Make your own smartphone projector, it's that simple!
What's the story
Making a DIY smartphone projector is a cheap and entertaining way to watch movies on the big screen without the need for costly gadgets.
With just some everyday household items and a bit of ingenuity, you can create your very own projector.
This article will break down each step, making it super easy for anyone to join in on the fun, even if you're new to the world of DIY.
Materials
Gather your materials
First off, gather your materials.
You'll need a shoebox, a magnifying glass with the handle removed ($5-$10), black paint or thick black paper, adhesive tape, and of course, your smartphone.
The magnifying glass will serve as the lens for your projector, magnifying the image from your phone's screen.
Make sure the shoebox is strong enough to hold your phone and the lens.
Preparation
Prepare the shoebox
Either paint the interior of your shoebox with black paint or line it with thick black paper.
This step is important because it eliminates light leakage, which in turn improves the clarity of the image you project.
Make sure to let the paint dry thoroughly before moving on to the next step.
Lens installation
Install the lens
Cut a hole in one end of the shoebox slightly smaller than the diameter of your magnifying glass.
Insert the lens into this hole from inside the box and secure it with adhesive tape around the edges on both sides.
Ensure it's firmly fixed to prevent any movement that might blur your projected image.
Phone setup
Secure your smartphone
Inside the box, on the side opposite the lens, position two stacks of books or another stable object to act as supports for your smartphone.
By moving these supports, you will be able to adjust the focus by modifying the distance between the phone's screen and the lens.
Use some more adhesive tape to firmly attach your phone to these supports. You don't want your phone to move while viewing.
Adjustment
Fine-tuning for better viewing
The last step is to fiddle with the positioning and tilting of the shoebox and your phone until the projection on your wall or screen becomes clear.
You may have to try different distances from the wall to see what works best.
And of course, the darker the room, the better you'll be able to see the images (they'll be more vibrant).