If you are having an event coming up, chances are you have rented or acquired audiovisual equipment to project, record, or stream activities and information for your audience.
This article will help you with how to operate audio visual equipment. More so, we will help you understand the basics of audiovisual technology for any event setup.
Preparing For An Event
In holding an event, a class, or a meeting, you don’t get right into plugging wires and operating the machines. It is best to plan and understand what audiovisual technology could do to achieve the purpose of your activity.
Importantly, you will need to plan how the audiovisual equipment should be rolled in and out of the venue, and structured to give the best results.
If you are holding a meeting or a class in a boardroom or classroom, there might already be available equipment such as a projector and projector screen. You may bring in a video source such as a laptop, speakers, and a mic. If you plan to record the proceedings, you should have a video camera or audio-recorded and a tripod. Live streaming will require you to have high-speed Internet access.
However, if you are holding a big event in a large venue, much work will be done to get all the necessary equipment. You can hire a third-party audiovisual provider or stick with the in-house audiovisual team. These suppliers do not only rent out equipment; they also deploy technicians that will operate the machines for you.
It depends on your needs, preferences, and budget.
How To Operate Basic Audiovisual Equipment
This is a simple guide that you can follow on how to operate audiovisual equipment.
Projector
The procedure by which you should operate any machine shall depend on its model and brand. If it is your first time to operate one, it is best to consult the product manual.
These are basic steps on how to operate a projector:
- Make sure the projector is in a strategic area at the right distance to the projector screen. Make sure there would not be anything that will not block the view of the audience.
- Connect the wires to the video source and to the power outlet.
- Press the On button on the control panel.
- The projector will warm up for a few seconds, manifested by the power button flashing for 30 seconds. Do not do anything at this time as the control panel is still locked out.
- Press the button corresponding to the display source you wish to view on the screen.
- Once your source and projector screen have the same visuals, check if the proportion of the screen width and height is appropriate. Adjust accordingly using components on the control panel.
Speakers
Remember, it is best to read the product manual or ask for assistance if you are doubtful about operating any machine. Here are the basic steps in operating the sound components of your audiovisual equipment.
- Turn on your laptop, PC, or video source.
- Secure the appropriate wires and plugs for your sound equipment.
- Plug speakers into the proper connection or hub. This is often labeled with a headphone or speaker symbol.
- Access Control Panel on your laptop/PC.
- Click Hardware and Sound; then click Manage Audio Devices link.
- Click the Properties button.
- A Speakers Properties Dialogue Box will pop up. Click the Levels tab.
- To adjust the speaker volume, use the Speakers/Headphone slider.
- If you see a red X on the speaker button, click it to activate your speakers.
- In the Balance dialogue box, use the left and right sliders to balance the volume of your speakers.
- Save the new settings and close all dialogue boxes.
Conclusion
How to operate audiovisual equipment will be easy if you follow the manufacturer’s instructions or seek assistance from people with technical know-how. If you are renting audiovisual equipment, familiarize yourself with the terms in the contract. Coordinate with the audiovisual team about your goals. Find out more about audio equipment here!