Shortest throw distance / Smallest image

[SZ99]

I need to project an image that is about 3 inches wide (diag). Therefore, I need a projector that has a very short throw distance and that makes very small images (obviously I am not planning to use it as a regular projector). Also, the technology must be DLP. Does such a product exist or what is the projector that has the shortest throw distance / smallest image?

Thanks for your help,

SZ

[Kevin P]

I'm not sure why you'd want to project an image that small (Barbie's home theater?) , but you might want to see this mini-DLP unit mentioned in this thread.

Full size projectors aren't going to have the ability to focus at that short a throw distance. Maybe with some sort of add-on lens it could be made to work, but I have to ask, why would you want a 3" diagonal projected image from a DLP? You could get a 3" diagonal direct-view LCD panel for pretty cheap.

[SZ99]

I know it sounds a little stupid to do that. The projector would be used to test light-sensitive materials for a science project.

The mini-DLP sounds very interesting (and it seems to be cheap). Thanks a lot.

[Kevin P]

For that application, does the PJ need to focus sharply? Or do you just need a strong blast of light?

If you just need a strong blast of light (with control over color/brightness), any DLP or LCD PJ will do. If you need to project a focused image at that range, you'll need an external lens of some sort.

Depending on what kind of control you need over the projected image, you could even use a cheap slide projector (if this is a school project, see if you can borrow one from the school).

The mini-DLP produces a lot less light than a regular projector. I don't know if that matters for your science project or not.

[Brandon B]

Budget?

BB

[SZ99]

I have to be able to focus sharply. The reason why I want it to be DLP is that I might have to replace the lamp with other light sources (UV, IR). Liquid crystals might not respond well to these wavelengths. Therefore, all I need is a computer-controlled DLP chip with the appropriate optics to project small images.

I would like to find something cheap (below 1000$), especially if I have to change parts in it, but I could get something a little more expensive if I have to.

[Brandon B]

Where are you?

BB

[SZ99]

Toronto, Canada...why?

[Patt]

Ohhh...Mannn.......Excuse me, but I just envisioned "Barbie's Home Theatre".

.................................. :rf

[Stoney]

Might be a good challenge for the DIY guys; Fully functional HT in a doll house. :lol:

[Brandon B]

Checking if you were nearby to Los Angeles.

BB