How to Switch From a Projector Screen to a Computer Screen

Many computer users want to do their computing from a variety of screens and monitors. In addition to using a computer to power home entertainment systems and for television viewing, many want the ability to switch to a projector screen. It is easy to connect multiple viewing sources to a single computer.

The Video Card
Connecting viewing sources to a computer is made possible with a monitor switch box or video card. Many high-performance computers are capable of hosting two viewing sources at the same time. To see if your video card is able to power two monitors, first check to see if there are two video outputs on the back of
your video card or read the video card instruction manual. If your video card is unable to support two monitors, consider either installing a second video card or replacing your existing video card with a model that will support dual monitors.
USB 2.0 to DVI Adapter (1080P)(The USB 2.0 Graphic Adapter allows you to connect an extra monitor to your desktop PC or laptop's USB port. )
USB 2.0 to DVI Adapter (1080P) black()
USB 2.0 to DVI Adapter (QWXGA)()


Replacing or installing a new video card is a fairly simple process. While you should always read the manufacturer's instructions, the basic procedure involves opening up your computer, unscrewing and disconnecting the existing video card, and putting the new video card in its place.

The Monitor Switch
If you are unable or not interested in installing a new video card into your machine, you can also support two video displays through the use of a monitor switch. A monitor switch is a set top box that will allow you to switch between monitors externally from you computer.

Making the Connections
Whether connecting to a dual monitor video card or monitor switch, hooking up your projector and computer screen is simple. Most modern projectors have a VGA or SVGA port. This is the standard connection used for PC monitors. If you are working in a Macintosh-based platform, you will need either a projector that supports DVI, which is rare, or a VGA to DVI adapter cable, which is much more common.

To connect your dual displays to a video card, connect the monitor cables directly into the card, using the appropriate adapters. To connect two displays through a monitor switch, connect the computer to the monitor switch using the supplied cable, then connect each screen to the ports in the back of the switch.

Laptop LCD Screen(LCD Screen )
USB 2.0 to DVI Adapter (UXGA)(The USB 2.0 Graphic Adapter allows you to connect an extra monitor to your desktop PC or laptop's USB port. )


Configuring the Computer
Modern operating systems are fully capable of working with two screens. First you will need to browse to either your system preferences or computer properties. From there, you can usually choose to display in dual-screen mode, where each screen is different, or in mirror mode, where the two screens are the same.

Finally, you often will need to calibrate your screens to work with your computer. Fortunately, many operating systems come with presets that make this process very simple. For your computer screen and projector, select its resolution with the appropriate device on (if connected properly the computer should
be able to pick up if there is a monitor connected), and the computer usually can do the rest.

Now whenever you want to switch between displays, either turn the selected display on or flip the knob on your monitor switch.

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