USM's Basic Black Box Rooms

This will outline the details and basic tips and tricks for setting up Basic Black Box Rooms across USM campuses.

Details

There are many of these types of rooms located on all three campuses. They use a button controller to run the audiovisual system in the room. Other equipment may include:

• Computer
• LCD projector
• VHS/DVD or Blu-ray/DVD player
• Laptop Connection
• Speakers

Classroom Training Videos

• Operating Basic Black Box Rooms

Basic Troubleshooting

• Mouse and Keyboard
  • Neither are working.
    • Make sure both power switches are in the on position.
    • If both are turned on and still not operating, could be bad batteries. Give us a call and we'll come to you.
• Computer
  • In-room computer isn't displaying.
    • Confirm computer is turned on.
      • Computers power button will be illuminated.
    • Make sure PC is selected on the controller.
• Projector
  • Device isn't displaying.
    • Has the display been turned on via the controller on the Black Box?
    • Make sure proper input is selected. Try the other inputs as well.
      • Try changing inputs, then switch back to the "proper" input.
      • Some rooms have a projector mute button, make sure this isn't selected (if red, press the mute button again to turn off).
    • Make sure device is powered on.
    • Make sure device is awake by clicking the mouse, moving the mouse, and or pressing the space bar on the keyboard.
    • Double check device connections.
      • If using an adapter, try unplugging and re-plugging the connection.
      • If using HDMI or VGA directly, try unplugging and re-plugging the connection.
    • If above steps have been followed and your device is still not displaying, give us a call.
• Audio/Speakers
  • Can't hear sound.
    • Check the volume knob on the controller and confirm it is turned up (turning knob clockwise increases volume).
    • Check volume control of the device. Is it turned up all the way/muted?
    • If connected VGA
      • Is the headphone jack properly plugged in your computer as well as the Black Box?
      • Make sure proper audio output is selected within your audio settings of your device.
    • If connected HDMI
      • Is the HDMI properly plugged in?
      • Make sure proper audio output is selected within your audio settings of your device.
  • Crackling sound.
    • Make sure the connection is properly seated.

Having Zoom Room trouble?

Check out our article on Zoom Rooms for additional troubleshooting tips for camera and Zoom related issues.

Environment

• Basic Black Box Classrooms
• USM