Manual Projection Screens/Instalock Projection Screens

Quick Answer: The Manual Projection Screen, also listed as an Instalock Projection Screen, is a pull-down roller screen: the fabric is stored on a spring roller in a case fixed to the wall or ceiling, pulled down by hand to the height needed, and held there by a locking mechanism. A manual projection screen is the simplest retractable screen, with no power supply or wiring.

How a Pull-Down Screen with a Lock Works

Inside the case is a roller with a coiled spring. Pulling the handle on the bottom bar unrolls the fabric and winds the spring; a lock then catches the roller so the screen stays down. Releasing the lock, usually by a short tug downward, lets the spring rewind the fabric. The Instalock name points to this locking roller, and whether it catches at fixed stops or at any height differs between designs.

Because the screen retracts, it can hang in front of a whiteboard or chalkboard and be pulled down only when projecting, which is why roller screens are the usual choice in classrooms. The fabric is kept flat by a weighted bottom bar, but it is not tensioned at the sides, so over years of use the edges of a roller screen can curl slightly; a tab tension screen is designed to prevent that.

For large halls where a screen is too high to reach, a motorised projection screen moves the fabric at the press of a switch.

Operating Tips

• Pull the handle straight down with a steady motion; pulling at an angle makes the fabric track to one side of the roller.
• Always guide the screen back up by the handle instead of letting it snap up, which can damage the fabric, the lock and the case.
• Fix the case to a solid wall or ceiling with fixings suited to its weight.
• Roll the screen up when the room is being cleaned or painted.

Specifications

Applications

• Classrooms where the screen hangs over a whiteboard and is lowered only for projection.
• Laboratories that project diagrams or videos in part of a practical lesson.
• Meeting rooms and staff rooms with occasional presentations.
• Refits where no electrician is available to wire a motorised screen.

Why Choose LabEquip

Pull-down screens are the everyday choice for schools and colleges equipping many classrooms at once. LabEquip lists this screen in the General Lab Products range; give the width required and the mounting surface on the contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Instalock name refer to?

It refers to the locking roller, which holds the fabric at the height it is pulled to, much like a roller blind. Designs differ in whether the lock catches at fixed stops or at any height, so the mechanism is worth confirming with the order.

How do I release the lock to roll the screen up?

On most spring-roller screens, a short, gentle pull downward on the handle releases the lock. Then guide the screen up slowly with the handle in your hand until it is fully rolled.

Why does my screen not stay down?

The lock may not have engaged because the screen was pulled too quickly or released at the wrong point. Pull it slightly below the desired height and let it rise gently until it catches. If it still fails, the lock or spring needs servicing.

Can it hang in front of a whiteboard?

Yes, that is a common arrangement. Mount the case above the board so the screen covers it when lowered and leaves it clear when rolled up.

Does a manual screen need electricity?

No. It works entirely by hand and spring, so there is no wiring, switch or remote control to install or maintain.

Why are the edges of the screen curling?

Roller screens are held flat by the weight of the bottom bar, not by side tension, so edges can curl over time, especially in humid rooms. Keeping the screen rolled up when not in use helps; tab-tensioned screens are designed to avoid the problem.

Last Updated: September 2026