ATS Media Services at Michigan State University

Need Assistance? 353-3960

Technology Classrooms contain the following hardware:

 

Technology Carts

Technology carts contain essential pieces of hardware enabling "technology to happen" in the classroom. Each cart contains multi-inputs and outputs for projection of both data (computer) and video sources. A computer switch box allows the use of both built-in "PC" and a "guest" (laptop) computer. The built-in VCR/DVD player projects both videotape and campus cable playback in the classroom. The amplifier provides sound for both computer and video sources and a built-in monitor displays computer images. Some locations may also contain other types of equipment such as document cameras.

What's in the cart...

 

 

Computers

The majority of the Technology Classrooms are equipped with Dell Pentium PC's. A limited number of rooms are equipped with Macintosh computers. The computers are configured to connect to the campus network so that an instructor may access the World Wide Web, connect to his or her AFS space, or make use of other network resources. The software configuration is the same as is in the University microlabs.

Standard on PC systems:

  • Pentium 4 Processor
  • 512 MB RAM
  • CD-RW/DVD-ROM Drive
  • LCD Monitor with built-in USB ports
  • Floppy Disk Drive
  • Windows XP OS
  • Microsoft Office and many other applications

 

Standard on Macintosh:

  • G5 Processor
  • 512 MB RAM
  • CD-RW/DVD-ROM Drive
  • LCD monitor with built-in USB ports
  • MAC OS X
  • Microsoft Office and many other applications

 

 

 

Computer Switch Box

The computer switch box is used to select the display mode between the built-in "PC" or an external laptop computer. Select number 1 for the built-in "PC", and number 2 when using an external laptop.

  

 

 

VCR

The VCR/DVD "combo" units in the Technology Classrooms include "high end" features such as advanced still-frame and frame-by-frame advance features, and other standard DVD playback features.

 

  

 

Auxillary Control Panel

This panel is used for connecting a laptop computer to the cart. The VGA cable is permanently attached to the panel which connects to the "video-out" port of the laptop. In addition, there are audio and video inputs located on the panel for connection of a variety of media equipment.

Please note: The carts are not platform dependent... a "PC" laptop may be connected to a "MAC" cart, and a "MAC" laptop may be connected to a "PC" cart.

 

 

Amplifier

An amplifier is located in a majority of the carts. The amplifier controls the sound volume of the computer, the VCR/DVD unit, microphone (where applicable), and other video sources. There are individual controls for each device as well as a "master" volume control.

 

 

 

 

Quick Reference Guide

A quick Reference Guide is located on the side of each cart. Instructions for using the carts, media equipment, and the video/data projectors are included.

What's in the room...

 

 

Video/Data Projectors

High brightness video/data projectors are permanently mounted in the technology classrooms. All classrooms with computers are capable of outputting 1024x768 (XGA) data resolution. Video resolution of 500 to 600 lines is standard.

 

 

Overhead Projectors

All technology rooms are equipped with overhead projectors. Overheads in large classrooms and auditoriums feature high-intensity lamps, color tuning dials and A/C power outlets. All overheads include a built-in lamp changer function.

Click here for some helpful tips on operating various types of media equipment in the classroom.

 

 

 For assistance please contact:

Last Updated Mar 12th, 2009