Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to receive training before using the Integrated Teaching System (ITS) in a classroom?
No, but it is highly recommended, especially if you have not used one of our systems before. Please go to our Training & Code Request page in the left-hand navigation to request training. If you are not interested in training, we encourage you to review your particular classroom's web page and the associated online documentation.
Can I give the code to my students so that they can rehearse their class presentation on their own time?
No. We must keep this expensive equipment secure and in working order. The only way to accomplish this is to restrict access to faculty and staff who have contacted Classroom Technology Support for the code. If instructors wish to allow students to use the ITS for their presentations, it must be done under direct instructor supervision.
Is there a wireless controller for clicking through PowerPoint slides?
We do not supply wireless mice or other wireless devices. However, if instructors are interested in using such an item in a particular ITS classroom we may be able to support it as long as it is USB-compatible. USB allows for hot-swapping, meaning that devices can be added and removed without having to turn off the power. If it is necessary to install drivers or additional software for the device, please contact us within 10 working days of your class session to allow for enough time to complete the installation.
Can I install some of my own programs on the computers in the ITS classrooms?
If an instructor or department either owns the software package, has a licensing agreement or the program is freeware, it is likely that we can install the program. Our computer staff will need to examine the application closely to make sure it will not degrade the system in any way. In addition, instructors will need to provide enough time for the Classroom Support staff to complete an installation.
Please fill out an on-line software request form to expedite your installation. Time is limited during normal classroom hours because the ITS classrooms are used heavily during the day. We ask that you provide us with enough time before the start of a semester to complete our work. Two weeks is usually enough time.
Can I play DVDs in any of the ITS classrooms?
All of the ITS classrooms are currently equipped with DVD players whether it be in the resident computer (if equipped) or a stand alone player. Data DVDs created with DVD-R and DVD-RW drives can occasionally present problems, so it is always best to test your DVD on the classroom computer before you need to use it. This is also true for CDs. While there are no Blu-ray players in any of the ITS classrooms, there are HDMI inputs to plug in your own in select rooms.
Can teaching assistants receive training on the ITS equipment and codes as well?
Yes, in fact many instructors ask their TAs to manage the presentation system entirely.
I've started up the system and nothing is projecting on the screen. What should I do?
Before calling Classroom Technology Support for assistance, switch to a different device other than the one you intend to use, wait three seconds, then switch back to your device. If this does not work, shut down the system completely and re-start. Check to make sure that the computer is powered on (and awake by pressing any key) or the Picture Mute button is not depressed.
If you would like someone to come to your room to troubleshoot and attempt to repair during class, call us immediately. Keep in mind that in the uncommon event that there is a problem with the projection system it may require more than fifteen minutes to resolve.
If you discover any problem with the ITS classroom, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can attempt to make a repair before the next classroom user arrives.
I'm trying to use the microphone but I'm getting no sound. What should I do?
First, make sure the volume is turned up to the maximum level. If you are in a classroom with a touch panel control system, make sure the Mute button is not depressed. If you are using the wireless microphone, change the battery. Extra batteries are typically provided in a wooden box attached to the inside of the cabinet.
If none of these strategies work, call us at 333-8165. Again, as with any reported problem, let us know if you are reporting the problem so we can attempt to resolve it after your class or if you would like a staff member to attempt a repair during your class session.
I try to display my handouts on the visual presenter but they either look blurry or I cannot get the whole page to show up. What is the purpose of the camera if I cannot show my text?
Many instructors are under the impression that the visual presenter is a modern replacement for the transparency projector. This is not the case. Transparency projectors are very useful instructional tools and are provided in every general assignment classroom on campus.
Ideally, visual presenters can be used to display circuit boards, insects, tools, fabric, or objects of art. Anything that otherwise would have been passed around the room for individual examination can instead be displayed through the visual presenter. Many of the older visual presenters use the same visual standard as what is used by your television set, what is known as the NTSC standard. It is also using the same aspect ratio, which is why the screen is displaying in landscape mode rather than portrait.
Examine the features of your document closely before displaying them on the visual presenter. If they don't appear to be something that would look good on your television screen, they probably won't look good coming through the projector either.
Is wireless networking available in ITS classrooms?
Wireless is currenlty available in all ITS classrooms. There are typically two sign in options via either UIUCnet or IllinoisNet. There are advantages and disadvantages to both. For more information please visit the Wireless Access at Urbana-Champaign page.
Who designs and builds the audio/visual systems in the technology enhanced classrooms on campus?
The Classroom & Conference Media Engineering division (CCME) of CITES provides creative, technical, and consulting services in an effort to achieve the primary objective of strengthening the teaching-learning process. Additionally, CCME provides preventative maintenance and/or repairs of audio, video, and related equipment whenever possible on a fee basis. Please visit the CITES CCME website for more information.