MacBook to Classroom AV Connection Guide: Quick Reference for Faculty

Modified on: 2/27/26

MacBook to Classroom AV Connection Guide

Quick Reference for Faculty

Requirements

Modern MacBooks use USB-C ports (small, oval-shaped ports on the sides). You'll use a USB-C (blue) or HDMI (orange)(with adapter) cable, located on top of the lectern, to connect to classroom projectors.

USB-C PORTS

Look for small, oval-shaped ports on the left/right sides of your MacBook

Any USB-C port works for video!

⚠️ Users are responsible for bringing adapters!⚠️

Instructions

MacBook → HDMI (with adapter) or USB-C Cable → Projector

  1. Plug the USB-C or HDMI (with adapter) cable into any USB-C port on your MacBook
  2. Using the touch panel, turn on the projector and select the correct USB-C or HDMI input if needed

 

Mirror Your Display

To display the same content on your laptop and the projector:

Quick Method: Press ⌘ (Command) + Space Bar to access Spotlight Search→ Type “Displays” → Use as “Mirror for Generic_HDMI”

Manual Method: Apple menu → System Settings → Displays → Use as “Mirror for Generic_HDMI”

 

Select Audio Output

To play audio through classroom speakers:

Quick Method: Press ⌘ (Command) + Space Bar to access Spotlight Search → Type “Sound” → Output → Select "Generic_HDMI” or “AV System”

Manual Method: Apple menu → System Settings → Sound → Output → Select “Generic_HDMI” or “AV System”

⚠️ Always test audio before class starts!⚠️

Quick Troubleshooting

No picture?

  • Ensure all connections are secure
  • Verify projector is on
  • Select the correct HDMI or USB-C input on the touch panel
  • Try mirroring displays

No sound?

  • Confirm “AV System", “Extron” or the connected display device is the selected audio output (click speaker icon)
  • Check classroom volume is up on touch panel
  • Ensure audio is not muted on your laptop

Display issues?

  • Try a different port (HDMI vs USB-C)
  • Disconnect and reconnect cable
  • Restart your device while connected to the AV system

Quick Reference

SETUP CHECKLIST

1. Connect USB-C or HDMI (with adapter) cable to MacBook

2. Turn on projector

3. Mirror display

4. Select sound output

5. Test audio

Need help? Contact Classroom Technology Services:

Phone: 610-519-7777 (Option 1)

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