Introduction
This document explains the equipment, usage instructions, and features for the Portable Multimedia/Video Conferencing Carts. It aims to provide end users with an understanding of how to use the cart. The Portable Multimedia Video Conferencing (PMVC) Carts have been deployed to many locations on campus to enhance the educational infrastructure and support the evolving technology needs of students. Each cart comes equipped with a large screen high-resolution monitor, a web camera, and a computer, and can be moved to various locations in a building as needed. This setup is designed to facilitate remote learning, group projects, virtual meetings, and other academic activities that require real-time video interaction.
Locations
Portable Multimedia/Video Conferencing Carts are currently located at the following locations and managed by their respective departments and offices (As of 1/10/24):
- Adams Library
- Adams Library 1FL (Career Development Center)
- Alger Hall (School of Business)
- Alex and Ani 2nd Floor Lounge (Art Department)
- Central Falls Workforce Development Hub (In Progress)
- Fogarty Life Science (Biology Department Student Lounge)
- Fogarty Life Science/Zvart Onanian School of Nursing (Nursing Student Lounge)
- Donovan Dining Center (Unity Center)
- Guardo Hall Conference Room (School of Social Work)
- Horace Mann (Feinstein School of Education)
- Murray Center (Health and Physical Education)
- Roberts Hall (Music, Theatre, and Dance Department)
- Whipple Hall 200 Conference Room (Communications Department)
Usage/Reservations
Each department or office with a Portable Multimedia/Video Conferencing Cart governs the reservation and use of the carts. A RIC Rooms/EMS reservation or IT Service Request is not required for the use of a PMVC. Please contact the respective department or office to receive additional information on availability and usage.
Equipment
Each Portable Multimedia Video Conferencing (PMVC) Cart contains the following equipment:
1A. Logitech MeetUp camera and microphone
1B. Samsung 75” screen
1C. Keyboard and mouse (with extension cables)
1D. Power cable
Additional equipment provided but not pictured:
Dell OptiPlex Desktop Computer (wi-fi enabled)
Power Strip/Surge Protector
Samsung TV Remote
Logitech Meetup Camera Remote
The Portable Multimedia/Video Conferencing Cart may come with a key or magnet style latch to keep the front cart door closed.
Instructions
Power-On
Please follow these steps to power-on and use the PMVC:
- Plug the power cable into the nearest outlet
- Wait for the PMVC to reach the RIC sign in page
- Sign into the PMVC computer with the username and password provided at each cart.
- Once signed in, use the PMVC like a normal computer. Applications such as Microsoft Office and Zoom have been pre-installed.
Power-Off
Please follow these steps to power-off the PMVC:
1. Select the Windows icon on the bottom left to open the Start Menu on the PMVC computer.
1A. Select Power.
1B. Select Shut Down.
2. Wait for the PMVC computer to power down completely. Then unplug the PMVC and store it in a secure location.
Connecting a Laptop (Optional)
Some PMVC have the optional capability of allowing a laptop to be connected to the display. Please follow these steps to connect the laptop to the PMVC display using the Samsung Remote Control provided:
1. Plug the PMVC power cable into the nearest electric outlet.
2. Plug the laptop into the appropriate cable on the PMVC display.
3. Select the Source button on the Samsung remote.
4. Use the left and right arrow keys to go between sources.
5. Select the OK button to choose the source
6. If this is not the correct source, repeat steps 3-5.
Additional Information
1. The keyboard and mouse can both be pulled away from the cart for ease of use.
2. The Logitech MeetUp camera automatically moves its camera to follow users during virtual meetings.
3. In most cases, the only user action needed to start and log into the PMVC is to plug the power cable into the nearest power outlet. The display and computer should turn on automatically.
4. The Samsung Remote is usually not needed to make any adjustments.
5. The Logitech MeetUp remote is usually not needed to make any adjustments.
6. Anyone, including non-RIC users, can use the PMVC by signing in with the local account.
7. The local PMVC account username and password are provided on the cart.
Troubleshooting/Support
1. The PMVC computer may occasionally request software updates be installed. Please allow them to install to completion before use.
2. Please make sure power has been provided to the PMVC by verifying it has been plugged into an outlet, even if it has not been moved recently.
Service Requests
Technical Support and Service for the Portable Multimedia Video Conferencing carts is provided by the ITS Help Center. Contact (401) 456-8803 or helpdesk@ric.edu for assistance during normal business hours. In addition, you can fill out a self-service request from the Service Center client portal at this link: