[museav]

Originally Posted by codered11343

I have three questions.
First, I'm going to be using a small, home projector for some projections during a show and after doing the math with where I'm going to hang it, it may not be a large enough projection. Is there any to "jerry-rig" a separate lens from a fresnel or S4 or from anything to make the image larger?

Theoretically it may be possible, but it is in no way practical. What are the throw distance and image size involved and what is the screen? And since that is a compact, portable $900 desktop projector, have you verified that the projector can produce an acceptable image of the size desired and with the actual screen and lighting conditions?

Second, Is there any software thats designed for projections that can give more effects and freedom then PowerPoint or OpenOffice Impress?

There are many presentation software options, what specifically are you trying to do? And how much do you have to spend on any software?

Third, What's the best way to stop the ambient light that comes out of a projector without a physical barrier? Is the a setting thats standard with most projectors?

The best standard setting to prevent ambient light is "off". Seriously, the ambient light from the projector is sort of inherent, if you decrease the brightness it might drop but so will you image brightness. If you use physical barriers, be sure they do not interfere with the proper ventilation of the projector. There are enclosures that limit the noise and extraneous light and that include integrated ventilation, but that is probably not practical unless this is a permanent installation.

Any help or advice you can give will be greatly appreciated.

I think you nailed it when you started by saying "I'm going to be using a small, home projector for some projections during a show ", you are using something in an application for which it was not really intended. That doesn't mean it may not work, but there will likely be some limitations.

I would also be very careful in regards to hanging anything, how do you plan to do that?