This article explains how to connect a Windows desktop PC or laptop to a projector using a wired or wireless method, depending on the situation. An HDMI or VGA cable works for most configurations. Chromecast is another good option. In some cases it is possible to use a wireless connection via Miracast.
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Connect PC to projector via HDMI cable
This setup is similar to connecting two monitors on Windows because you likewise need to use a cable to add a second display to your laptop or desktop.
- To connect the PC to the projector, turn off both the projector and the computer.
- This step is not necessary, but it is best to connect the cable (coming in step 2) before using them to avoid problems with one device not recognizing the other,
- Connect the PC to the projector via an HDMI cable, which is the best way because it also carries audio. But if you don’t need audio (or have a separate audio cable) or don’t like HDMI, most projectors and computers also have a VGA or DVI port.
- The cable you need depends on the ports available on both devices. If there are different ports (eg HDMI on one but VGA on the other), you will need an adapter. Amazon has many adapters for various configurations, such as HDMI to VGA.
- If you’re in a school or office, there’s a good chance there’s already a cable coming from the projector that you can plug into your computer.
- Turn on both devices.
- On your computer, press WIN + P and then select one of these options:
- Only the PC screen (called Computer only in Windows 7) essentially disconnects the screen from the projector – don’t choose this.
- Duplicate Screen will do just that- it shows the same thing as what’s on the computer
- Extend turns the projector into a second screen, allowing you to drag items between the two.
- Only the second screen (called projector only in Windows 7) shows everything on the projector and nothing on the computer.
If this does not work or Windows cannot find the projector, press the Input button on the projector to search for the computer.
Connect PC to projector via Chromecast or Roku
In many cases, someone wants to connect a computer and a projector for a particular reason, such as watching a movie or showing pictures or a presentation, not necessarily to project the entire computer screen.
If that’s your situation, a streaming media device like Chromecast or Roku is easy to set up and works if the projector supports HDMI.
Turn on the projector and plug the Chromecast into an available HDMI port. If there is also a USB port on the projector or an outlet nearby, you will need to use that as well if the device requires it for power. If necessary, configure the device.
Send whatever you want to show on screen to the projector. How you do this depends on the device you are using and what you are projecting.
For example, if you have a Chromecast and want to project your computer screen, it’s as easy as using Chrome’s built-in Cast feature – it lets you show a specific tab, full screen, or file on the projector.
If your computer supports Miracast (more info below), you can use screen mirroring on a Roku.
Miracast could be an option
Some devices support wireless connections via Miracast, which is much cheaper than a ceiling projector cable. However, it probably isn’t supported by as many projectors as Chromecast.
Check this list of Miracast devices to see if your PC and projector are supported. If you’re still unsure, follow these steps to see if it works.
These are general pointers that should point you in the right direction, but may not make perfect sense with your specific projector.
- Use the Input or LAN button on the projector or remote control to select Screen Mirroring.
- From the menu on the projector, go to Network> Screen Mirroring> ON.
- Press WIN + K on your computer, then choose the projector from the list to project the screen.
