Closed Captioning for Videotapes

Closed caption devices (CCD) that display subtitled text from tapes and DVD are not standard on all classroom projectors at this point, although we are working on it. Right now some rooms have CCD's permanently installed, and in others we deploy CCD’s to classrooms on request. Closed-captioning can be turned on and off in those rooms equipped with our OnScreen control system. Rooms that are CC-equipped as of Fall 2006 include: ACD308, 315, 317, FCB108, Sci1-207, Sci2-245, 249, 251, UH270, and all Markstein Hall classrooms.

< Look for this symbol on the OnScreen controls.

Presentation Controllers

Presentation controllers are small handheld devices that allow you to move around the room while you control what's going on on the projector screen. This frees you from the instructor station and lets you move around to engage students more fully. There are many brands and models available. We have recommended and had success with the Honeywell Power Presenter. If you would like more information on how to get one of these, please contact Chuck Allen (4783).

Mono Videotapes

Some VHS tapes have monophonic audio tracks (as opposed to stereo). This can cause playback problems. Use the DVD-VCR remote "Audio" button to switch to mono to eliminate playback noises. The audio mode will be visible as an onscreen menu via the video projector image.

Using Wireless Microphones

Wireless receivers are installed in ACD102, Arts240, and all Markstein Hall classrooms. If you wish to use a wireless microphone in ACD102 or Arts240, please contact us so we can advise you on which model to buy and how to set it for use in those rooms. Microphones for Markstein Hall will be available for checkout on a semester-long basis from the Student Technology Help Desk (Kellogg Library – 2^nd floor).

Test DVDs before critical playback in a class

Not all DVDs work in all classrooms…....avoid surprises. For best quality playback use the PC DVD player. This also provides preview via the PC flat panel and advanced DVD features without having to use the DVD remote control. In newer systems the volume and playback controls are on the keyboard.

Reporting Problems

We try to make them as easy to use as possible, but if you run into trouble using one of our smart classrooms please call the Student Technology Help Desk at 6505. There’s a phone in every room and it’s programmed into the speed dial. Someone will help you on the phone, fix things remotely, or come to your aid.

Leave rooms suitable for next instructor

When your class is over, please take a moment to tidy up and turn the data projector off. Don’t forget to logout of the computer, although it will log you off automatically after a half hour of inactivity.