This is fairly common at the University where I work. I'm assuming you can
see it on your laptop screen? Likely a black square around where the picture
should be?
If so, most likely problem is that the projector either doesn't see the
signal from your laptop, or that it can't understand it.
For 1st problem, try booting your laptop AFTER getting the projector running
and also on the correct input. That way the laptop will likely "see" the
projector as a second monitor and automatically send the signal to the
projector. This usually works. However your video card may not be able to
handle sending the clip to both your laptop screen and the projector. So you
may also have to "toggle" the video output of your laptop. The method varies
slightly from laptop to laptop. Typically you press FN key and an "F" key,
often F5 or F7. Or look for a symbol on an F key that looks like 2 monitors.
Each time you press the 2 keys together the signal should cycle through
laptop/ projector/ both.. You may need to use the projector-only position..
If using a wide screen laptop in particular, or any, don't use a resolution
higher than 1024 x 768;some projectors can't "understand" a higher
resolution.
And of course you need to be sure you are on the correct input and have a
good cable.
If using Windows XP, make sure the "extended Desktop" is not set on. It's
somewhere in your Display settings. (This also applies if you see your
backgroun don the laptop and the icons on the projector)
These hints following are seldom needed but if last ditch efforts are
needed....If using Windows XP Right click on Desktop to get Display
Properties. Select Settings. You should see 2 screens. Click on #1 and look
at screen resolution. Should be set to 1024 x 768. If not, drag the slider
to that setting. Now do the same with screen # 2. IF STILL NO LUCK, change
Refresh rate. Still in "Settings", click Advanced, then the Monitor
tab.Adjust the Screen refresh rate of the Monitor Settings.usually 75 herz
is good but may have to go as low as 60 hz.Save settings and try again.
Of course mark down your current settings before you change things or you
could get into more trouble!
D. Madge
