Screen Surfaces or Fabric Types

 

Projection screens come in a variety of fabrics and surface types which are designed to be used in different projection settings.  We can help you find just the right one to meet your projection needs and your budget. Here is a list of the various screen fabric types and their recommended uses.

What is Gain?

Every industry has standards they use to measure product performance. Gain is the measure of brightness compared to a block of magnesium carbonate. A more familiar comparision is with a matte white projection screen. Most matte white screens have a fairly uniform light distribution pattern with gain of approximately 1.0. Screens that appear brighter on axis are concentrating the reflected light in a narrower area: the gain may be 2.5 on axis (straight on) but 0.5 at 60o to the side.

Matte White:  The standard screen surface. A matte white vinyl reflective surface laminated to a woven textile base material. This surface diffuses projected light in all directions, so the projected images can be seen from any angle in the room. Colors remain bright with no shifts in hue. Generally recommended for use with overhead projectors and other high light output projection devices. Matte white screens do require ambient light in the audience area to be controllable.
Gain Factor: 1.1

Glass Beaded: This surface is made by embedding microscopic spherical glass beads in a matte white base material. The glass beads reflect the majority of projected light back to the light source. A glass beaded screen surface achieves a higher gain by reflecting more of the projected light back along the projection axis. The projected image is significantly brighter than matte white but only within an approximatly 90-degree viewing area. While a glass beaded screen will tolerate a higher level of ambient light in the audience area, it is not recommended for ceiling mounted projectors because it does reflect light back to the light source. The superior reflectivity of the material makes it desirable for use with low luminance projection devices. Not recommended for areas where screen will be subject to abuse or soiling.
Gain Factor: 2.5

High Power/Cleanable Glass Beaded:  A technological breakthrough, combines the reflectivity of a glass beaded surface with the ability to clean the surface. This smooth textured surface provides the highest gain of all type of screen surfaces with a moderate viewing angle. Washable, flame retardant and mildew resistant.
Gain Factor: 2.8

Silver Lenticular/Super Wonder-Lite:  These screens consist of an aluminized silver vinyl reflective surface laminated to a textile backing. The surface is embossed with a vertical rib pattern which directs the vast majority of projected light back to the light source. This type of screen is extremely bright, but only within a relatively narrow viewing area. It is not available on all screen styles since this material must be tensioned.
Gain Factor: 2.8

Pearlescent/Cleanable Glass Beaded:  A screen surface of unsupported vinyl to create a very smooth surface for the Pearlescent coating that delivers high reflectivity and brightness without loss of image quality or resolution. This surface can be washed with soap and water. It is also flame retardant and mildew resistant.
Gain Factor: 2.0

Rear Projection Screens:  Rear Projection screens require a translucent, neutral grey surface for high transmission and low reflecting values to deliver the best pictures. Our screens yield excellent color rendition, contrast of images and the widest viewing angle. The materials are suited for both lace and grommet or snap button type screens, but do need to be tensioned. The vinyl is sturdy, yet flexible. May be cleaned with mild soap and water or denatured alcohol.
Gain Factor: 2.3

Call us with room size, projection devices and format. We can specify the right screen for your needs.

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