Reference Guide for Classroom AV Systems

This article provides an overview of using the media control systems in Colorado School of Mines classrooms, outlining how to connect and display various video sources such as the podium PC, HDMI-connected laptops, and document cameras. It also includes guidance on sending video to multiple projectors, setting up remote lectures with integrated cameras and microphones, and properly shutting down the AV system at the end of a session.

Is a Classroom Down?

For Immediate assistance, call:

303-278-HELP (4357) 

Using the Classroom AV System
 
Media Control Panel

Touch anywhere to power on the system and begin getting your device connected.

 
Video Source

Select what device you would like to display on the classroom projector(s).  The projector(s) will turn on and the screens will automatically lower once you’ve made the following choices:

Podium PC

• Choose this option if you are presenting from the classroom’s podium computer.
• Log in to the podium PC with your Mines username and password.

HDMI Cable

• Choose this option if you are presenting from your own laptop.
• Connect the loose HDMI cable on the podium into your laptop.

Document Camera

• Choose this option if you are presenting content from the overhead document camera.
• Note: The white surface below the document camera is also a white board surface.  Feel free to use dry erase markers if is suits your needs.

Sending Video Source to Projector

Many classrooms are equipped with multiple projectors.  You may choose to send a video source to either the left projector, right projector, or both.

Send to All  

• Mirrors your video source to both classroom projectors.
• This option tends to be easiest for all students to see.

Left Projector / Right Projector

• Sends video source to a single projector.
• Allows you to send a different video source to the other projector.

Example: Left Projector for Podium PC, Right Projector for Document Camera.

Remote Lectures

For lectures or presentations with a remote audience be sure to use the classroom podium PC.  The cameras and microphones built into the classroom will only function while using the podium PC. Once you’re logged in, open up your remote lecture software (Zoom, MS Teams, etc.) and select the following options within that application’s settings:

Camera:

• Live Lecture Capture

Mic:  

• Echo Cancelling Speakerphone

Speakers

• Extron HDMI

 
Camera Controls

Some classrooms (especially larger rooms) are equipped with lecture capture camera control. Preset camera positions, Pan, Tilt, and Zoom can all be conducted from the touch panel under CAM CTRL.

Document Camera

If you are presenting content from the classroom’s document camera, you will find options such as zoom, focus, and freeze image on the device itself.

Shutdown

Once your lecture or presentation has concluded, please touch the power button on the media control panel to turn off the projector(s) and shut down the classroom AV system.