Problems with the Projector/Screen...

Owned by Marc Miller
May 22, 2018

Problem

You are having some problems with the projector or screen when you hook up your computer to it such as:

  • Not getting a picture
  • You see a desktop, but not what you want to show
  • No audio

Solution

No Picture

Check Video Adapter/Connect Power

In most cases, the video adapter may not be working or, for some laptops, you need to have power connected as the laptop's video connection isn't sending a strong enough signal for the projector to detect it.

Another video adapter or video connection may work as an alternative.

ECI cannot provide adapters for all situations.

You may want to consider having a backup on hand as a "just in case" situation.

Try a different video connection

In some cases, the projector may have issues with the video connection you are using.

If there is an alternative one, try that and see if it works.

Check the Input

Sometimes, someone has the projector/screen on a completely different input.

Make sure it is on the correct input by using the Input button on the remote or using the Projector Switch that is in the room.

Change the resolution on your computer

Not all of the projectors can support the native resolution of your laptop or device.

Consider changing the resolution to one of the following standards:

  • 800x600
  • 1024x768
  • 1920x1080

You see a desktop, but not what you want to show

In most cases, the laptop is configured to Extend the Desktop instead of Mirror Display/Desktop.

Some applications take advantage of an Extended view, like Powerpoint, where the presenter can see their notes on their device, but show the slide without the notes on the main screen.

Depending on how you want to present things, we recommend setting your laptop to Mirror it.  

For Windows

You can switch this view by going Win+P to call up the Display Options window.

It will give you the following Options:

  • PC Screen Only - Only shows on the laptop or Primary screen
  • Duplicate - Mirror the laptop's screen to the Projector/Screen
  • Extend - Consider the Projector/Screen as extra desk space (Usually on the 'right' of your screen)
  • Projector (Second screen only) - Disables the view on the laptop and shows only on the Projector/Screen connected.

For Macs

  • You will want to go to System Preferences
  • Go to Displays
  • Go to Arrangement
  • Click on Mirror Displays to Mirror, otherwise note where the 2 display is, which you will want to drag items over to the that side to show.

No Audio

Unfortunately, Audio is only provided if you are using the HDMI connection or for some rooms, making use of the headphone jack connected to the VGA cable.

Volume should be controlled via your computer, then lastly by any control panel nearby.

If there is still no Audio, there is a likely problem with the Projector/Screen or the Cable itself.