A projector screen is used when either still or moving images want to be seen. Portable projector screens are always a light colored material, white is the most popular and the most common. Although portable screens are always flat, this does not have to be the cases with larger, fixed screens such as those in movie theatres. These larger screens are curved to help with various viewing angles. The two basic types of screens are those where the image is projected on the front of the screen and those where the image is rear projected.
Portable projection screens are popular for home use and they are always front projector. Not only are these screens white, the material is opaque which stops light from coming through the screen.
A front projector screen does not have to be sophisticated, any white or light gray material will suffice. For many homes the image will simply be projected onto a large bed sheet or even the wall. Obviously this is a very inexpensive way to project home movies but the results are less than perfect. Most portable projector screens are made from vinyl, this material is strong, difficult to tear, flexible and extremely reflective; all the attributes of a great screen. Portable screens can be brought out of storage and set up in just a matter of minutes and when the showing is over, it can be rolled into its own canister for storage. There is no need for any support mechanism for the screen as it comes complete with a tripod stand.
Although a back projection screen is rarely seen in the home, they are available. The screen is different in material and material properties. By definition, light must pass through the screen, common colors for rear projection screens are black and gray.
Portable projection screens are often found in a commercial setting as they are ideal for making business presentations where slides or other projected information is to be presented to those in the room. As they have their own tripod and support, there is no need to be concerned about hanging it from the wall. The size of the image that is projected is based on the distance from the projector, it is not necessary to fill the whole screen.
