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Whether or not video projectors can display captions depends on the source of the video. If the video is a computer-based multimedia file and is closed-captioned, each of the three most common multimedia players (Windows Media, RealPlayer, Apple Quicktime) is capable of displaying closed captions on the computer screen, and video projectors are capable of displaying all screen content, including the captions.
If the video source is a videotape being played in a VCR, only a few projectors are capable of directly accessing and decoding the caption track. For others, an external closed captioning device must be purchased separately. These devices decode the video's closed captions and deliver them to the projector, which displays them.
Keep in mind that even if there are no deaf students or instructors in the class, captions benefit all those trying to listen in a noisy environment, as well as individuals for whom the video is not in their first language or who learn best or otherwise benefit from multisensory input.
For additional information, contact your region's ADA & IT Center at 1-800-949-4232.