How to Connect Your Laptop to Equipment in a COL Room
This guide explains how to connect your laptop to the COL system so that your screen content is displayed on the projector, included in the lecture recording, and so that you may access the Internet.
Cables at the Instruction Desk
At the front of the room, the instruction desk will have one or more cables available for connecting your laptop to the system:
HDMI Cable
The HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) cable is the most commonly available connection in COL rooms. It transmits both video and audio into the COL system. Most laptops made in the last five years are equipped with an HDMI port. If your laptop lacks an HDMI port, you'll need to bring your own adapter to connect the cable.
To connect via HDMI:
- Insert the HDMI cable into your laptop.
- If the room has a Crestron touch panel, tap "INSTRUCTOR HDMI" to project the display.
- In rooms without a Crestron touch panel, the laptop display should automatically appear on the projector within a few moments of connection.
Note: COL does not provide HDMI adapters; bring one if needed.
Audio Cable
In some rooms, typically those with external speakers, you may also find a 3.5mm audio cable. This cable must be connected to your laptop’s headphone jack to allow audio from your device to play through the room’s speakers.
To connect the audio cable:
- Insert the 3.5mm plug into your laptop's headphone jack.
- Push the cable in as far as it will go to ensure proper audio output.
Note: You might hear some clicks or pops when connecting the cable—this is normal and will stop once the connection is secure.
VGA Cable
The VGA (Video Graphics Array) connector is mainly used for older devices. It only transmits video, so you’ll need the audio cable for sound.
To connect via VGA:
- Insert the VGA cable into your laptop’s VGA port and tighten the retention screws to secure it.
- If the room has a Crestron touch panel, tap "INSTRUCTOR VGA" to project the display.
In rooms without a Crestron touch panel, the laptop screen will appear on the projector a few moments after connection.
Important: VGA only supports video. Use the 3.5mm audio cable for sound.
Tip: Whenever possible, use the HDMI cable for both video and audio.
Ethernet Cable
Some classrooms also have an Ethernet cable for wired Internet access. If you are unable to connect to the University’s Wi-Fi, use the Ethernet cable to get online.
To connect via Ethernet:
- Insert the Ethernet cable into your laptop’s Ethernet port, or use an Ethernet-to-USB adapter if needed.
- To disconnect, press down on the tab to release the cable.
Locating the Cables
Laptop cables may be stored in one of these locations around the instruction desk:
Laid on the Desk
The cables may simply be placed on top of the desk for easy access.
Under an Outlet Cover
If the cables are stored under an outlet cover, gently pull up to extend the cables.
Important: Do not unplug the data cable connecting the Crestron Touch Panel to the system.
In a Cable Retainer
Pull the needed connectors upwards to extend their cabling.
Do you need more help? Contact the COL Operations Center.