Connecting a Laptop to a COM Classroom AV System

Almost all laptops made within the 4-5 years feature a HDMI, Minidisplay, or USB-C port for connecting the computer to a screen or projector. Most cell phones and tablets can be connected the same way with the use of an adapter. This guide will show the steps needed to connect these devices.

Step 1:

Find the HDMI, MiniDisplay, or USB-C Port connection on your device. If your computer has multiple types of connections, either can be used.

Mini DisplayPort on a Mac
Mini DisplayPort on a Mac Laptop
HDMI Connection on a Mac Laptop
HDMI Connection on a Mac Laptop


PC Laptop with both a Mini DisplayPort [left] and HDMI connector [middle]
PC Laptop with both a Mini DisplayPort [left] and HDMI connector [middle]
USB-C Connection
USB-C Connection on a Mac Laptop


Step 2:


Attach the HDMI Cable — Every COM maintained classroom has a HDMI for attaching to the AV system. Some rooms have the cable permanently attached to the wall, other rooms have a wall or rack connection for the cable.

If your laptop uses a Mini DisplayPort connection, use the White HDMI to Mini DisplayPort adapter which is tied to the HDMI cable. If using USB-C, you will need to check out an adapter from RM 205. The adapter plugs into the USB-C port and then the HDMI cable connects to the adapter. If using a HDMI Port, the white adapter in the room should not be connected to anything.

HDMI Cable with Mini DisplayPort cable attached.
HDMI Cable with Mini DisplayPort cable attached.

Step 4:

Select the HDMI Input on the AV System

Press the “HDMI” button on the touchscreen or the physical button. The projector or LCD Screen should turn on.

Press the physical HDMI button or the HDMI Icon on the touchscreen.
Press the physical HDMI button or the HDMI Icon on the touchscreen.