Can't figure out which projector fits these features What I need:


reasonable resolution (not 640x480, maybe 1024x768 minimum, but I'm willing to budge on this)
long life, no need to change parts
connects to a standard computer VGA out


What I don't need


SD/USB port
speakers
color depth
absolute smoothness
portability
HDMI video input
S-video input
any other sort of input than VGA


In other words, minimally I need to be able to project in grayscale and without worrying about changing a bulb. So which flavor of digital projector should I be buying?
I would look on Ebay and Craigslist since your requirements would be met by most projectors produced in the last 10+ years. Find one that suits you, and invest in a spare bulb (or two) while you're at it, since you might be buying a used item.

Also, check out Slickdeals for clearance items, such as this BenQ DLP projector that meets your requirements: http://slickdeals.net/forums/showthread.php?t=3634482