How to Properly Select Projector Bulbs

Projector bulbs are the most commonly replaced products in a projector. Replacement of a projector bulb, or lamp, is extremely easy. Often all that is required to replace the bulb is removing the top cover of the unit, and then simply replacing the old bulb. The main problem with projector bulbs is that often an improper bulb is selected. If a bulb is properly selected based on the information in this article, and in the user manual of the projector, bulb life can be dramatically increased.

First and foremost, you should always check the user manual of your particular projector, to determine what type of projector bulbs your projector requires. Depending on the type of projector you have, you may be able to purchase either Halogen or Metal Halide bulbs. Regardless, you should write down what type of bulb your projector requires, as well as the maximum wattage of the bulb. You are now ready to select your bulb. In addition, your projector may have the ability for optional accessories, such as multiple display units.

Now that you know what type of projector bulbs are available for your projector, you can select the best bulb available. The two main bulb types for LCD based equipment are Halogen and Metal Halide. The main differences between these two bulb types are:

Halogen bulbs are more affordable than Metal Halide bulbs. Halogen bulbs typically cost about $75 (perfect for gifts), whereas Metal Halide bulbs can cost as much as $300.
Halogen bulbs differ from Metal Halide bulbs in lighting effects, Halogen bulbs display a yellowish tint on displayed images, whereas Metal Halide bulbs display a white tint to displayed images.
Metal Halide bulbs will fade before burning out, but Halogen bulbs will completely burn out when the end of their useful life has been reached.
Halogen bulbs typically last about 70 operating hours, whereas Metal Halide bulbs typically last over 1,000 operating hours.
Halogen bulbs are based on older technology, whereas Metal Halide bulbs are based on newer technology.

The main choice factor between these two different bulb types is the cost of the bulb. Since Metal Halide bulbs are superior to Halogen bulbs, the decision to purchase which bulb is really a matter of initial price of the product.

Once the desired bulb has been purchased, the bulb must now be used properly in order to extend its useful life. Most bulbs are not designed to be ran 24/7, so the best way to protect the life of projector bulbs is to operate the projector for only 3-4 hours at a time. If this is not possible, Metal Halide bulbs are the best choice for this high stress environment. In addition, your projector bulb will have a longer life if the bulb is exposed to a well ventilated room, as bulbs will have a significantly shorter life if they are allowed to operate under overly warm conditions. For most projector bulbs, a 75 degree room that is at least 10 feet wide by 15 feet long (and well ventilated) will be sufficient to keep the bulb from overheating. Lastly, the specification on a bulb's operating lifetime is based on a bell curve system. In other words, it is an average of the bulb's life, and some bulbs do not last as long as others. If you have selected the proper bulb, however, the bulb should provide quality entertainment in a home theatre, or what ever environment the bulb is used in. Thanks to the electronics industry, bulb replacement has never been easier, and more rewarding.