a projector with a ratio of 1.5:1 placed 6 metres away will produce an image 4 metres wide.
For complex installations, use this inverse formula to determine the optimum placement:
Projection distance = Projection ratio × Desired image width
Professional projectors generally indicate a range of ratios, for example ‘1.2-1.8:1’, indicating the possibilities for adjustment via the zoom.
The professional market offers different categories of lenses:
For professional projectors, lenses can be interchangeable, offering greater flexibility.
For permanent architectural mappings, this functionality becomes almost mandatory.
The choice of light source has a direct impact on projection quality, maintenance and total cost of ownership.
Advantages :
Disadvantages:
For one-off events with a limited budget, this technology remains relevant despite its limitations.
Advantages :
Disadvantages :
LED solutions are particularly well suited to permanent installations of moderate size and museum environments.
Laser technology currently represents the ultimate in professional mapping:
Advantages :
Disadvantages :
For permanent architectural mapping or prestigious events, the investment in laser technology is fully justified by its performance and reliability.
The choice between DLP (Digital Light Processing) and LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) has a considerable influence on the final rendering.
Advantages of DLP for responsiveness and contrast
DLP technology, developed by Texas Instruments, uses micro-mirrors to reflect light:
Strengths for mapping :
Weaknesses :
DLP technology is particularly recommended for high-contrast projections or highly dynamic content.
LCD technology uses liquid crystals to filter light:
Strengths for mapping :
Weaknesses :
LCD/3LCD is an excellent choice for projections requiring high brightness and faithful colour reproduction.
For professional projects, the distinction between mono-DLP and tri-DLP is fundamental:
For professional video mapping, tri-DLP solutions are generally the industry standard, despite their higher cost.
Geometric correction enables the projection to be adapted to irregular or non-perpendicular surfaces.
Warping solutions fall into two categories:
Built-in warping :
Software warping :
For professional installations, the use of a video mapping media server is essential to manage projection, calibration and special effects. Our solution offers centralised content management, perfect synchronisation with projectors and increased flexibility for immersive environments.
The keystone corrects distortion when the projector is not perpendicular to the surface:
Caution: Keystone correction involves digital reprocessing, which can slightly degrade image quality. Minimise its use whenever possible.
Lens shift allows the image to be moved without physically moving the projector or distorting the image.
For professional installations, look for these minimum capabilities:
The values are expressed as a percentage of the height or width of the image. A vertical lens shift of 50% moves the image up or down by half a screen height.
The best strategy is to :
This approach preserves image quality while offering the flexibility required for installation.
For large-scale projections, several projectors are often required, involving edge blending.
Projector-integrated blending :
Blending via media server or dedicated software:
For successful professional blending:
Well executed blending is completely invisible to the viewer.
The refresh rate determines the fluidity of animated content and influences multi-projector synchronisation.
Frame synchronisation is crucial for multi-projector installations:
Lack of synchronisation can create visible tearing effects and disrupt the immersive experience.
Powerful projectors generate significant heat which needs to be managed effectively.
Fan noise can be problematic in certain contexts:
The heat generated must also be considered:
For intensive projection or in hot environments:
Insufficient cooling drastically reduces the lifespan of equipment and can lead to untimely shutdowns.
The choice of connections directly influences signal quality and installation flexibility.
HDMI, DisplayPort, SDI and HDBaseT
HDMI :
DisplayPort :
SDI (Serial Digital Interface) :
HDBaseT :
For complex installations requiring long distances:
Network capabilities make it easy to manage projectors in complex installations.
Professional projectors support a range of control protocols:
Professional installations benefit from :
Network integration also enables remote firmware updates, essential for large fleets.
The investment should be proportionate to the needs and the usage context.
These solutions are suitable for small museums, art galleries, and corporate events in controlled indoor environments.
Recommended specifications:
Representative models:
Suitable for cultural events, medium-scale architectural mappings, and national museums.
Recommended specifications:
Representative models:
For large international events, monumental mappings, and prestigious permanent installations.
Recommended specifications:
Representative models:
| Epson EB-PU2010B (Museum) | Christie DWU880-GS (Restaurant) | Panasonic PT-RQ25KU (Fitness) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brightness | 10,000 lumens | 8,800 lumens | 20,000 lumens |
| Resolution | WUXGA + 4K Enhancement | WUXGA | True 4K |
| Technology | Laser | Laser phosphor | Laser |
| Throw ratio | 1.44:1 – 2.32:1 | 1.2:1 – 2.13:1 | Variable |
| Contrast | High | High | High |
| Light source lifespan | Up to 20,000 h | Up to 20,000 h | Up to 20,000 h |
| Media server compatibility | Optimal | Optimal | Optimal |
| Advantages | High precision | Silent, compact | Ultra bright, durable |
| Disadvantages | High initial cost | Slightly limited brightness | Significant investment |
Specifications:
Why is it suitable for museums?
