Table of contents
What is PC Extend
Many classrooms are equipped with a source called PC Extend. This source acts as a second screen/monitor for the classroom computer. Instructors can display content to two separate displays from the classroom computer by utilizing both the PC Main and PC Extend buttons. This feature also enables Presenter View mode in PowerPoint, which allows the teacher to be able to see their notes, upcoming slides and timer on PC Main, while the class only sees the current presentation slide on the PC Extend screen.
How to use PowerPoint with PC Extend
On your 1st class using PowerPoint on the classroom computer in a room with PC Extend, use the below instructions to check that your PowerPoint slide show settings are compatible with how you want to use the system. The classroom computer will remember your settings until the computer is replaced or cleared at the end of the spring semester due to yearly maintenance.
Use 2 screens for Presenter View
- Turn on AV system using the touch panel.
- Open your PowerPoint in Microsoft PowerPoint.
- Click the Slide Show tab at the top of the screen.
- Look at the Monitor section and select the Use Presenter View box and confirm that Monitor is set to Automatic.
- On the AV touch panel in the room press PC Extend then Projector.
- Start your PowerPoint presentation.
Use 1 screen for Duplicate Mode
- Turn on AV system using the touch panel.
- Open your PowerPoint in Microsoft PowerPoint.
- Click the Slide Show tab at the top of the screen.
- Look at the Monitor section and select the Use Presenter View box and confirm that Monitor is set to Automatic.
- Start your PowerPoint presentation. At the top of the presenter Screen click Display Settings.
- Select Duplicate Slide Show.
Common issues
- You can lose track of your cursor on the second screen. If this occurs, drag your mouse in a straight horizontal line. Try dragging towards the left side of the desk for at least 2 long drags. If this doesn’t work try the opposite direction.
- If you don’t check the PowerPoint slide show settings before you begin your presentation, it can result in opening the presentation on only PC Extend. This will look like PowerPoint has failed. If this occurs, send PC Extend to the Monitor, click the presentation and then press ESC on the keyboard to end the presentation. Check your slide show settings and restart your presentation.
Get support
- For immediate help in General Purpose Classrooms, call DIT Classroom Support at 301.405.2500 (x52500).
- Email classrooms@umd.edu to report a problem or to schedule training.
- For more information on classrooms, go to classrooms.umd.edu.