What do you recommend to cut down the glare on a 17" laptop screen when doing an outdoor event?

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MIXMASTERMACHOM

DJ Extraordinaire
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Oct 16, 2011
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I'm asking this question because I had an outdoor event we did and it was hard to see the screen on my main laptop because of the sun. It was difficult to see the screen at this outdoor event we did. So please help me. I didn't want to order something that may or may not work. What would any of you suggest? The laptop is an old Lenovo I got for a great price a few years back and it's working great. No issues so far.
 
Buy an anti glare screen protector.

Or with the new Serato, just run daytime mode. Works really well.
I was asking because I wasn't sure what glare screen protector to buy. The prices vary greatly.
 
Heat tends to be a concern for laptops in direct sunlight. A nice cover/ hood for the laptop would be sweet.
 
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The problem I have is the screen catching the sun reflecting off of me and whatever is behind me.
There are polarizing filter sheets for simple reflections or security (prevents people from looking from the side). The hoods are more for overwhelming light and glare that prevents you from seeing the screen. There might be times you need both and maybe even the flip-color outdoor skins for running an event outside in the summer.
 
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The problem I have is the screen catching the sun reflecting off of me and whatever is behind me.

Yep! Been there too. I ended up putting a black (large) umbrella behind me that cut the glare somewhat. I also wore a pair of those special sunglasses that cut down the glare. Even cut down a large box with flaps for side and top protection. All of these ideas didn't pan out the way I envisioned.
 
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Yep! Been there too. I ended up putting a black (large) umbrella behind me that cut the glare somewhat. I also wore a pair of those special sunglasses that cut down the glare. Even cut down a large box with flaps for side and top protection. All of these ideas didn't pan out the way I envisioned.

I'm starting to think Chris' idea makes the most sense.

old-time-camera.jpg
 
As jaswrx and Cap said, use "Daytime" mode if your DJ software has it. In lieu of that, Windows "Magnifier" has a Turn on color inversion function that will approximate it.

If the sun is really that strong, you (the DJ) need protection as well. Can't beat a cheap 10x10 canopy!
 
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I'll second the canopy motion.

Can't beat a cheap 10x10 canopy!
Sure you can with a good quality but affordable piece of reliable equipment.

The EZUp (Recommended: Eclipse & Endeavor line) products have served me well for decades.

If you plan to do outdoor events, the capacity to provide your own cover is a minimum requirement...for professionals.