Would you still put VGA compatibility into a new build?

[SamanthaD]

You're designing a new lecture space and allowing facility for external laptops - would you still put VGA cables in or just HDMI?

 

An existing PC and HDMI connection for newer laptops is already provided...

Edited June 2, 2017 by SamDavis

[Norphy]

Does the projector/display that you're planning to use have a VGA input? If so, at the very least I'd put VGA onto the breakout box so VGA could be used on request.

[SamanthaD]

Inputs are going to a switcher, not to the projector direct. If VGA was used then this would influence the type of switcher used....

[DJ-1701]

VGA is still being supplied on laptops as well, so I would put it in.

[Michael]

I voted yes, but alternatively you can get HDMI to VGA/audio converters powered by USB.

[DJ-1701]

Inputs are going to a switcher, not to the projector direct. If VGA was used then this would influence the type of switcher used....

 

In that case, and if you think VGA use would be rare, could you get a VGA and 3.5mm Jack to HDMI convertor that could be used if required?

[FN-GM]

I wouldn't no. We don't have VGA in any of our secondary schools and haven't for over 3 years now. Never needed it.

[hardtailstar]

I would put it in as a back up.

 

unless you are running two HDMI cables?

 

But there is also the case that many laptops dont have HDMI and also in my experience the VGA to HDMI converters dont always work.

[SamanthaD]

Setup would be multiple inputs to a switcher (PC, HDMI laptop connection, visualiser, blu-ray etc) then converting from HDMI output to Cat 6 to send to projector.

 

Redundancy etc is not an issue here - just do you feel VGA is still being used, or can we safely leave it out and expect people to use HDMI?

[thimon]

I wouldn't no. We don't have VGA in any of our secondary schools and haven't for over 3 years now. Never needed it.

I envy you

[Edu-IT]

Suppose it depends on your hardware. If you have kit that is likely to use it, then yes. If not, don't bother and have a couple of adaptors on hand.

[john]

I'd run it if its open to visitors etc as you never know when you will come across it. In all the rooms i re-designed in my last job I ran 4 CAT6 to projector and teacher / lecture location and used balun so you can easily swap around what is needed was much easier and more flexible so when the old VCR had to come out we just grabbed the balun kit and patched it in and worked great.

[dapaulio]

My Vote yes... I have thrown vga in for good measure. Im running cables anyway. No different having one extra and it doesnt cost much for it. Plenty of teachers out there with laptops with only vga.

[HTCPCP]

I would, simply because it's still widely used on all but the latest devices, but also VGA is far less 'nickable' than HDMI leads.