Problem: The podium HDMI cable to my MacBook is loose; signal drops out; no signal
Solution 1a: If they are using a 2022 or newer MacBook (most full-time faculty are), make sure they are NOT using the USB-C to HDMI adapter. Instead, disconnect the adapter and use the HDMI cable straight into the HDMI port of the MacBook (right side).
Solution 1b: For Macs without an HDMI port, try a different USB-C to HDMI adapter. Notify AV Services afterward if this fixes the problem (the security tether will need to be replaced).
Solution 2: Escalate to IT Help Desk
Problem: My new MacBook video goes black, the projector drops out, and/or the display shuts off after only a few minutes.
Solution: Adjust your default battery settings to prevent the display from turning off.
-- For macOS 13 (Ventura): Go to System Preferences → Lock Screen, then change the "Turn Display Off..." timers to longer periods of time.
See also: Change Lock Screen settings on Mac - Apple Support
-- For macOS 12 (Monterey) and earlier: Go to System Preferences → Battery, then choose Battery in the left sidebar.
Change the “Turn display off after” slider to a longer period of time (the default setting is only 3 minutes!)
See also: Change Battery preferences on a Mac notebook - Apple Support
Problem: No image on monitor from Mac Mini
Please note that the monitor is directly connected to the Mac Mini. There is a second video output from the Mac Mini that feeds the projection system. This configuration means it could be a couple of things:
- If there is no image at all on the monitor, check the cables on the back of the monitor to be sure they're not loose.
- If there is still no image, you may need to reboot or force a shutdown on the Mac Mini by pressing and holding the power button. There have been times when the Mac will drop one of the two video connections, and rebooting typically restores functionality.
- If you see an image on the monitor (like the desktop background) but no login screen or anything else, then the monitor is likely configured in Extended Desktop mode. This means the primary monitor is set to be the projector. You will have to turn on the projector and change the display settings from Extended back to Mirroring so that the projector and monitor show the same thing. See also: https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/extend-mirror-mac-desktop-multiple-displays-mchlb5f905a1/14.0/mac/14.0