How to Connect a Laptop to Projector
A laptop computer can connect to a projector to facilitate presentations by projecting the computer's display onto a wall or a projection screen. This can be used in conjunction with a PowerPoint presentation or DVD movie to display to a large group of people. A projector is connected to your computer via the computer's video out port and is usually done using a VGA cable.
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Instructions
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Connect one end of the VGA cable to your laptop's video out port. You can find the port on the side or back of your laptop, and it will be labeled "VGA OUT" or have a symbol of a small monitor located next to it. The port is usually blue, but may be a different color depending on the make and model of your computer.
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Connect the other end of the VGA cable to your projector's video in port. You can find the port on the back of your projector, and it will be labeled "VGA."
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Plug in and power on your projector and laptop if you have not already done so. When the projector powers on, select the computer input using the "Mode" or "Input" key. The "Mode" or "Input" key will be located on the top of the projector along with the other buttons that control projector functions.
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Enable the projector by accessing the system settings or pressing "Fn"+"F4." Depending on the make and model of your computer, it may use an alternate function key to enable the projector. To access Display settings, right-click on your computer's desktop and click "Screen Resolution." Click "Detect" to allow your computer to search for the connected projector. Selecting "Extended" display will allow you to use the projector as a secondary monitor, while selecting a "Mirrored" display will allow you to mirror exactly what's on your computer monitor. Ensure your projector is connected to your laptop before attempting to change these settings because they will only be available with a projector or second monitor connected.
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References
- Photo Credit projector ready for presentation image by Dmitry Goygel-Sokol from Fotolia.com
