When buying a projector, you need more than just specs—you also need a solid idea of where it will be placed. Some models have limitations on the distance between the projector and the wall or screen, which directly affects image size. LG has introduced an interesting alternative with its new LG MiniBeam PF1000U, capable of generating a 100-inch image from a distance of just 38 centimeters. Is it time to say goodbye to your LCD TV?
I’ve often been asked how complicated it is to use a projector instead of a traditional flat screen. The connectors, resolutions, format compatibility, and prices are more than up to the task, but if you’re not careful, space—or rather the lack of it—can become a problem. For example, Epson offers an excellent tool for calculating final screen size based on the distance between projector and wall, and ProjectorCentral has a similar resource. In very relaxed terms (this depends on each projector), one meter of distance yields an image between 30 and 33 inches. On the other extreme, a 170-inch screen requires about five meters. So what happens when you don’t have those five meters?
The LG MiniBeam PF1000U
The answer is that you have to settle for a smaller screen, or wait for LG to accelerate availability of its new projector. This little devil (1.9 kg) is Full HD and supports wireless connectivity, so your Blu-ray movies (or their rips on local servers, of course) should look great. However, the real strength is the distance. To create a 100-inch screen, the LG MiniBeam PF1000U needs only 38 centimeters, and if 60 inches is enough, the distance drops to 11 centimeters. LG specifies a maximum brightness of 1,000 lumens and a 30,000-hour LED life.
The LG MiniBeam PF1000U will be available starting in October, but we only have the price in Korean currency, which is about 1,300 euros. I’d like to think that over time, with some similar products from competitors, that number will become more consumer-friendly, but something tells me more than one company will be interested in getting one.
