XFree86 On Computer Projectors?

Bruce Ingalls asks: "Ask Slashdot ran some computer projector recommendations back on June 4, concerning quality, cost of replacing bulbs, but I have have had problems connecting XFree86 on a laptop to computer projectors. These projectors always work in console mode, or with Microsoft Windows. I find that a projector will work with some Linux laptops, but not others. One workaround that sometimes works is to start X where it displays to the external screen only, and then hit the hotkeys to enable the laptop's internal screen, afterwards. Any other recommendations?"

Comments

Modelines?

[aliastnb]

Surely the refresh rate will be different for the projector than the built in display?

I've had similar problems getting X to appear on my TV using the TV out feature on my video card. The TV needs to be set to have a refresh rate of 50Hz or less (PAL) for the TV to display a picture. Therefore, I needed different modelines for the TV than just with the monitor.

Text mode will work for both as the refresh rate is less than 50 Hz and MS Windows will automagically move the refresh rate down to one that the projector supports- which is why each of these work. Again, if the internal display is disabled, then X is forced into using a lower refresh rate and so the projector works.

In short, specify *exactly* what refresh rate and res to use, comment out all the rest and it should work fine.