Don't want to spend $100 on yet another Apple gadget? If you're willing to put up with another wire, you can mirror your iPad's display with a $40 HDMI adapter instead. This approach isn't as elegant as the wireless AirPlay method, but it's cheaper--and easier to carry around and configure on the go if you want to mirror your iPad's display to a projector or TV to give presentations during meetings.

All you have to do is pick up an for about $40, plug it into your iPad, and connect the adapter to your HDTV with a standard HDMI cable (sold separately), and you should be good to go. If your TV doesn't have any free HDMI ports, you can use the Composite video or VGA adapter, though neither will look as good (and the VGA adapter will handle video only).

Unfortunately, the Digital AV Adapter has a few compatibility issues in need of sorting out. First, be aware that an older version of the Digital AV Adapter (part number MC953ZM/A) exists that doesn't support the third-generation iPad. Some users have reported that it still works, but it gives you a warning when you plug the adapter in. Make sure that you buy the newer Digital AV Adapter (part number MD098ZM/A)!

Also, be aware that first-generation iPads don't support video mirroring at all. You can still use the Digital AV Adapter to show content from certain apps (Video, Keynote, and Photo, for example), but in order for this feature to work, the app developer must have specifically enabled it.