The Epson EB-PU2010B is ideal for museum environments thanks to its high brightness and precise resolution. It delivers detailed images on complex surfaces while ensuring faithful color reproduction. Its laser technology offers minimal maintenance, which is essential for permanent installations. Additionally, its interchangeable lens provides increased flexibility to adapt projection to different configurations.
Specifications:
Why is it suitable for immersive restaurants?
The Christie DWU880-GS is perfect for immersive restaurants thanks to its silent operation and laser phosphor technology, which ensures exceptional color stability. Its high brightness delivers sharp projections even in moderately lit environments. The motorized zoom makes installation easier in confined spaces, while its compatibility with our media server ensures smooth management of immersive content.
Specifications:
Why is it suitable for fitness centers?
The Panasonic PT-RQ25KU is designed for dynamic environments such as fitness centers. Its exceptional brightness guarantees optimal visibility even in brightly lit spaces or with constant movement. Its True 4K resolution delivers unmatched precision, ideal for motivating and immersive projections. The laser technology ensures durability and reduced maintenance, while its compatibility with your media server allows for easy integration of interactive or synchronized content.
The professional installation of a mapping system involves rigorous procedures.
To ensure optimum image quality:
Tools such as the Klein K-10, X-Rite i1Pro or Colorimetry Research CR-100 are references in the field.
For installations using several projectors:
Calibration should be checked and adjusted regularly, particularly in the first few weeks of installation.
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and reliability of your installations.
Floodlights :
Laser/LED projectors:
For optimum management :
To avoid unpleasant surprises, here are some frequent mistakes:
Underestimating brightness: a projector with insufficient lumens will produce a dull image, especially outdoors.
Overlooking the throw ratio: without properly calculating the distance and image size, the content may be poorly framed.
Forgetting geometric correction: if the projector lacks keystone or warping functions, the image may be distorted on uneven surfaces.
Solutions :
Solutions :
The video mapping sector is benefiting from several significant advancements:
Pure RGB laser: Projectors using pure RGB laser (with three separate laser sources) offer an unrivaled color gamut, reaching up to 98% of the Rec.2020 color space. These systems deliver more vivid colors and highly impactful projections, particularly well-suited for demanding artistic works.
8K projectors: The arrival of 8K projectors (7680×4320 pixels) opens new possibilities for very large surfaces and projections where audiences are positioned close to the image. However, this extreme resolution requires a fully adapted infrastructure (servers, bandwidth, native content).
Automated calibration: Camera-based calibration systems are becoming more common, using computer vision algorithms to automatically map complex surfaces. These technologies greatly reduce setup time and improve accuracy on challenging geometries.
Standardized IP interfaces: The shift toward AV over IP infrastructures is making signal integration and distribution over long distances easier. Standards like NDI, SDVoE, or ST2110 allow for more flexible and scalable installations.
Several trends will shape the future of this discipline.
Integration with augmented reality
The convergence between projection mapping and AR makes it possible to create hybrid experiences where projected content interacts with virtual elements viewed via mobile devices or smart glasses. This approach opens up entirely new narrative possibilities.
Real-time interactive mapping
Advances in real-time engines (such as Unreal Engine or Unity) enable projections that instantly respond to the environment and audience. Content generated or modified live transforms mapping from a linear medium into an interactive experience.
Miniaturization and mobility
The development of compact laser projectors and battery-powered systems makes temporary and mobile installations easier. These solutions open up mapping to new contexts: pop-up events, spontaneous urban interventions, or mobile scenography.
Artificial intelligence and adaptive mapping
AI is starting to integrate into mapping workflows, automatically optimizing content according to surfaces, adjusting brightness to ambient conditions, or generating architecture-specific content in real time.
Selecting a projector for professional mapping requires a thorough analysis of your specific needs. Beyond technical specifications, several factors are essential. Project suitability is paramount: the best projector is the one that precisely meets your installation, environment, and content requirements.
The total cost of ownership, including purchase, maintenance, energy consumption, and depreciation, must be assessed for a complete financial perspective. Prioritize modular solutions, such as interchangeable lenses, to safeguard your investment against future technological developments.
Integration within your technical ecosystem is also crucial to ensure compatibility with your existing systems and creative workflows. Lastly, support and service — particularly the availability of spare parts and the responsiveness of technical assistance — are just as important as the hardware specifications.
In short, by considering project suitability, total cost of ownership, scalability, technical ecosystem, and support, you’ll be equipped to make an informed, long-lasting decision.
Need advice? Contact us for personalized guidance and find the right equipment for your installation!