Ok, I'm a newbie here, but after much discussion, reading, consturnation, I'm committed to building my PJ. I just ordered the X2Gen 17" LCD from PC Mall for $129 after rebate. It's a great price for the specs:

1280 x 1024 resolution
750:1 contrast ratio
350 cd/m2 brightness
8ms response time

I've read a couple of PLOG's regarding 17" monitors with similar specs and all have acheived outstanding results, expecially comp_atkins' 17" plog.

I've heard of some FFC issues with the x2gen 15" monitor, but not the MG17R. Has anyone used this monitor? I've checked the approved list and the 'do not use' list and have not seen anything on the monitor, but at this spec and price, how could I pass it up. FYI - it's still available and in stock at PC Mall.

Also, most PLOG have parts lists, but not specific parts...... should I be concerned as I plan this project out? or just start my PLOG and get the answers as I go? Specifically, the differences between parts for a 17" build vs a 15" build with regards to the Fresnel, bulb, and triplet sizes and types? In other words, I know I need larger Fresnel, but will the standard LL bulb and reflector work fine with this larger monitor or do I need to kick the bulb and triplet up a notch?

Looking forward to getting started, but need help with the plans. Thanks in advance for the help.

You can start your plog and get help as you go. Should be no problem there. For a 17" you'd want to go with the "pro" stuff - triplet, reflector and fresnels. People have built using "standard" stuff with a 17" monitor but the "pro" stuff is for the larger 17" LCD and you'll achieve the intended results by using properly matched components. The T15 Pulse Strike would be fine for your lamp. Should you decide to go with a higer wattage bulb there's a nice group of high-watters out there who will help. Good luck and welcome!

Thanks Durachko......

I'm a little anxious.... must resist the urge to buy and plan first! Back to my old programming days. Plan, plan, plan.

I'll start my PLOG and take a long look at your project.

Thanks again

Took me MONTHS to get rolling. Now that I'm started I hope to finish in a couple of months. (Finished meaning having a working projector but maybe not having my HTPC completed nor all the final, cosmetic details done.)