LCD Projector Lamps
Projector lamps, also called projector lamp bulbs, are the most commonly replaced components of projectors. One of the most common types of projectors are LCD based projectors. LCD projectors work by shining a powerful lamp behind a LCD screen, and then enlarging that display through the use of several different lenses inside of the projector. Due to the high resolution capabilities of LCD projectors, LCD projectors are becoming more affordable for most applications. Most LCD projectors have several different replacement lamps which can be purchased, depending on individual specifications of the bulb. Replacement lamps can be purchased at most stores, ranging from electronics stores to office supply stores.
The two main types of projector lamps are Halogen and Metal Halide. The main differences between Halogen and Metal Halide are price, lighting, and lamp life. Halogen lamps are more affordable than Metal Halide lamps, typically costing only $75 per lamp. Metal Halide lamps last longer than Halogen lamps, ranging between 1000 and 2000 hours, whereas Halogen lamps typically only last about 70 hours. Halogen lamps and Metal Halide lamps also differ based on their lighting characteristics as well. Halogen lamps typically give off a yellowish tint to the displayed image, whereas Metal Halide lamps typically give off a whitish tint to the displayed image. In addition, Halogen lamps typically have less lumens (a measurement of light intensity) than Metal Halide lamps. One disadvantage with Metal Halide lamps is that they are prone to displaying dimmer images towards the end of a lamp life, as opposed to Halogen lamps, which burn at a constant light intensity.
The stated operating hours of projector lamps can vary widely, depending on several factors. First, when a lamp manufacturer determines the life of a given lamp, they do so based on a bell curve system. What this means is that not all lamps are capable of burning as long as others, even if they are the same exact model. Instead, the average life of a particular model of a lamp is what is displayed with the specifications of that lamp. Secondly, the operating temperature of the LCD projector can have a large impact on the lamp life. A poorly ventilated environment, such as a small studio apartment, can drastically decrease the life of a lamp. Instead, proper ventilation should always be considered when operating a projector. Lamp life can also be decreased due to overuse. Most projectors are only designed to be operated up to three or four hours per day, deviating from this design will drastically reduce the lifespan of a lamp.
No matter which replacement projector lamps are used for a given projector, LCD projectors are becoming more and more affordable. With newer Metal Halide lamps, LCD lamp replacement is becoming more affordable for constant use environments. In everyday environments such as home theatre and home video environments, to executive boardroom meetings- the LCD projector is a valuable asset. Selecting the proper replacement projector lamp will provide longer lamp life, more economic lamp replacement, and proper lighting.