A DLP projector, or Digital Light Processing projector, is a type of projector that uses a set of chipsets based on optical micro-electro-mechanical technology that involves the use of a digital micromirror device. DLP projectors beam light through a color wheel, reflection mirrors, and finally a lens. The technology was originally developed in 1987 by Larry Hornbeck of Texas Instruments, and the first DLP-based projector was introduced by Digital Projection Ltd in 1997. DLP technology is used in a variety of display applications, including traditional static displays, interactive displays, and non-traditional embedded applications such as medical, security, and industrial uses. DLP projectors are used in standalone projection units for classrooms and businesses, rear projection television sets, and digital signs. They are also used in about 85% of digital cinema projection and in additive manufacturing as a light source in some printers to cure resins into solid 3D objects.
DLP projectors have several advantages, including portability, higher contrast, and a longer lifetime due to the easily replaceable light source. They provide smooth and shake-free image projection, impressive grayscale linearity and geometry, and are capable of 3D projections. While LCD projectors have a sharper image and superior picture quality, DLP projectors are lighter, portable, and considered to be more reliable.
