Work out where the projector goes for your screen, or how big the picture will be from where it has to sit. Includes a brightness check for your room.
Distance is measured from the front of the lens to the screen. Check your projector’s manual for the exact lens offset.
Most lenses zoom, so there’s a range of distances that work. Aim for the middle so you can fine-tune on site.
Every light left on washes out the image. Brighter rooms need many more lumens.
Lens shift moves the image without losing sharpness. Digital keystone softens it.
Throw distance divided by image width. A 1.5 throw ratio projector needs to sit 15 ft back to fill a 10 ft wide screen.
In the spec sheet or manual, usually listed as a range such as 1.39–2.23:1 for zoom lenses.
It depends on screen size and room light. The calculator gives a rough target; a dark room needs far fewer lumens than a bright ballroom.
Laser projectors, fast-fold screens and a tech who sets the throw, focus and color before your guests arrive.