Using a Data Projector

Question

Level 1

8 points

Using a Data Projector

I use a data projector for briefings and other projected display purposes. I recently switched to a MacBook from a Sony laptop and cannot get my projector to work with the new machine. The projector is detected as a valid display, but it appears that no signal (analog or digital) is getting through the VGA cable. I have tried using the projector in the the native OS X mode and with XP running in a virtual machine. Nothing works. Any ideas out there? Thanks. MEINV

MacBook Mac OS X (10.4.10)

Posted on Jun 30, 2007 8:09 PM

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Answer 1

Jaylen

Level 1

0 points

Jul 2, 2007 4:50 PM in response to MEINV

It wont work because Apple Doesnt allow any other type of Software to work... so if the Projecter thing is not made by Apple it wont work... in this case you would have to buy one at the apple shop...

Please read my question the title is HEY GUYS PLEASE HELP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! it is pretty easy to answer because you have a MACBOOK. Hope I helped

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Answer 2

MEINV Author

Level 1

8 points

Jul 2, 2007 5:50 PM in response to Jaylen

You really should check your facts before you post. All data projectors at the Apple Store are 3rd party.

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Answer 3

Jul 2, 2007 7:06 PM in response to MEINV

I have used 2 or 3 different projectors with my Macbook and all have worked fine. I have not had any problems with getting them to work. On one occasion I had to go into the Displays Preferences and change a couple of settings. I think that it had something to do with mirroring and the other option it gives you. I don't have a projector to hook up so my Macbook is not giving me that option to look at right now. Hopefully someone with more experience than I will post something. There should be a way to make it work though.
What kind of cable are you using? Mini DVI to VGA? I did not know that one existed.

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Answer 4

MEINV Author

Level 1

8 points

Jul 2, 2007 9:50 PM in response to xct&fcoach

Yes, mini DVI to VGA. I have heard of one other case where the owner of a MacBook could not get a projector to work. I have contact Apple directly regarding this problem. If I find a solution, I will post for everyone.

MacBook Mac OS X (10.4.10)

MacBook Mac OS X (10.4.10)

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Answer 5

BSteely

Level 5

7,643 points

Jul 2, 2007 10:33 PM in response to MEINV

Several people are reporting some strange behavior out of OS 10.4.10. Is there any way you can try using 10.4.9 to see if it works?

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Answer 6

Young1

Level 1

0 points

Sep 21, 2007 6:42 PM in response to BSteely

I am not 100% sure, but it MAY have to do with the adapter... You said that you have a Mini-DVI to VGA adapter... I know it will cost you another $20, but try the Mini-DVI to DVI adapter instead (if your projector can use DVI...

It sounds like you are in the same position that I am:

Macbook
Projector (IBM E400)
Mini_DVI to VGA adapter

In my case, the cable that I have is a DVI connector on one end, & VGA on the other... toss in that Apple Adapter, and who knows what happens in the conversion!

I am going to get the Apple Mini-DVI to DVI adapter tomorrow & try it with a DVI to DVI cable & I BET that it works.....

I will try to post my findings sometime early next week.

Barry

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Answer 7

FilMac

Level 1

20 points

Sep 22, 2007 6:54 AM in response to Young1

The probability of a data projector not working is directly proportional to the amount of people in the audience waiting for you to start.
If you run into problem plug a standard monitor into your macBook If this works then you know the problem is with the data projector (most have an auto set up - check if this is on). If the monitor doesn't work then you have a problem with either port not switched on press F7 if this doesn't do anything then you've got a dodgy adapter.

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