Projection Made Easy

In the past, using an external projector with your laptop could be difficult because almost every laptop came loaded with different display utilities and different function keys. Windows^® 7 Professional has been designed so you don't need an audio/video technician to connect your laptop to a projector.

Simply press the "Win" and "P" buttons simultaneously and a "film strip" image appears on your screen that allows you to extend or duplicate your display to other monitors. Just select the "Projector Only" option, and you're ready to go.

Windows^® 7 Professional recognizes the correct resolution of the projector or external monitor. "The operating system seems to memorize the settings every time you plug your notebook into the monitor," says Wesley Heywood, IT Technician Team Leader at Ivanhoe Grammar School, which emphasizes twenty-first century learning. Because of Windows^® 7 Professional, instructors now benefit from faster system start times as well as an enhanced presentation mode that makes toggling between desktop and projector a snap. "Presentation mode in Windows 7 just works," Heywood says. "It's really good."

Help calls greatly reduced

The simplicity of Windows 7 has significantly reduced the number of help desk calls at Wunderman, a global network of advertising and marketing companies. "We used to receive lots of calls from users having trouble with tasks such as connecting to an external projector," says Opher Lichter, IT Director at Wunderman. "Windows 7 greatly simplifies that process and many other common tasks, resulting in fewer help-desk calls."

Another key to eliminating projector snafus is to check the projector in advance of a key presentation. "Make sure the AV works," says Bill Corbett, Jr., head of Corbett Public Relations, Inc. "Try it out several times ahead of time; do not trust others to test it for you." If possible, set the projector up in the actual presentation environment.

Care and maintenance

Experts say to use isopropyl alcohol or a photographic lens cleaning solution to clean your projector lens. Don't apply the cleaning solution directly to the lens. Instead, apply the cleaning solution to a dirt-free cloth and wipe the lens in a spiral motion, beginning in the center and working outward. You can also use a can of compressed air to remove dust.

If you make frequent presentations, consider a case that will fit both your projector and laptop for easy transport. Also, make sure to bring your own long extension cord, spare bulbs for your projector, and a three-prong adapter. "This has saved me many times," Corbett says.