So you have decided that you will set up your home theater yourself. You have an eye on a projector, one that seems has all the features you need yet is not too pricey. Next step is to decide on the type of projector screen you want to buy. There are several different types of projector screens on the market, but by far the most popular when it comes to home theaters is the fixed projector screen. The fixed projector screen is just what it says it is; a projector screen that is affixed or mounted on a wall. Some people prefer an electric projector screen, so they can roll it up out of the way when it is not in use, and this does have some benefits. One major benefit is that there is less danger of it getting dirty of damaged when not in use. However, due to the motorized parts, that type of projector screen is usually considerably more expensive than the fixed screen, depending in part also on the projector screen material used.
If you decide to buy a fixed projector screen, you will need to determine how large it should be. There are many factors to take into consideration when deciding on the size of the screen, and it also is determined by quite a few different variables such as the type of signal that your projector gives off, and the actual room you are going to place the screen in. Rather than getting into details on how to measure exactly how large your screen should be, based on the distance you will be sitting away from it, I would like to suggest that you search through some different online calculators for determining projector screen sizes. There are quite a few sites that offer a calculator, all you have to do it type in a few numbers and it will give you the optimum size.
Usually a regular home theater does well with a screen size that ranges from around 84 to 92 inches in width. Larger than that, and you will lose a lot of quality with the picture, unless you have a high end projector. Most people tend to go for the more cheap projectors in their home theaters, so screen size is an issue in those cases. Also, if it is too large, it will be quite overwhelming for people sitting closest to it. Another point is that if you try to project the image over a large surface you may find that you are having to replace your projection lamp, as they dim with age. They are not cheap, so it is in your best interest to try to minimize this.
As far as placement on the wall, you need to ensure that there is enough space to the top and bottom of the screen, and that you have plenty of room to install the speakers to either side of the screen. Generally speaking, it is better to have the front speakers situated right beside the screen, rather than in the corners of the room, as that way it seems that the speaking and sound is coming from the screen. Some people like to place the speakers behind perforated fixed projector screens, so the sound seems to be coming from the screen. If you position your speakers beside your screen, however, this is not really necessary.