FAQ's
General FAQ's
Q: I am interested in getting a projection screen for my 20x20’ conference room. There is a lot of overhead light but accurate color reproduction is very important to me. I am also considering a UST projector. Is there some general guideline for getting a product that would be happy with?
There are a few good options for you to use in your conference room and yes, there is a general guideline to follow that makes selecting the screen a fairly easy task. Remember the acronym. PEG or (Purpose – Environment - Gear). Let’s use PEG to answer your question.
In the question above, it must reject overhead (ceiling light) while maintaining excellent picture/color performance I a bright room. We have a few screens that can handle this but since you are considering a UST projector, I recommend the Aeon CLR® since it is designed specifically for use with ultra-short throw projectors. If you have a preference for a motorized variety, we are intending to launch a motorized “roll-up” version next year (2019). We also have motorized ALR/CLR® variants for our standard long-throw projectors available now.
- Purpose – This will be a business environment with a focus on color reproduction. Elite has a selection of matte white or ambient light rejecting materials that are ISF certified. However, even our non ISF materials can help you achieve that superb picture quality as long as the projector is properly calibrated. Depending on preference, either a fixed-frame or retractable screen would be appropriate.
- Environment – If the environment has full control over ambient lighting, a matte white material will work well. Most business environments have overhead lighting (ceiling light) or simply put, making the whole place dark for any reason is just inconvenient. For this matter, an ambient light rejecting screen material is appropriate. Ask about Elite’s variety of ALR (ambient light rejecting) or CRL® (ceiling light rejecting®) material options.
- Gear – Since projection is a 2-piece video display, it is essential that the projector and screen’s performance specs complement one another. The projector and screen should have the same aspect ratio (screen or image shape). If the projector is a standard “long” throw, short throw “ST”, or ultra-short throw “UST”, there is a specific screen material that is best suited for your specific projector.
In the question above, it must reject overhead (ceiling light) while maintaining excellent picture/color performance I a bright room. We have a few screens that can handle this but since you are considering a UST projector, I recommend the Aeon CLR® since it is designed specifically for use with ultra-short throw projectors. If you have a preference for a motorized variety, we are intending to launch a motorized “roll-up” version next year (2019). We also have motorized ALR/CLR® variants for our standard long-throw projectors available now.
Q: What are the main aspects (ie. cost and features) that I should use in comparing the various projection screen brands?
Although there are many manufacturers that cover a variety of retail and integrator sales channels, product quality, features and pricing are still the driving critera for increased projection screen sales. The general pricing matrix that most follow is that a good projection screen equates to roughly 1/3 to ½ of the cost of a projector. Comparative features include the screen’s ability to provide clear color reproduction, contrast and a level of brightness that is suitable to the environment in which it will be used. Equally important is the product’s overall flawless quality and reliablility as well as included features such as IR/RF and Ethernet controls along with other accessories.
Q: What size of screen should I get for my room?
A: The best way to do it is to make sure the screen's diagonal size matches the distance to you first row of seating. There is not set standard size for a room, just consider the seating location of you and your guests. Your material should allow everyone to comfortably sit and watch without craning their necks back or shifting their eyes from side to side. Generally, 84" - 106" diagonal sizes are appropriate for your typical residential setup.
Q: Should I get a 1:1, 4:3, 16:9, 16:10 or 2.35:1 format screen?
It depends entirely what your intentions are but here are the general format uses to help you out.
- 1:1 format: If you use traditional Slideshow/OHP (Overhead Projector), Document Camera, and commercial projector presentations. These are most commonly used in schools, government facilities, and houses of worship.
- 4:3 NTSC format: PC software, Commercial Presentations (if your projector is SVGA or XGA native resolution), Classroom Training, and Gaming.
- 16:9 HDTV format: Home Theater Movies and Gaming
- 16:10 format: PC software, video games, video editing, presentations from notebooks with WXGA or WUGA native output.
- 2.35:1 Cinemascope format: Strictly Home Theater movies.
Q: What is the best projection screen option for a ultra/short-throw projector?
Ultra/Short-throw projectors require a flat projection surface since the projector’s light is closer to the material. Non-tensioned screen materials may exhibit minor wave or curls which may be more pronounced if using an ultra/short-throw projector.
We recommend using a Fixed Frame Screen with PVC such as our CineWhite® flexible material which will provide adequate tension throughout the entire projection surface.
We recommend using a Fixed Frame Screen with PVC such as our CineWhite® flexible material which will provide adequate tension throughout the entire projection surface.
Q: What screens do short throw projectors work with?
AKIA's non-tensioned screens are great with standard throw projectors, but just like any non-tensioned projector screen, we don’t recommend using it with an ultra/short throw projector. Non-tensioned screens are not completely flat and while it may have little, if any, perceivable effect with a standard projector’s image, it can distort ultra/short throw imagery. We recommend purchasing Elite's tab-tensioned screens utilizing the CineWhite® or CineWhite® UHD materials or any of Elite's fixed frame screens if an ultra/short throw projector is required.
