Considering a projector - sensible decision?

meanpeoplesuck

Hey guys, I've had to reword this post a few times to try and make my point clear, so hopefully it makes sense!

My intention :

To set up a nice big high definition screen for gaming and movies.


My problem :

There is only one room in my house where I can set up a nice gaming room. I'm stuck in this room so I have to work with what I've got, and I'm trying to make the best decision.

There is an "ideal" spot for a screen where it would be at a 90 degree angle to the window (which is north facing), and would face the couch. The problem is that a radiator has been built against this very wall. Moving the radiator is not an option.

I am understandably reluctant to start crowding all my home entertainment electronics around the radiator. Things like the Xbox 360 would just be a break-down waiting to happen. I would be worried about the effects of constant heat during winter on a TV. It just isn't practical.

Possible solution :

I am considering using a projector to solve these logistical issues. I would keep all my electronics in a unit beside the couch, on the opposite wall to the radiator. This would keep them safe from any problems caused by excessive heat.

I would then need to set up a screen for the projector over by the radiator. While this isn't ideal, logic tells me that with no electrical insides to go wrong that this is a better idea than putting a TV here.

I could maybe mount it to the wall above the radiator , or have it standing on the floor a few inches out from the radiator. The ceiling is far too high (12 feet) to mount it up there.

The problem with my solution :

The distance from one wall to the other is around 9.5 feet. Taking into account the projector itself, the throw distance will likely end up around the 8 feet mark.

Furthermore, the wall could only hold a screen (including any borders) at a maximum size of around 50/56 inches.

So, I'm asking :

I'm not sure what these figures really mean in the world of projectors. I don't know if they make projectors to satisfy these measurements or if using one in this situation is seen as a total waste.

Am I heading in the right direction with this idea, or am I barking up the wrong tree?

trabpc

I think at 50/56 inches your projector would be wasted. I think projectors look their best over 90 inches.

I plan on installing one soon but plan on a 100" plus screen. It is up in the attic so i should have loads of room!


Id bite the bullet and move your rad.
buy a decent plasma/Lcd, but hey its only one opinion.

dc69

just cover your rad with mdf and drill holes in it,or else put your gear on the other side of the room and get longer cables

slave1

agree with others, 56" projector screen is a waste, would installing a smaller rad give you a greater screen size?