Overview
Most classrooms in Cornell’s College of Arts & Sciences are set up with a Teaching Station that supports laptop connections via USB-C and HDMI. Choosing the correct cable type ensures seamless display and audio output to the projector and speakers. This guide explains the differences between USB-C and HDMI, when to use each option, and how to troubleshoot common connection issues.
USB-C vs. HDMI: Key Differences
USB-C Connection (Preferred)
-
Features:
- Carries video, audio, and USB data to classroom systems.
- Provides access to the room’s Chat 170 microphone, making it ideal for Zoom captions or lecture capture.
- Offers a single connection for simplicity—no need to connect USB-A separately for the mic.
-
When to Use:
- Your laptop has a USB-C port that supports DisplayPort alt-mode (required for video output).
- You need microphone functionality for Zoom or Teams.
-
Common Issues:
- Not all USB-C ports support video. If you’re unsure, consult your device manual or test with HDMI as a fallback.
- Some multi-port docks/USB hubs may interfere with the AV system; try connecting directly to the USB-C cable.
HDMI Connection
-
Features:
- Carries video and audio, but does not provide access to USB data (e.g., the Chat 170 microphone won’t appear).
-
When to Use:
- Your laptop does not have a USB-C port, or its USB-C port does not support video output.
- You do not need microphone functionality for lecture capture or Zoom.
-
Common Issues:
- If using an adapter to connect HDMI, ensure the adapter supports video and audio passthrough. Not all adapters do.
- HDMI does not carry USB data, so you’ll need to connect the cubby’s USB-A cable separately to access the Chat 170 microphone.
Connecting Your Laptop
Step 1: Select your cable
- Connect USB-C to your laptop (preferred if available and compatible).
- If USB-C is unavailable or unsupported, connect HDMI instead.
Step 2: Reseat cables
- Ensure the cable is firmly plugged in at both the laptop and the Teaching Station cubby.
Step 3: Select input on the touch panel
- The system usually defaults to Auto Input Detection. If visual or audio output doesn’t begin, tap the hamburger menu on the touch panel and select the correct input:
- USB-C for USB-C cables.
- HDMI for HDMI cables.
Troubleshooting Connection Issues
No Image on the Projector
- Confirm the cable is securely connected at both ends.
- Switch Input: Tap the hamburger menu on the touch panel and manually select USB-C or HDMI.
- Replace/Different Cable: If USB-C doesn’t work, test HDMI (or vice versa).
- Laptop Display Mode:
- Windows: Press Windows+P and select Duplicate or Extend.
- Mac: Go to System Settings > Displays > select Mirror or Extend Desktop and detect displays manually if needed.
No Sound From Speakers
- Verify volume settings: Raise volume on the touch panel and ensure Mute is off.
- Check laptop output device settings: Ensure HDMI or USB-C is selected for audio.
- If connected via HDMI and you need microphone functionality, plug in the USB-A cable from the cubby for access to Chat 170.
Common Tips
- Adapters/Docks: If using adapters or multi-port docks, ensure they support video and audio passthrough. Direct connections to USB-C or HDMI cables are preferred when troubleshooting connection issues.
- Backup Option: If one cable type fails, test the other (e.g., switch from USB-C to HDMI).
What To Do if the Problem Persists
If you cannot get your laptop to connect properly, contact the AV Helpdesk immediately.
Fastest Option: Submit a request online via the QR code on the projector splash screen or at av.as.cornell.edu.
Phone: Call (607) 882-1646 for assistance.
Email: Send a message to as-avhelp@cornell.edu.
Support Hours: Weekdays, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Technicians can often begin remote troubleshooting right away and dispatch a tech to your classroom within approximately 10 minutes.