Connecting a MacBook to an external display or projector

I have tried to connect my MacBook to a projector and to a TV using the mini-DVI to Video adapter, both with the same poor results. Here's the steps I took:
- Turned on the TV
- Connected the video cable to the TV "video in"
- Connected the video cable to the MacBook with the mini-DVI to vieo adapter
- Opened the MacBook
- Turned it on
The MacBook boots up, the MacBook resolution changes and the video on the TV is distorted, showing essentially three images of the MacBook display. Any attempt to adjust the resolution using system preferences just makes it worse.
Has anyone had success using a MacBook for presentations using either a TV or a projector and, if so, what procedure do you use to connect?

Greetings from Hong Kong-
I have a major presentation to give in a couple of days and have NOT been successful connecting to an external display. I am starting to freak out. Any instructions would be helpful!

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Hi emalen: The web link below is for the adapter required to connect a DVI type monitor. It may not be the exact one you need but it will give you the idea of what you are looking for.
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You need a cable,
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So far, after connecting all the cables, all I can see on my LCD TV is my desktop picture from my MacBook.
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Connecting a MacBook to an external display or projector

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