I would like to build a verticle pj but i would also like to keep it as simple as possible. I was thinking about building my case with the triplet directly on top and an fs mirror above it, similar to an ohp. Would this work, has anyone done it this way? I was also pondering a lightbox with a layer of glass seperating it from the rest of the pj. What would be the best glass to use (1/4" ,1/8" ,lexan, or other)? And also do i really need a reflector? i have one of those 400W metal Halide 12" long bulbs. Oh yeah and which way do i position the lcd in a vert. pj?

Thanks to all those who actually answer all my questions!!!

There have been numerous people that have don it this way with an OHP, but dont know how much of that you'll find here. However; the first surface mirror will work.
OH-i do remember seeing somewhere that people who actually used an OHP were raising the screen off of the OHP so it was not melting by being directly on it.

Just take your time and look around. Yes, it will be long, and maybe slow, but you will get it.
And if you haven't figured it out yet-IT WILL BE ADDICTING!!

Yes, I have heard of people using the FS mirror like that before.

You will probably want a reflector. It is an extra $8 and will greatly increase the brightness of your picture (of course you don't NEED one).

Remember that you will still need active cooling for the LCD even if you seal off the light box.

Check out the vertical PJ PLOGS and you will find most of the answers to your questions.

Certainly that will work. Having the mirror inside the case looks a bit nicer, but does require a slightly larger mirror, and doesn't get quite as much height.

The LCD is placed face up, so that you could read it from the projection lens side if there is an odd number of mirrors inbetween the LCD and the screen. If there is an even number of mirrors (or zero) then the LCD is placed so that the front faces the lamp. Only count mirrors between the LCD and screen, not between the lamp and LCD. I'd advise that you try some experiments to see exactly what the mirror does to the projection, and what orientation you'd need to get things right on the screen.

For a verical design, I'd hesitate to use plexiglass or lexan to shield the light. Bcause heat rises, the plastic will get very hot, and may melt. This is a case where I think that tempered glass (Or at least glass) is called for. Consider the use of IR and UV blocking glass as well. 1/8" should be adequate, but thicker wouldn't hurt. Most light loss through glass is going through the surfaces, not passing through the actual material itself.

And I'd advise that you use a reflector. While not needed, it certainly helps.

I really misunderstood what he was asking.

I thought he meant have a vertical setup with the lens on top and projecting at the mirror which would be above it at 45 degree angle(the last thing before the screen).