Trying to figure out possible projector for Ravenloft Game Maps

[sharkgrrl2000]

Hey Guys

We're currently playing Expedetion to Castle Ravenloft, and we want to play it using all the maps. But printing them all seems to be really pricey. So I'm thinking of using a projector for the map images. I'm not quite sure what is the lowest resolution I can get away with to play with the maps.... Any thoughts or Suggestions? I don't really want to spend more than $150 on a projector.... I've found a lot of projectors on craigslist but I don't know anything about projectors so I don't want to end up buying something and then it doesn't work

Thanks!

 

[Alan Shutko]

There are a few things to think about when you pick projectors.

1. Where are you projecting it? Are you projecting it on a wall, or on the table?
2. How do you want to mount it? Are you going to mount it to the ceiling, or use mirrors to bounce things around?
3. Given the size of your room and the place you can put the projector, how far away can you put the projector? Some projectors can only focus so close.
4. How big of a screen/map do you want? This will help you pick what kind of zoom you need, and whether you need a long throw or short throw projector (usually short throw).
5. How bright is the room? If it's bright-sunlight when you're playing, you'll need a brighter projector than if you play in normal to dim evening lighting.

Last time I did this, we had an 800x600 projector I got around 10 years ago mounted to the ceiling, and it was pretty good. We could have used a bigger map, but the pj could only zoom so far.