Projector Lenses

Finding a projector lens for a specific model can seem daunting if that particular model becomes discontinued. Many online retailers sell projector lenses for multiple models. Luckily, more and more companies manufacture generic brands to fit some older projector models.

A generic wide angle 8mm projector lens was created to fit most 8mm projector systems. Wide angle lenses provide up to thirty three percent wider screen coverage than normal standard lenses. Some lenses screw into place while others simply pop in and lock.

Many photography shops include a used projector lens section. Find brands from Apollo, Buhl, Elmo, Sony, Epson, Hitachi, and Sharp among many others. Types of projector lenses include wide angle, standard, long zoom, long throw, short throw, on axis, short zoom and standard zoom. A Sanyo long zoom lens part for PLC-XP45 can cost over three thousand dollars brand new.

Choose an overhead projector lens in varies sizes of 280mm by 280mm and 310mm by 310mm. Make sure you correctly replace the lens since most blurs from overhead projectors tend to come from putting the fresnel lens in upside down. Three different overhead projector lens variations are singlet, doublet and triplet (advanced). The price rises by the increased lens quality. A more advanced lens provides sharper quality than a standard lens.

Follow manufacturer instructions included or online on how to clean and replace a projector lens. Some lens manufacturers sell their own cleaner versions, but a generic brand may work as well. Use a non abrasive projector lens cleaner on a soft and dry piece of cloth to avoid scraps and scratches. You will only need a small amount of cleaner so don't over do it. Spray or pat the cleaner onto the lens. Then gently wipe the lens with a dry cloth using circular motions. Refrain from pressing or scrubbing the lens.

To keep the lens from gathering dust and dirt while not in use invest in a lens cap. Lens caps protect projector lens from breakage, scratches, and dust. Projector lens caps come in metal, hard, or soft plastic or rubber styles. Most lens caps snap, or slide onto the projector lens. Some include a spring accessory to keep the lens from falling off. An In Focus lens cap for a LP750 sells for a little less than eight dollars.

Search for projector lenses and cleaning kits for specific projectors through manufacturer’s home websites and catalogs.