Resolution,what does it actually mean?

Hi, I was wondering if someone could clear up this confusion for me.
If I am going to use a computer to output an image for games and dvd and project onto a 4:3 screen.

What does Interpolated 1280x1024(SXGA)mean.
It is quoted in the spec of one of the machines I am looking at which is 854x480 (Native). Would it be better if I went for a 4:3 800x600 projector, knowing I am mainly going to use it with a 4:3 screen?
Help, Thanks.

 

This means it takes the high resolution image and scales the image down to 854x480 pixels.

If you are mainly using the PJ for 4:3, then yes, it makes sense to get an 800x600 or 1024x768 projector.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monitor_resolution

 

All projectors have a native resolution (in this case 854*480) and most - but not all - have the ability to scale other resolutions either up or down to that native resolution. So, if you fed this projector with a 1280*1024 resolution, it would downscale it to 854*480. Note that 854*480 is not going to be HDReady, for that you need at least 720 lines in a 16:9 aspect ratio although even having this higher resolution does not guarantee HDReady.

 

can i ask why you chose a 4:3 screen for dvd's?

 

Was the 4:3 screen very expensive or just something you happen to have knocking about? If the latter, ditch it and go for a native widescreen PJ. 4:3 is pants for movies...PJ

 

The reason I mentioned 4:3 screens is that the projector I am after has to do several things. I already use a Sanyo PLV-30 as a home cinema projector and love it to bits. I need a second projector which will be used at work and at home,linked up to a computer not DVD player.At work all the screens are 4:3.
My shortlist is now below but I simply can not make up my mind, and am unable to see any in action so I need to buy blind, so to speak.
Benq 6100. 4:3 £470
Acer PD113p 4:3 £495
Acer PD110 16:9 £455
NEC HT410 16:9 £430
If I was to spend a bit more money I could go for the Screenplay 4805 £690, but would it give me high quality images with the computer with games, I know it is outstanding for DVD.

 

Surprised not to see the Benq 5120 in the list...PJ

 

What about the dust problems with the 5120, thats why I discounted it, plus the 6100 is a better projector, is it not.