FAQ
This FAQ should address your questions about using technology in the classrooms. For specific instructions by room, please see the Classroom Guides.
General Information
What do I need to bring into the classrooms?
Touch panels, projectors, cameras and room microphones are provided as part of the standard audio-visual technology. You will need to bring any additional equipment including:
- Laptop, tablet, or other touch-enabled device. If teaching in a hybrid or remote modality ensure your lapto has the Zoom app installed and configured.
- Your own multiport adapter for HDMI and/or USB ports if connecting with an Apple device
- Your own cable for a wired (ethernet) connection if you want to connect to the campus wired network (available in most registrar spaces)
Network Access
Can I use a wired (ethernet) network connection in the classrooms?
Many registrar spaces have outlets to support a wired (ethernet) cable connection to the campus wired network. You will need to bring your own CAT 5e cable.
Is there adequate Wi-Fi in the classrooms?
Wireless connectivity is provided across all campus buildings and in many outdoor areas. CMU-SECURE is the preferred wireless network for students, faculty and staff and will be listed in your available networks if you are on campus. If you are having issues with your wireless connection, please contact the Computing Service Help Center at it-help@cmu.edu or 412-268-4357 (HELP) and include the date and room/location.
What internet recommendations do you have if I'm teaching remotely?
See our off campus internet configuration recommendations for the best experience.
Hybrid/Remote Devices and Sharing
Can I use screen mirroring via AirPlay to show my iPad or iPhone during my class?
If teaching in a hybrid or remote modality, Zoom allows for iOS screen sharing from iPhone and iPad using the Zoom desktop client. Visit Sharing your screen (iOS) with the Zoom Desktop Client for more information.
Can I share a camera view of both the instructor and students at the same time?
Yes. A dual camera option is available in all hybrid classrooms using the integrated web camera on your laptop (for a view of the instructor) and the Huddly GO or USB Capture SDI+ conference camera (for a view of the students).
- Adjust the conference camera to point to the students in the classroom.
- Click Share Screen from within the Zoom meeting.
- Select Advanced and then select Content from 2nd camera.
- Click Share.
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Switch between the cameras by clicking Switch Camera at the top left.
Note: If you have more than two cameras connected, select conference camera in your classroom and then click Share.
Troubleshoot
Common issues and troubleshooting instructions for classroom technology are listed below.
IMPORTANT! If you're teaching in a hybrid or remote modality, update the Zoom application to ensure you have the latest features and security enhancements for teaching.
Sound and/or Video Issues
Connect to the room technology using the HDMI and USB cables.
- To share your audio and video with in-person students, check that the HDMI cable is connected to your laptop to use the touch panel and room projector.
- To share your audio and video with remote students, check that the USB cable is connected to your laptop to use the conference camera and room microphone.
If you are still without sound or video, check the following:
- The USB hub under (or within) the lectern (standard classrooms) to make sure that both the conference camera and room microphone are fully connected.
- The Zoom meeting to make sure that the meeting is connected to audio, and then click the Unmute and Start Video buttons.
- The room microphone to make sure that it is not muted. If the room microphone is muted, it will not show as muted in your Zoom meeting.