Connecting Devices to AV System

>Meetinghouse Technology > Audio Video Distribution

Many meetinghouses are equipped with displays, such as television monitors and projectors, that leaders and members can use to present digital media in trainings or gospel teaching. Members may need to provide their own device adapters to connect to meetinghouse equipment. Where necessary, the technology specialist (TS), under the direction of the stake presidency, should work with the facilities management group (FGM) to plan the replacement of displays in the meetinghouse that are compatible with devices (laptops, tablets, mobile devices, and so on) commonly used to play back digital resources, including online videos.

STEP 1. DETERMINE NUMBER OF ATTENDEES 

Consider the following in determining how to show media using existing equipment:

CLASS SIZE	RECOMMENDED DISPLAY	RECOMMENDED AUDIO
Small (five or fewer)	Device only	Built-in speakers
Medium to large (classroom, children’s meeting room, Relief Society room)	Large-screen TV or projector	Built-in TV speakers or computer speakers
Extra-large (chapel)	Portable projector	Sound system using the  multiple-input adapter (crab box)

STEP 2. GATHER RECOMMENDED AUDIO/VIDEO EQUIPMENT

• Projector
• Screen
• TV
• DVD player
• Streaming box

STEP 3. HOOK UP DISPLAY INPUTS

It is strongly recommended that you download media on your playback device before using it.

Common Playback Devices 

• USB flash drive (Confirm that the TV or projector is compatible.)
• Laptop 
• Tablet 
• Mobile phone 
• DVD 
• Streaming devices (Apple TV, Android TV, Roku, and so on) 

Additional adapters may be required to connect these devices to the display.

The TS may want to consider labeling a TV’s USB ports to indicate whether they can support video playback. We do not recommend that teachers rely on meetinghouse internet to play videos live during a lesson. Many buildings do not have adequate bandwidth to support live video playback. Available bandwidth varies drastically based on location, time of day, and how many people are using it simultaneously.

STEP 4. TEST

Test media playback before use. Streaming media tests should be conducted in the meetinghouse during peak usage times.

CONNECTING TO A PROJECTOR OR TV FOR PLAYBACK

Connect the video from a PC or Mac to a TV or projector using one or more audiovisual patch cables. Confirm that the patch cable is appropriate for your device and the display. For additional help, refer to the owner’s manual for your device.

CONNECTING TO MEETINGHOUSE VIDEO SYSTEM

Meetinghouse video systems vary by age and region. Questions about the use of your system should be directed to your area support office or the Global Services Department (GSD).

BEST PRACTICES

Teachers should not rely on meetinghouse internet to play media live during a lesson. Many buildings do not have adequate bandwidth to support live video playback.

Available bandwidth varies drastically based on location, time of day, and how many people are using it simultaneously.

During important internet-based events, turn off wireless access points using Technology Manager and ensure that wired connections are not in use.