Well, having asked advice on software and DACs and decided to hold back on my decision until I've tried some of the options out, I thought I would be brave and ask advice on building a projector.
The result I would like to achieve is a relatively light weight (I have a bad back) laser, or one which can be winched and rigged easily, with good graphics capabilities. I plan to do some laser highlighting of projection mapped images [edit] and lots of funky abstracts as well as beam shows (I guess if the galvos are good for graphics they will be good for beams?). <edit> Now decided on separate PJ for graphics & beams</edit>
I'm not sure about power. Maybe 3-4 watts for now? <edit> decided on lower power</edit> I would like a nice balanced white, good beam characteristics (without having to sell any of my limbs). I have no idea what the preferred diode wavelengths are, so advice on this would be great.
Also dichroic and optics setup. What is the best arrangement?
Safety features and electronics - What is needed for safety in the UK and what are the best propriety products on the market? I'd like to support people like Mr Stanwax over here.
I have noticed that some of the beam tables I have seen are built upon a laser cut or drilled optical bed. I imagine this is expensive, although makes it a little lighter weight and highly upgradeable. Do you think this is a good way to go and are there any drawbacks?
What is the best way of going around the design, manufacture and set-up of a projector?
Budget - £1.5k but if this is not enough I'll have to save a little more. <edit> expecting this to cost a lot more than £1.5k now - if it costs to do what I want it to do, then so be it</edit>
Are there any other questions I should be asking?
Many thanks,
Keith