To connect a projector to a laptop, first match the type of connection both devices support (HDMI, USB‑C, VGA, or wireless). Then plug in or pair the devices, select the right input on the projector, and change your laptop’s display mode to duplicate or extend the screen.

Check ports and cables

Most modern laptops and projectors use HDMI or USB‑C; older ones may use VGA.

• Look on your laptop and projector for ports labeled HDMI, USB‑C/Thunderbolt, or VGA/RGB.

• If the ports don’t match (for example, laptop only USB‑C, projector only HDMI), use the appropriate adapter (USB‑C‑to‑HDMI, HDMI‑to‑VGA, etc.).

Wired connection steps

HDMI or USB‑C

1. Turn both laptop and projector off (recommended, but many devices also support hot‑plugging).

2. Connect one end of the HDMI or USB‑C cable to the laptop and the other to the projector.

3. Turn on the projector, then the laptop.

4. On the projector, press Input/Source and choose the HDMI/USB‑C input you used.

5. On the laptop, change display mode:
   • Windows: press Windows key + P and choose Duplicate or Extend.

 * macOS: Apple menu → System Settings → Displays → select the projector and choose Mirror or Extend.

VGA (older devices)

1. Turn off both devices.

2. Plug the VGA cable into the VGA port on each device and tighten the screws.

3. Turn on projector, then laptop, and select VGA/PC input on the projector.

4. Use the laptop’s display shortcut (Windows key + P, or Fn + F4/F5/F7/F8 depending on brand) to send the signal to the projector.

Wireless connection options

If both devices support wireless display (Miracast, Wi‑Fi projector app, Chromecast, or a wireless HDMI kit), you can connect without cables.

• Make sure laptop and projector (or streaming dongle) are on the same Wi‑Fi network.

• Put the projector or dongle in wireless/pairing mode, then on your laptop:
  • Windows: Settings → System → Display → “Connect to a wireless display”.

* macOS: Use AirPlay/Screen Mirroring if the projector/receiver supports it.

If there is no image

If nothing appears:

• Re‑check that the cable is fully inserted and the correct input is selected on the projector.

• Try a different cable/adapter and confirm the laptop’s display mode is set to Duplicate or Extend, not PC screen only.

If you say what laptop (Windows/macOS) and what ports you see, step‑by‑step instructions can be tailored to your exact setup.