The numeric portion of the name is its typical peak gain x 1000. Gain levels of surfaces cover the full range from 0.6 to 3.2, and minor variations may occur between the samples. Lower gain surfaces offer excellent uniformity across wide viewing cones, for excellent edge blending and consistent reproduction with short throw projectors. Higher gain surfaces offer a more brilliant display in a variety of settings.
* Gain is a measure of reflected or transmitted brightness as compared to a block of magnesium carbonate, which serves as the industry's standard for gain of 1.0. A more familiar "real-world" comparison is with a matt white projection screen. Most matt white screens have a fairly uniform light distribution pattern with gain of approximately 1.0. Screens that appear brighter on axis are concentrating reflected light in a narrower area: the gain may be 2.5 on axis but 0.5 at 60° to the side.