by BOXLIGHT

While you understand the need for a computer projector, it might be difficult to justify the cost of a new piece of equipment. The truth is that a computer projector can actually help save time and money.

For years, slide or overhead projectors have been standard-issue equipment in classrooms everywhere. While these pieces of equipment have helped to bridge the gap between visual and auditory learning styles, they are often difficult to use and maintain, and usually provide mediocre performance at best.

Saving Time and Attention

Computer projectors are one of the most versatile pieces of educational technology available. Aside from numerous other applications, a computer projector allows a teacher or presenter to put their focus where it matters most-with the audience. Instead of spending time fumbling with slick, messy, overhead sheets or changing filmstrips, teachers and presenters can display all the information they want at the click of a button, giving them the opportunity to be more attentive to their audience.

Even when it's not in classroom or boardroom use, a computer projector can go a long way in saving time by doing away with having to prepare overhead or slide transparencies, which can be a process that often involves not only internal resources, but also outside services. With a computer projector, the only tool you'll need to create an engaging presentation is a computer, and, of course, your imagination.

In addition, a computer projector can display almost any image-from simple Word or Excel documents to video or animation-and, as these are all created digitally, the picture will always be crystal clear so even those in the back row can participate. If you're displaying a complicated procedure or want to highlight an important piece of information, many computer projectors offer digital zooming or Picture in Picture features; so enhancing a portion of the screen is fast and simple.

A Budget-conscious Investment

Budgetary constraints are often the main deterrent to purchasing a computer projector, causing many organizations to hang on to their slide or overhead units over time. However, in the long run, a slide or overhead unit-even one that is completely paid for-can end up costing much more than a computer projector.

Consider this: To be used effectively, slide and overhead units depend on transparencies- which can cost $3 to $12 each to produce, depending on whether the service is done internally or requires the help of an outside company. As many presenters and teachers rely on this form of visualization, the monthly cost of creating these slides or transparencies can easily exceed hundreds of dollars.

With a computer projector, teachers, students and presenters can create as many images as needed at no additional charge. The largest cost associated with using a computer projector is the hardware itself, which can be as low as $999. The only recurring cost of owning a computer projector is bulb replacement, which can range from $250 to $450, depending on the model. Most bulbs have an average life expectancy of 2,000 hours, equating to about 20 cents per each hour of usage.

When comparing the expense of purchasing and maintaining a computer projector to preparing materials to use on slide or overhead units, the choice is simple: A computer projector not only is more versatile and user-friendly, but it can, in the long run, save an organization thousands of dollars.

Looking for unique ways to use your projector in your class or presentation? Need data to corroborate the importance of projectors for grant and funding applications? What to learn more about projectors and key questions to ask when shopping for presentation equipment? Download BOXLIGHT's free whitepaper, Incorporating and Purchasing a Projector in an Education Setting.