---   ESTABLISHING A BUDGET   ---


Figuring Out Your Projector Budget
 -- Jim Gelder, Projectorian.com


When you're buying a new car, it's easy to get overwhelmed by features, size and power. But in the end, do you really need a new Hummer, when a second-hand compact model will do just as well? So it is with projectors.


The highest-end models are well equipped with more powerful features than you can imagine, they weigh over a hundred pounds, and they're expensive. There are even ruggedized models designed to operate in combat conditions.


If all those features are necessary, or even if they aren't and you just want to impress people, then as long as you have the budget, go for it. Most of us however, must operate within budgetary constraints.


Fortunately, technology of all sorts tends to advance rapidly and come down in price over time. You can get a lot more features today for less money than it would have cost you ten years ago.


You will probably already have a good idea of about how much you want to spend. If your budget is very tight, you may want to take a look at how often you will be using your projector. If use will be infrequent, you may do better financially to just rent one by the day instead of purchasing one outright.


When working on a budget, second-hand projectors may also be a good option. Many good second-hand models are available with SVGA resolution, which is 800 x 600 pixels, and is good for most basic presentation purposes. The used market is full of SVGA projectors that still have plenty of use in them, which have been traded in by those seeking more power, features, status and general bling.


A major budgetary item though is replacement lamps. These can be expensive, and if you do have an older or second-hand model, you may find yourself replacing lamps more frequently, and quickly consuming all of the money you saved by buying the older, less expensive model.


If you do decide to make a purchase, examine your intended use. Make a list of all the relevant factors, including whether or not you need it to be portable, which features are essential and which ones are not, and what type of room you will be using it in. If you are making presentations in a large auditorium, you will need a bigger budget for a higher-end machine.


The room, the ambient light, how many computers you need to connect to it, and the nature of the presentation itself will all weigh in on what type of features you need, and ultimately, how much you will need to spend.





Like many people, if your need for a projector is business related, you may have to get approval on the spend from the boss. I found a great article that can help you pitch your need and get your funds. If you're looking to compare prices, you may want to hit the cnet.com website or smarter.com.