Tips for Computer and Video Presentations at NPVA of NE Meetings
By Marty Feldman, Technical Advisor
We often experience unnecessary delays at meetings when equipment incompatibility issues arise that could easily have been prevented had there been a better understanding of the basic technical requirements involved.
The issues often involve the connecting of laptop computers to video projectors.
Computers need to be compatible with the scan rates required by the projector.
Most Microsoft Power Point presentations have a native resolution of 600 x 800.
This is well within the range of nearly all of the video projectors currently available.
The Canon LV-7230 we use at our meetings will sync to any signal from 640 x 480 to
1400 x 1050 including HD. The Auto lock-up feature takes care of most computer scan rate issues, but manual fine-tuning is also sometimes necessary. This is especially desirable when the full height or width of the computer image is not being fully displayed. The fine tuning controls are accessible via the projector menus but are, unfortunately, somewhat awkward and time-consuming to adjust.
If your computer display exceeds 1400 x 1050, the resolution must be lowered to accommodate the projector. If your computer is set for dual monitor display, it must be reset to single monitor mode.
The computer connects to the projector via a VGA 15-pin D-sub cable and connects to “RGB In 2” on the projector’s rear panel. Press the projector input button on the top of the projector until “computer 2” appears in the upper left. In a few seconds the picture should appear.
Laptop computers need to be toggled to their VGA out setting. Usually this is accomplished by simultaneously pressing the command key and a designated “F” key.
The proper “F” key may have a monitor icon imprinted on it. Some laptop computers permit viewing of both the projector and built-in screen at the same time.
If you need audio from the computer, use a stereo 1/8” mini plug to two RCA Male (“Y”) cable. It goes from the 1/8” headphone jack to the RCA jacks on our Yamaha Stagepass 300 mixer. It can plug into either one of the last two channels. Usually one of these is used for the DVD player stereo audio, the other for the computer. Always keep the gain controls off when connecting or disconnecting these cables. Adjust the audio level by gradually increasing the gain by turning the control in a clockwise direction. This prevents the audio from suddenly blaring.
Arrive early enough to do all of the above and your presentation will go much more smoothly!