Projection Rig Build Guide
A complete DIY weatherproof outdoor projection mapping rig — from parts list to first show.
Some links on this page are Amazon affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. You pay nothing extra — using these links supports G-FX Lab at no cost to you.
Why I Built This
I spent 31 years as a software developer, but one of my most satisfying projects was building a weatherproof outdoor projection mapping rig for my own front yard. What started as a personal hobby expanded — my neighbor wanted one too, and soon we were running synchronized two-house projection shows for holidays, graduations, and neighborhood events.
Pre-built outdoor rigs exist, but they come with a significant premium. By building your own you choose exactly the components you want, and when you are ready to upgrade — a brighter projector, a faster mini PC — you can do so at a significantly lower cost than purchasing an upgraded solution from a turnkey supplier.
Bill of Materials
| # | Item | Price | Buy on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Optoma GT2100HDR Short Throw Laser Projector | $1,499.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 | DeerTV Small Outdoor Projector Enclosure PRO | $469.00 | DeerTV.com |
| 3 | GMKtec Mini PC M2 — Intel i7-1185G7 | $459.98 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 | AZWang 1000FT Long Range FM Transmitter | $159.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 6 | Vascer Heavy Duty Security Cable 15ft (3/8") | $24.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 7 | Master Lock Magnum Heavy Duty Padlock | $14.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 8 | PYLE-PRO Universal Laptop Projector Tripod Stand | $39.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 9 | MysRuida IP68 Waterproof USB 3.0 Extension | $12.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 10 | USB 3.1 Type C Flush Mount Panel Extension | $12.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 11 | Lonlonty IP68 CAT6 RJ45 Panel Mount Coupler | $11.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 12 | Dikiwodark RV Cable Passthrough for FM Antenna | $18.50 | Buy on Amazon |
| 13 | BESIGN Ground Loop Noise Isolator · OPTIONAL | $9.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 14 | ZRuiYFFS Stainless Steel Door Handle (10") | $13.39 | Buy on Amazon |
| 15 | Fayeploo M4 Button Torx Screws 100-pack | $9.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 16 | ICEELEC Mountable Power Strip 4-outlet | $17.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 17 | HYDROSORBENT Silica Gel Desiccant 40g | $9.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 18 | Linelucool Deburring Tool + 10 HSS Blades | $7.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 19 | Rust-Oleum Clear Coat Spray (12oz) | $6.47 | Buy on Amazon |
| 20 | WD-40 White Lithium Grease Spray | $7.18 | Buy on Amazon |
| 21 | RIY Trampoline Stakes 12" (8-pack) | $17.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 22 | indiedouker Property Line Markers (20-pack) | $15.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 23 | SPACERR Outlet Box Extender Kit (22-pack) · OPTIONAL | $12.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 24 | Command 20lb X-Large Picture Hanging Strips (16 Pairs) | $9.75 | Buy on Amazon |
| 25 | GUARDLEAD 18" Collapsible Traffic Cones | $12.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 26 | 100PCS 304 Stainless Steel Fender Washer Assortment Kit | $8.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| Approximate Total Build Cost (with tax) | ~$2,862 |
Prices are approximate and fluctuate on Amazon. Optional items aren't required for core function but improve reliability or convenience. (Item 5 is intentionally retired — the FM transmitter in #4 now includes its antenna.)
Projector Selection Guide
Why Laser?
Laser projectors generate significantly less heat than lamp-based projectors — critical when your projector lives inside a sealed enclosure.
They also last 30,000+ hours vs 2,000–5,000 hours for lamp-based, with better color and contrast.
Facade Color Matters
- Light / white facades — 3,000+ lumens
- Medium tone facades — 4,000+ lumens
- Dark facades — 5,000+ lumens, or consider two projectors
Alternate Projector Options
The Optoma GT2100HDR is Geno's personal choice, but these projectors are also well-suited for home facade projection mapping. All are compatible with the DeerTV PRO enclosure — verify dimensions before purchasing (max 17.1 × 15.7 × 6.1 inches). Remember: darker facades require more lumens.
| Projector | Lumens | Res | Type | Price | Buy on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Optoma GT2100HDRGeno's Choice | 4,200 | 1080p | Short Throw Laser | $1,499.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| BenQ TH671ST | 3,000 | 1080p | Short Throw DLP | $949.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| BenQ TK710STi | 3,200 | 4K | Short Throw Laser | $1,899.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| BenQ HT2060 | 2,800 | 1080p | Short Throw DLP | $1,450.09 | Buy on Amazon |
| ViewSonic PX701-4K | 3,200 | 4K | Standard Throw | $829.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| Epson Home Cinema 2350 | 2,800 | 1080p | Standard Throw | $999.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Prices are approximate and subject to change. Laser projectors are strongly recommended over lamp-based for enclosure use due to lower heat generation and longer lifespan. All affiliate links include tag thegfxlab-20.
Projection Mapping Software — What You'll Need to Run Your Shows
The rig is the hardware — but to actually map and run your shows you'll need projection mapping software. Here are the most popular options used by home enthusiasts and professionals alike. FacadeThemes.com generates content packages compatible with all of these platforms.
| Software | Best For | Pricing | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| HeavyMPopular Choice for Home Use | Beginners — home enthusiasts, easy to learn | Free trial, paid plans from $19/mo | heavym.net |
| MadMapper | Intermediate to professional users | From $9.99/mo | madmapper.com |
| Resolume | Professional and live performance | From $25/mo | resolume.com |
| TouchDesigner | Advanced users, real-time generative visuals | Free non-commercial | derivative.ca |
| Lightform | Plug and play, beginner friendly | Hardware + software bundle | lightform.com |
All software links open in a new tab. FacadeThemes.com generates standard file formats (PNG, MP4, PDF) compatible with all of the above platforms — no proprietary format lock-in.
Real World Shows — Watch the Rig in Action
These are real shows running on real houses using this exact rig. Content generated by FacadeThemes.com, mapped and played back through projection mapping software.
Subscribe to @GenosWorldOfTech on YouTube for new show productions, rig build tutorials, and FacadeThemes walkthroughs.
What to Run on Your New Rig — Content Resources
Now that your rig is built you need content. Here are two options that work great together:
FacadeThemes — Outdoor Facade Content
Upload a photo of your house and generate completely unique AI-powered projection mapping themes for your outdoor facade. Any occasion, any style, any house. Try it free at facadethemes.com.
Try FacadeThemes FreeAtmosFX — Indoor Window Decorations
AtmosFX offers premium pre-made digital decorations for window projections — Halloween characters, Christmas scenes, and more. Perfect for complementing your outdoor FacadeThemes show with indoor window displays.
Shop AtmosFX Digital DecorationsFacadeThemes is an official AtmosFX affiliate partner. We earn a small commission on purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you.