Try researching xbmc its a free open source media management/player. The 'issue' is connecting the media (external HDD) to the projector. Its better to route through your computer and use a monitor cable to the projector as your 2nd monitor (or mirrored). There are many different ways to connect your media library, another solution is to use a wireless HDMI dongle that you use to share the screen with the projector (similar to above except wirelessly) and then have your external HDD connected to your LAN through your router or … Like I said, many options depends whats more important to you, quality of picture or availability of media or wired vs wireless. Hope it helps
