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DIY Mini Projector

Build a mini-projector with a portable media device and a few, simple items for a big impact. Construction is quick, but the effect is fun and impressive. The projection works because of a Fresnel lens, a powerful lens that concentrates parallel light rays toward a single point. Use it to project a single image, a slide-show or a video on any large, white surface.

Things You'll Need

Portable media device
Cardboard
Scissors
Tape
Plastic Fresnel lens

Instructions

- 1
  Construct cardboard frames. Cut four pieces of cardboard that match the height of the screen of the portable media device. Cut four pieces of cardboard that match the width of the screen of the portable media device. All pieces should be approximately one inch deep. Tape together two pieces that match the height and two pieces that match the width to form a frame that surrounds the device. Repeat with the remaining pieces, so that there are two frames.
- 2
  Tape the first frame around the screen of the portable media device.
- 3
  Install the Fresnel lens. Cut the lens to the same size as the cardboard frames. Cut the edges away only, so that the center of the lens remains the center of the lens after cutting. Tape the lens to the first cardboard frame.
- 4
  Tape the second cardboard frame to the lens.
- 5
  Project images. Prop up the projector by cutting a small rectangle of cardboard. Fold the cardboard in half. Tape half of the rectangle to the back of the portable media device so that the opening of the fold faces downward and supports the device. Turn the device on and point the image at a large, white wall or screen, adjusting the placement of the device as necessary.

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