Q: I have a 16:9 (HDTV) home theater projector but I'd like to have a presentation that has a 2.35:1 (Cinemascope) aspect ratio on a 2.35:1 projection screen. Do I need an anamorphic lens for this?
For the best possible results, an anamorphic lens is recommended. However, it is possible to get a 2.35:1 screen format as long as you can live with the "black bars" created when a mismatched 16:9 native aspect ratio projecto is set up to fit a wider projection screen format. It is simply a matter of personal preference.
Q: How high should I hang the projector screen?
As a rule, it is recommended to ensure that the center of the screen is in alignment with the eye level of those seated in the first row of a graduated Home Theater seating layout. This will provide the best levels of ergonomic stability, and will not negatively affect the vantage point of the following rows as their increased distance from the screen will provide a comfortable viewing position as well.
AKIA Screens FAQ's
Q: What is the Min. and Max. Operating/Storage temperatures for the AKIA Projection Screen?
Operating Temperature: +32°F to +113°F ( 0°C to +45°C)
Storage Temperature: -14°F to +158°F ( -10°C to +70°C).
Storage Temperature: -14°F to +158°F ( -10°C to +70°C).
Q: How do I clean my AKIA Screen projection screen material?
All AKIA Screens projection materials can be cleaned with mild soap and water using a soft terry cloth. For stain removals, stronger cleaning agent may be used. Please use with caution as strong cleaning agents may remove the coating screen material and cause permanent damage.
Electric Screens FAQ's
Q: Can I increase the Top Black Border on my screen?
A: No, your screen’s Top Black border has been set to deploy to its full extent. Attempting to increase will damage the motor and void your warranty with AKIA Screens
Q: What are the amps/watts of your Electric Screens?
Q: Are AKIA’s electric screens compatible with Harmony remotes?
A: Most of AKIA’s electric screen products are compatible with Harmony remotes and are in their database. The only electric screens series that are not compatible with Harmony remotes are the Starling and Starling Tab-Tension Series (Versions 1 and 2).
New Elite Screens series may not appear in the Harmony database, but you can simply select the VMAX2 series as the IR codes are identical for all series.
Click here to visit the Harmony website for further assistance with programming your remote with our electric screens.
New Elite Screens series may not appear in the Harmony database, but you can simply select the VMAX2 series as the IR codes are identical for all series.
Click here to visit the Harmony website for further assistance with programming your remote with our electric screens.
Accessories FAQ's
Q: What is the frequency of your RF remote?
A: The frequency of the RF remote is 433MHz
Q: How do I sync my RF remote to my AKIA electric screen
A: If your RF remote control does not work with your screen, try the following to get in synced. See below for instructions. Make sure new batteries or working batteries are in your RF remote control before proceeding with the steps.
For V 2.0 electric screens.
The version number can be found on the remote control, the sticker on the screen's end cap, or the packing box.
For V 1.4-1 and below (ex 1.3, 1.4, 1.4-1)
For V 2.0 electric screens.
The version number can be found on the remote control, the sticker on the screen's end cap, or the packing box.
- Unplug your screen from the power outlet
- Hold the UP button on your RF remote
- While holding the UP button, plug the screen back to the power outlet
- Wait 5 seconds and then release the UP button
- Now you can use your RF remote
For V 1.4-1 and below (ex 1.3, 1.4, 1.4-1)
- Press & hold the Up button on your RF remote control so the LED light turns on
- While holding the UP button on your RF remote, simultaneously push the small button located on the circuit board. In some cases, you can press this button through a hole on the end cap. (Please note you may need a small sharp object to achieve this.)
- Continue to hold the UP button for an additional 3 seconds.
- After 3 seconds, your RF remote should now by synced to control your screen.
Installation FAQ's
Q: How would I synchronize the up/down function of my electric screen with my projectors power cycle?
A: To ensure that your projector can support a trigger application, please be sure to:
- a. Reviewing your projectors user manual.
- b. Contact the manufacturer of your projector.
Q: How high should I hang the projector screen?
A: As a rule, it is recommended to ensure that the center of the screen is in alignment with the eye level of those seated in the first row of a graduated Home Theater seating layout. This will provide the best levels of ergonomic stability, and will not negatively affect the vantage point of the following rows as their increased distance from the screen will provide a comfortable viewing position as well.
Q: Where do I place the center support bar for a fixed frame screen?
A: Center support bar for larger size fixed frame screens goes inside the top of the groove located on the back of the frame.
Q: I just purchased an AKIA electric screen and need to adjust the drop. How can I achieve this?
A: All AKIA electric screens have been set to factory settings that are not designed for adjusting. If an adjustment is necessary we can walk you through the procedure or send you the instructions, however they will be used at your discretion and AKIA Screens is not liable for any damages that may result from over-adjusting. Vertical limit adjustment is not recommended since the damages can be permanent and irreversible. Adjusting the vertical limit also voids the standard AKIA Screens warranty.