Are those lenses you put over your TV to make them a projector work? pics look good, they go up to 175"?

Question

I'm currently looking into buying a projection tv for my home, and came across these itmes on Ebay. What it is, is a lens that you put over any normal tv, and it projects a much bigger picture from that. These things are running $5-$20, so i figured it's too good to be true.

Anyone familiar with this, or have one? or any suggestions on a projector?

Thanks very much.

Answer 1

It's pretty much BS.

Take a magnifying glass and read a newspaper.  While it does look bigger - you see the rough newsprint grain, smears on the ink, etc.

Front projectors used to be $15,000 items. Now because of DLP and LCD advances, decent $1,000 units are available.

Research and go with a real front projector.

Answer 2

The kits on ebay just have the lens, you have to build a box and and be able to play your tv upside down.  

http://www.worldtvpc.com/projector/

and looking around.. you can buy the lens for less than the lens and plans on ebay.   It's just a Fresnel lens.  The link above has free instructions.

Answer 3

You get what you pay for. If they were any good everyone would use them.

Look for a real projector and get a GOOD big picture ... not just big.