[SML] Video projectors or Ellipsoids for outside projection?

[Greg Bierly]

See if you can find a Rosco ImagePro.  Then you can print your own gobos to be used in a S4.  Might need replaced every couple of days but for the cost of a transparency sheet.  Couple it with a Selecon Pacific and you can reduce the heat at the gate and make the transparencies last longer and use a brighter lamp.  Be aware there might be zoning issues with the size of the projection.  I would assume the projection would be considered “signage”.  If you wind up with a video projector, video billboards have to meet certain image requirements due to local, state and federal requirements.  (i.e. no moving images, delay between change in still images, etc.)

Best of luck

Greg

> On Aug 20, 2024, at 12:39 AM, Joe via Stagecraft <stagecraft at theatrical.net> wrote:
> 
> I volunteer for a theater that has no real signage outside, even though they are fairly close to a major interstate. I am thinking about using either a video projector, or a custom gobo in an ellipsoidal to list their upcoming shows.
> 
> Their building is visible from the interstate, and there is little lighting in the area. I just did some testing tonight, and think that either a video projector or an ellipsoidal would work. Attached is a quick rendering of what I am thinking about.  Basically, making a "dog house" for whatever we use for the projection, to protect it from the elements.  Note that this is in a business area where it is mostly vacant after 5pm. And no one would be at the theater to baby-sit this projector.
> 
> The ellipsoidal would have the expense of a custom gobo for each show. But at $25 for a basic metal one, that is easy to swallow. We have a BUNCH of these old fixtures, including long-throw ones.
> 
> I can get used long-throw video projectors WXGA at 5,000 lumens, and with HDMI input for around $75-$100.  Of course, we can change signage on a whim. If I wanted more brightness, I could use multiple projectors.  To control the image, perhaps I can use a Roku type device. Though, on/off is a bigger challenge. Though, these typically have serial interfaces, and I am uncertain how that can automatically be controlled.
> 
> I am seeking advice about how well a video projector would survive in this sort of setting.  Even if there is a "doghouse" with a glass front, I imagine it would experience some high humidity.
> 
> I am sure the old-school ellipsoidals would survive the "dog house". Anyone have experience with this?  How about the construction of the housing?
> 
> -Joe 
> 
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