@The Arts Unit Creative Teachers

Video and projection guide

Teacher resource developed by The Arts Unit

Basic projection guide

Pixels

A picture element or single illuminated point in an image. Each pixel has a colour and are combined to create a digital computer or television picture.

The video 'What is a pixel?' explains how pixels are used to create an image.

What is a pixel?

Duration: 00:50

Aspect Ratio

The shape of the display device as an height to width ratio

  • 4:3 - Video & PC

  • 5:4 - PC

  • 3:2 - 35mm Slide

  • 16:9 - Widescreen & Digital TV

  • 1.85:1 - Cinema

Projection distance

The distance between the projector lens and the screen.

Lens ratio is usually written on the lens and is calculated as PD = R x S

  • PD = Projection distance or throw

  • R = Lens ratio

  • S = Screen width.

A good rule of thumb is to use a ratio of 2:1, that the screen should be placed at a distance from the projector that is 2 times the width of the screen being used.

Keystone

If the projector is ‘off axis’ keystone occurs and the image FOCUS is uneven and DISTORTION occurs.

It is important to make sure the projector is set to its correct placement and is level. Use the keystone buttons on the projector or remote to correct any image distortion.

The video 'Keystone correction' demonstrates this function.

Keystone correction

Duration: 01:13

Connecting all the equipment

The assembly and installation of equipment and accessories is always similar, however the position of equipment and the cabling is often dependent on the purpose of the vision system, as well as the venue and audience specifications. If the event has a large audience and requires audio support you will also need to include an audio PA system in your set up.

When connecting any vision equipment it is important to ensure the power is off and not powered-up until all assembly and installation has occurred.

It is vital to perform regular checks, functionality tests and routine maintenance of vision system equipment and accessories, especially if it is being used after being stored or transported.

Vision system equipment is often positioned in the audience space and can be mobile, in the form of live cameras. The security of this equipment needs to be considered to ensure no loss or damage occurs.

How to live stream an event

Watch the video How to live stream with multiple cameras and a laptop input to assist you in setting up the equipment for live streaming.

How to live stream with multiple cameras and a laptop input

Duration: 12:31

For a more detailed guide on live streaming a school event go to the @The Arts Unit Creative Teachers resource - How to live stream a school event.

You must ensure you apply basic electrical theory to the set-up and operation of vision systems.

Key terms include:

  • energised circuit - electrically connected to or having a source of voltage

  • de-energised circuit - free from any electrical connection to a source (disconnected)

  • voltage - the difference in charge between two points

  • current - the rate at which charge is flowing

  • resistance - a material’s tendency to resist the flow of charge (current).

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