Projection Systems

This SOP defines the standards and procedures for preparing, deploying, operating, and resetting projection systems used by Maryland Productions (MP) and Event Revolution (RV). Projection systems require careful planning, alignment, and environmental control to achieve bright, sharp, and distortion-free images.

Projection issues are highly visible and must be prevented through disciplined setup and testing.

Purpose

  • Ensure reliable and high-quality projected images.

  • Prevent damage to projectors and lenses.

  • Standardize projection setup, alignment, and operation.

  • Define safety and handling requirements.

  • Support consistent results across venues and event types.

Who This SOP Is For

  • Video technicians

  • Video leads / V1s

  • Projection specialists

  • Warehouse staff prepping projection equipment

  • Rigging and power teams interfacing with projectors

  • Project Managers overseeing projection scope

  • Authorized freelancers

Anyone handling or operating projectors must follow this SOP.

Scope

This SOP applies to:

  • Front and rear projection systems

  • Projectors and lenses

  • Projection mounts and hardware

  • Screens (fast-fold, fixed, flown)

  • Signal processing and scaling for projection

Rigging hardware is covered under Rigging SOPs.

Projection Safety Fundamentals

  • Secure all projectors and mounts properly.

  • Verify load ratings for flown or mounted projectors.

  • Maintain adequate ventilation.

  • Avoid direct exposure to projector lenses.

  • Protect projectors from moisture and impact.

Projectors are powerful and fragile devices.

Warehouse Prep

  • Inspect projectors for: - Physical damage - Lens integrity - Air filter condition

  • Verify: - Correct lens selection - Firmware versions - Lamp or laser status

  • Test projectors with known content.

  • Pack projectors with: - Proper cases - Lens caps - Power and signal cables

  • Label cases clearly.

No projector leaves the warehouse untested.

System Planning

  • Confirm: - Screen size and aspect ratio - Throw distance - Brightness requirements (ambient light)

  • Select appropriate: - Projector model - Lens type

  • Determine: - Mounting method - Rigging or stacking needs

  • Coordinate with: - Rigging - Power - Content providers

Projection planning must be precise.

Screen Deployment

  • Assemble screens according to manufacturer guidelines.

  • Ensure screens are: - Square - Tensioned properly - Clean and undamaged

  • Verify screen orientation and masking.

Screen quality affects image quality.

Projector Placement & Alignment

Placement

  • Position projectors accurately.

  • Ensure stable mounting.

  • Verify sightlines and clearance.

  • Maintain ventilation space.

Placement errors affect focus and geometry.

Alignment

  • Align projector to screen center.

  • Adjust lens shift carefully.

  • Focus across the entire image.

  • Minimize keystone correction.

Physical alignment beats digital correction.

Signal & Scaling

  • Verify source resolution and frame rate.

  • Set correct scaling and aspect ratio.

  • Manage EDID intentionally.

  • Avoid unnecessary conversions.

Scaling errors degrade image quality.

Testing & Verification

  • Display test patterns.

  • Verify: - Sharp focus - Uniform brightness - Correct color

  • Test backup signal paths if applicable.

  • Verify content playback.

Testing prevents public issues.

Operational Monitoring

  • Monitor image quality throughout the event.

  • Watch for: - Focus drift - Brightness changes - Signal loss

  • Address issues promptly and methodically.

Projection systems can drift over time.

Strike & Reset

  • Power down projectors properly.

  • Allow projectors to cool.

  • Disconnect cables carefully.

  • Inspect equipment during strike.

  • Pack projectors securely.

Improper shutdown damages projectors.

Handling & Storage

  • Transport projectors in protective cases.

  • Keep lenses capped.

  • Store in climate-controlled areas.

  • Maintain organized storage.

Proper handling extends projector lifespan.

Roles & Responsibilities

Video Technicians

  • Deploy and align projectors correctly.

  • Follow setup and safety standards.

  • Report issues immediately.

Video Leads / V1

  • Design and oversee projection systems.

  • Approve alignment and scaling.

  • Coordinate with PMs and other departments.

Warehouse Staff

  • Prep, test, and reset projectors and screens.

  • Maintain lens and accessory inventory.

  • Remove damaged equipment from service.

Project Managers

  • Define projection scope and expectations.

  • Coordinate logistics and scheduling.

  • Support safety-driven decisions.

Quality Control

  • Projectors tested before use.

  • Alignment and focus verified.

  • Signal paths documented.

  • Issues logged post-show.

Projection quality reflects attention to detail.