Projector Troubleshooting

Problems

Issue - Projector is not getting a signal or is not projecting the image from the laptop and the screen is blank or black.

Possible Causes and Solution

Correct Source is not selected

1. Check to make sure that you are on the correct Source (i.e. PC, VGA, HDMI, MultiHead dongle, Airplay) from the control unit. Note that It may take several seconds for input to switch.
2. If that does not resolve the problem, check the video cable (VGA, HDMI, MultiHead dongle). Make sure that the cable is securely connected to the correct port on your laptop (i.e. VGA, HDMI, MultiHead dongle).
3. Inspect cable ends for physical damage (bent pins on cable.)
4. Check to make sure the Video Mute button is not selected from a previous user. (If a red button appears, the Video Mute is on.)

Issue - Laptop shows a full desktop but the projector is only showing wallpaper without icons.

Possible Causes and Solution

For Windows:

1. Right Click on a blank space on Windows Desktop, open Display Settings.
2. Under Display Settings, look for the Multiple Displays Drop Down.
3. Click the Multiple Display Drop Down.
4. Your options are: Duplicate these Displays or Extend these Displays. 
   • Duplicate these Displays: This option shows the exact same image on your regular monitor and on the projected screen.
   • Extend these Displays: This option stretches windows to fit across both screens
5. A shortcut for this option is to press this keyboard shortcut: Windows key + P

For a Mac: For additional help, please see this article: Using external monitors with your Mac

1. Connect and turn on your additional display.
2. From the Apple icon menu, choose System Preferences.
3. Choose Displays.
4. Click the Arrangement tab.
5. Your options are: Mirror Displays or Extend Displays
   • Mirror Displays: This option shows the exact same image on your regular monitor and on the projected screen. Make sure that the Mirror Displays checkbox is selected in the lower left hand corner of the window.
   • Extend Displays: This option stretches windows to fit across both screens (monitor and projector). To extend Display uncheck the Mirror Display checkbox in the lower left hand corner of the window.

Please make sure to POWER OFF the Crestron Control Unit when done. If devices overheat they will no longer work for anyone! Projector can take up to 10 minutes to turn off. If you still hear the fan or see lights coming from the projector, it is cooling off. Visit the Knowledge Base to learn more

Contact ITS: Please report any issues to its@manhattan.edu or call 718-862-7973