Q: Aren't there already ways to do this? A: Not really... Here are some old ways to blank the LCD projector... Use the function keys to turn off the output - This causes the projector to go to a "blue screen" or display the projector manufacturer's logo. Video glitches also appear on the projector screen. This reflects poorly on you and is disruptive to your presentation Use a "crash" switcher - A cheap VGA switch that cuts the signal giving you the same blue screen and/or manufacturer's logo as #1 Run to the projector and hit the mute button - Very few projectors have this, and you have to walk over to the projector, find the button, back to your laptop to change presentations, then back to the projector to un-mute it. A lot of walking, and it puts a large gap in your presentation where you can lose your audience. Use a powerpoint remote "blank" button - Won't work either, because it blanks it on the laptop screen too!, so you can't bring up your next presentation Putting a piece of cardboard in front of the projector - This makes you look very terrible! Plus you have to do the 50 yard dash back and forth The VGA Blackout Box truly is an innovative solution to an all too common problem. You could also use a $7500 high end switcher...but this solves it for a whole lot less.

Q: Will it still blank the screen if I swap it between laptops? A: No signal will pass, but the projector it is plugged into will likely go to a blue screen or a manufacturer's logo because it thinks there is no signal. The vast majority of projectors allow you to turn off the blue screen, but you have to go into their menus. It's always best to have all the presentations on a single laptop anyways. Changing laptops between presenters tends to resemble a 3 ring circus. I'm all about smooth!

Q: Does it require power? A: This new version 2.0 requires 2 AA Batteries for the led. If you don't care about the led then you don't need batteries.

Q: Do you ship outside the US? A: Yes. Email me your country and I will develop a shipping quote for you and send you a paypal invoice if you're good with the shipping costs.

Q: How do I plug it in? A: Plug the Male VGA cable into your laptop or desktop computer. The cable coming from the projector plugs into the cable with the female jack. It was designed with a longer input cable as most VGA outputs are on the left side or back, while most people are right handed, so the box sits on the right.

Q: Can I get one customized to my unique needs? A: I can try. Let me know what you need different.

Q: Where does the name come from? A: On a lighting board there is a "blackout" switch that shuts off all the lights. Same idea here. Also what happens when the lights go out during a power outage (although that is definitely not a smooth experience). Also a cool song by the Scorpions, but I digress.