Best way to connect laptop to 2 projectors?
fbg111 -- Fri, 02/01/2008 - 13:32
Hi all, I need to send a WMV video from a laptop to two projectors, and am not sure of the best way to cable this. The catch is, one of the projectors will be about 30-40ft away (requiring about a 50ft cable). The laptop has VGA-out, S-video-out, and USB2. Both projectors have VGA-in, S-video-in, and USB jacks (dunno if USB1 or 2 though).
I've heard VGA isn't so great for long distances, but that S-video only supports a max resolution of ~600x400. And I didn't even know until a few a days ago that you could send video via USB2. Any suggestions on what the best way to go about this is? Any advice is much appreciated.
Look into a KVM switch (keyboard video monitor), that should solve your problem. I haven't heard about transmitting video via USB, esp to a projector. You didn't mention what resolution you'll need for the WMV file - I don't consider 50 feet a long distance for transmission of VGA or S-video.
Hey friend. I think the easiest way to get the job done is to just purchase a simple s-video splitter and then the two cables in lengths you need to reach each projector. The lower resolution will have to suffice untill you can upgrade to dvi or hdmi. This will project the same image to both projectors at the same time. If you want two different pics, then you will need to use the s-video on one and then use a vga cable (to the shortest run) on the other. This will solve both issues at the least amount of cost. The only reason I don't recomend the USB is that most projectors don't use that format. If yours does, then by all means you can follow the same example as above *splitting the signal* and just purchase usb cables instead. Have fun and best of luck.
As you mentioned the S-Video resolution is actually pretty low and it will look crummy if you go that route. You didn't mention the specific projector you are using but I doubt the USB port can be used for video. What you want to use it the VGA out from your computer to the VGA in on the projector. This will give the best resolution by far.
I do courtroom setups all the time wherein I send the signal from one computer out to multiple flat panel monitors and one or more projectors. The key is sending the signal from the computer to a distribution amplifier, also know as a video splitter. Although you can find VGA "Y" cables they typically don't work because the VGA signal from the computer isn't strong enough to support two, or more sources.
The distribution amp is a small box that you plug into the wall. It has one VGA "in" and two, or more, VGA "outs." You can find these on online auctions sites for as little as $30. Of course, you often get what you pay for. Extron makes good units but they can be pricey. Do a search for "1 In 2 Out VGA Video Splitter" or "VGA Distribution Amp" and you'll find what you're looking for.
I also have often used VGA cable runs of more than 50 feet in the courtroom. If you're using a decent distribution amp (and good cables) you shouldn't have any problem.
Also, when you hook this all up, your computer will likely "see" the output to the D/A and projectors as being a second monitor. You'll need to choose if you want the signal going out to "mirror" (duplicate) what you see on your computer screen or if it is treated as a second monitor that you extend your desktop onto. All that is easily taken care of whether you're on a PC or a Mac.
Good luck.
I think depending on your laptop you might find some information through here or someone from here may help you out - laptop reviews archive
Hi Runsilent,
I was reading your post there in search for a solution for my own problem. You seem to know your way around
1) Would you please suggest a link for your a distribution amp of your preference?
2) I need to connect a macBook Pro 10.6.2 to 4 projectors (or have 4 separate video clips in the room, any ideas about that please?
3) I need to connect a tower mac G5 x2 graphics cards to 4 projectors (or have 4 separate video clips in the room, any ideas about that please?
4) I am using QLabs, if you are aware of the software. Any ideas on how to set up for the above purpose?
I do courtroom setups all the time wherein I send the signal from one computer out to multiple flat panel monitors and one or more projectors. The key is sending the signal from the computer
try a VGA splitter
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