Ive got two LCDs I can play with. One is a 17 inch and the other is a nice little 15 inch.

The 17 inch is a Hanns-G HW173D Widescreen.

Resolution: 1400 x 900
Contrast Ratio: 500:1
Response Time: 8ms

The 15 inch is a Mag Innovision LT582s

Resolution 1024 x 768
Contrast Ratio: 400:1
response time 16ms
dot pitch: .297 mm

Heres where I am split between the two. I want to buy the S15 lens kit and make a simple 15inch lcd projector. Then I get to reading on these forums that there is an FFC issue. 45 pin most likely 0.5 pitch FFC cable. I think I can find one of those for 15$ on ebay. I just hope all FFC cables are standardized and that this won't turn into a headache. As for the 17 inch monitor:

If I decide to go with it can I use the S15 lens kit and use software to trim the edges? OR should I buy two pro Fresnel lens's separately along with the 320mm triplet? Could a lens setup like this let me choose between large and small lcds? That would be ideal.

The light source Im shooting for is a 400w metal halide ballast if that matters.

Thanks again and Im posting this after mulling over many threads and burning up google. Im some what at a fork in the road and would like to save myself some regret later on down.

Edit: Im going ahead with the Pro Fresnel lenses and 320mm triplet.

The Pro Fresnels will not work with the 320mm triplet.

You will need a 220mm and 320mm fresnel to match the 320mm triplet.

You can use the 220mm Pro fresnel but you will need to buy the larger 320mm fresnel from www.3dlens.com. I think it is the A395a

28$ plus shipping seems steep. Found the exact same fresnel at BHLENS.com for 8$. Anyone know the story with those guys?

pretty much sums it up right there. - it would seem

The last time I looked bhlens.com only took wire transfers which cost a lot and are a hassle.

And shipping was like $25 for one fresnel.

And no-one I know of has actually bought from them and confirmed they are reliable.