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You've looked at all the options in video - plasma TVs, LCD screens, DLP Projection TVs - but nothing quite compares to the home theater experience of digital front projectors using LCD, DLP, or LCoS technology. There appear to be two components in this option, the screen and the projector. However, there is a third ingredient in this choice of video display and that is the mounting and positioning of the components, particularly the projector. You ask yourself if you'll place the projector on a table or mount it on the ceiling. A better question might be - What are ALL my options in placement of the projector?

Have you considered a motorized ceiling projector lift? It may be the answer for you if any of these situations apply:

• Your screen disappears from view when not in use, so why not the projector?
• You don't have a dedicated home theater room and don't want to look at a projector suspended on a ceiling mount when it's not in use.
• You have a state-of-the art home theater room and want all the components to operate at the touch of a button.
• Ceiling clearance is an issue when you have a low ceiling and the projector is on a mount that doesn't retract.

So you decide to look into this option. Where do you begin? First, either you are an AV professional or are working with one on your installation. You look at your specs concerning available space, location, dimensions and weight of the projector, etc. Your next step is to select a motorized lift manufacturer. One consideration in doing so will be the type of mechanism and operating system you prefer or need in your particular application. There are scissor lifts, chain driven lifts, and rack and pinion lifts. What type of control system do you prefer? Some lifts operate with radio frequency, some with infrared, and then others use dry contact closure, or a 12 volt trigger. You must also find out if the lift needs periodic maintenance such as lubrication of gears. Does the motor used have safety features such as thermal overload protection to prevent the motor from overheating? Do you have a choice in how to mount the projector to the lift to get the correct angle of image from the projector to the screen?

After you've sorted through all the features and contacted lift manufacturers for pricing and product information, you're ready to order. Before you make the final decision of what to buy you must be satisfied with three important elements: price, technical support both during and after the sale, and product performance. The lowest price isn't a bargain if customer service and product reliability aren't there. The highest price doesn't necessarily mean good customer service and reliability are included. Ask the right questions, and don't be satisfied if you don't get the right answers.

Choosing a motorized projector lift is made easier when you deal with a knowledgeable and courteous staff and a reliable, high quality product. Then just sit back, push a button, and pass the popcorn.

LIFT-TECH manufactures rack and pinion motorized projector lifts that include your choice of radio remote, infrared remote, or low/voltage contact closure control system. LIFT-TECH is located in Valencia, California. For more information contact them at 661-702-9055. Visit the website at www.televisionlifts.com and view the video library to learn more about the company and to see some of the products in operation.