Using Computer Projectors

Media Services
Robert A. L. Mortvedt Library

• Continuous tone color images possible
  • Audience perceives movement as "very professional"
• Some animation and movement can be used
• No cost as compared to outputting slides and transparencies
• Projectors relatively easy to transport
• Display network materials from internet
• Can use audio and video in either analog or digital form

• Projector at back of room away from speaker
• Not as effective in a fully-lighted room
• No ability to modify slides and sequence during presentations
• Short lead time (minutes) for preparing files for presentation
• Potential connection/interface problems
• Potential for hardware/software failure

• Where will the presentation be located?
  • How large is the screen?
  • How many people can be seated?
  • How can the lighting/windows be adjusted?
• What computer projector will be used?
  • What is the resolution of the computer projector?
  • What is the brightness?
  • How large an image can be projected?
  • What is the distance from the computer projector to the screen?
  • Is a remote control available?
  • Is a spare lamp available?
• What computer will be interfaced to the projector?
  • What is the resolution of the computer display?
  • What cable(s) will be required to hook up to the computer projector?
• What interface cables will be needed?
  • Between the computer and computer projector
  • To the monitor
  • Between the computer and the network
• How many people will be in the audience?
• Do you have alternative plans (e.g. overhead projector and transparencies, slide projector and slides, or audience handouts) in case of equipment problem or failure?

Below are a few essential items that may make the difference between a successful and unsuccessful presentation using computer projection. These are especially important if you will be presenting in a room without access to audio-visual support services.

• Floppy Disk with Critical Files- In case you have a file that becomes damaged or unreadable, you will need backup files on floppy that can be reloaded.
• Spare Bulb - A spare bulb is always good insurance.
• Interface Cables - You may want spares in case of emergencies.
• Remote Control - This gives you leader so you can present away from the computer projector and still use the controls.
• Extension Cord - Rooms sometimes have the power outlets located in the most inconvenient locations. An extension cord may resolve such difficulties.
• Ungrounded Plug Adapter - Some rooms may not have three-prong grounded outlets. A two-prong adapter will allow you to use these older power outlets without damaging the overhead projector plug. Make sure you know how to change the bulb in case it burns out during your presentation. Do not touch the glass surface of bulbs with your fingers, but handle bulbs by their metal or porcelain bases.

Below is a table of common PowerPoint navigation keys used in slide show mode. Some functions may have more than one alternative.

Function	Windows v.4.X	Windows v.7.X	Macintosh v.4.X
Stop and Exit	[Escape]	[Escape]	[Escape] [Command] Period
Forward One Slide	Left Click [Spacebar] [Right Arrow]	Left Click [Spacebar] [Right Arrow]	Click [Spacebar] [Right Arrow]
Backward One Slide	Right Click [Left Arrow]	[Left Arrow]	[Command] Click [Left Arrow] [Delete]

• Use the Standby button on the remote control to black the screen. After 30 second the lamp goes out if you haven't pushed another button. Use the blank screen to focus attention
  • Focus attention on visual
  • Blank to focus attention on speaker
• Use the Computer button on the remote control to toggle between video and computer displays
• Use the Freeze button to halt or freeze the projected image. You can use this function to perform operations on the computer without the audience seeing.
• Use the Scribble button to use the mouse to write on the screen.
• Progressive disclosure
  • Reveal one point at a time
  • Add to lists on screen

Maintained by: Layne Nordgren (nordgrle@plu.edu)
Last Update: 10/26/98