AV how-to
Last updated: January 2016
There's an (outdated) description of the current audio system under AV Setup
Projector and PiMC
Basics
The projector is connected to an HDMI switcher. Be sure to set the correct channel. The current channels:
- User (plug in your own device)
- WiiU
- PiMC
Turn on the projector by hitting the power button. It will automatically display the HDMI channel. Sound via HDMI will automatically be output to the speakers, do not unplug the aux cable from the projector. Adjust the volume on your device first then adjust the system volume using the big knob on the box to the left of the projector.
PiMC
Pi Media Center is a fork (not actually, but soon) of OSMC - Open Source Media Center. PiMC manages and plays movies and music, either locally or by streaming from sources. Please see the PiMC page for details on its usage. To navigate the PiMC menus go to pimedia.mit.edu on any browser (smartphone recommended) and use the remote feature.
Using Your Own Device
Channel 1 on the HDMI switcher is for using your own device. Find the HDMI cable attached to channel 1 and connect it to your device. Be sure to set the HDMI switcher to channel 1. Audio will be output automatically, do not remove the aux cable from the projector.
Using VGA
Stop. Reflect on your choices. VGA is old. Use PiMC or an HMDI compatible device.
WiiU
Set the HDMI switcher to channel 2, operate the WiiU as normal
Legacy (Ancient History from 2009)
Basics
The television should always be set to Video 1.
The main receiver (Pioneer) controls most devices on 3W.
The secondary receiver (Technics) controls audio output to the rest of the floor.
To watch satellite television
Make sure the television and satellite box (DirectTV) are on. The receiver input should be dialed to TV/SAT. The satellite box has controls to change channel.
To play VHS
The receiver should be dialed to VCR/DVR.
To play a CD/DVD
The receiver should be dialed to DVD/LD. Turn on the television.
To listen to music from piwest.mit.edu
Use alsamixer to control which rooms hear music. Front is TV lounge. Side is Munroe bathroom. LFE is the kitchen area. The main receiver should be dialed to CD. Side and LFE are amplified from the secondary receiver (Technics), which should be set to CD.
To play video games
Consoles are located beneath the projector. Games and controllers are on shelves or in boxes. The receiver should be dialed to AUX or you can use the projector's speakers.
To use the PC
A DVI cable runs to the projector (you must be in 1024x768 mode). For sound, the receiver should be dialed to CDR/TAPE.
To use the projector
All of the necessary cables should be hanging from the projector. The projector has a remote controller for changing settings.
To receive calls with the lounge phone
1-617-225-6749
DO NOT SWAP CABLES UNLESS YOU KNOW WHAT YOU ARE DOING.
REVERT TO THE ORIGINAL CONFIGURATION WHEN YOU ARE FINISHED.
ASK A PERMANENT RESIDENT FOR ASSISTANCE BEFORE EXPERIMENTING.
DO NOT MAKE A LOT OF NOISE AFTER MIDNIGHT.
TURN OFF EQUIPMENT WHEN YOU ARE FINISHED.
