AV Engineering Services
Classroom Multimedia Systems
MSS engineers design and install multimedia presentation systems for classrooms, meeting rooms and other special-use facilities on both campuses. In the case of classrooms, systems can be split into three levels of increasing sophistication and complexity:
- Basic Classroom: A teaching space that contains minimal audiovisual equipment and requires limited technological knowledge to operate and maintain. In most cases, these rooms contain simply an overhead projector and wall screen. Any additional equipment would be brought by the instructor (whether personal devices, departmental equipment or items from the MSS circulating collection).
- Limited Media Classroom: Contains the equipment listed above, with the addition of a VCR and Television for playback of video taped materials. While some of these rooms provide for multi-format playback, the current University standard is VHS. Some rooms are also connected to the University-wide CCTV system, enabling users to view non-VHS format tapes and other programming transmitted via our "head-end" facilities."
- Multimedia "SMART" Classroom: Standard capabilities include data and VHS video projection, dual slide projection, network connections, sound systems, and a remote control system for easy operation of all presentation devices, motorized screens and sound levels. Some locations include dedicated computers, whereas others provide remote ports allowing the connection of an individual laptop or desktop machine. All of the larger spaces include a wireless hard of hearing system as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act and individuals using the smaller rooms may borrow portable versions through MSS.
In all instances, MSS provides the rooms with all the bulbs and accessories needed to operate the equipment.
About Multimedia Remote Control Systems
Today's multimedia technology allows for fully integrated remote control systems, through which multiple devices may be controlled by a user from a central point. MSS staff are integrating this technology into University classrooms, combining the latest generation of remote control systems and equipment to create simple yet seamless interfaces for the end user.
In a typical system, a centrally located mini-computer is connected to multiple presentation devices in a room. Commands are sent from the central unit to the various devices by means of a software program specially customized for use with the equipment in that particular room. The user interface may involve either push-button panels or state-of-the-art touch-screen technology, working from a stationary control console, portable hand-held control unit, or both.
Many recently renovated classrooms utilize these remote control systems, placing complete and easy control of VCR's, room lighting, large screen video projection equipment, slide projectors and audio sound systems literally at a presenter's fingertips.
