Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to "Dock" your device?
At the front of each classroom near the computer monitor will be a USB-C cable that you can plug into the side of your device. That cable connects to a dock that will then have all the classroom IT plugged into it: Network, monitor, projector, keyboard, mouse, webcam, microphone etc... Which ever device is plugged into the dock will be able to use all of the equipment at the front of that classroom. One cable to rule them all!
For admin staff your existing computer will be removed and replaced with a USB-C dock. Your monitors, keyboard and mouse will stay exactly how it is already and you will plug your device into the dock when you need to use the monitors etc...
How can I use the device
- Stand Alone - great for when you need to be mobile or just need some quick work done
- Docked at a desk with monitors - Plug into a USB-C dock, shut the lid and use the projector, monitors, keyboard and mouse as if you were using a normal computer.
- Docked at the front of a classroom - In this mode you plug your device in with a single cable at the front of the class and can then use the monitor, projector, speakers, mouse, keyboard, webcam and microphone that currently exist. This is great for work where you want multiple screens.
- Wirelessly with just the projector - In this mode you can mirror the screen on your device to the projector. This is great for allowing you to work anywhere in the classroom, however, this mode only lets you use the projector and the speakers.
How will the monitor and projector and device screens all work when plugged in?
- Same picture on all screens - This is the easiest option and will just show the same picture on all screens
- Extended on all screens - Use all three screens for different tasks, this will be great for power users who want to use the different screens for different tasks but may take some getting used to.
- Projector and device showing the same picture, monitor separate. - This will be great for those who want to use the digital inking on your Surface device to drive the projector screen. Art and visual subjects in particular!
What if I leave it at home?
Visit Network Services who will give you a loan device for the day.
What happens if it gets lost, damaged or stolen?
Report it as soon as possible! Firstly we will make sure you have a loan device so you can continue to teach and perform your role. We will then repair or replace the damaged device. We understand that accidents happen and the School will not penalise staff, we do however reserve the right to recover some of the costs of repair or replacement if the damage or loss was deliberate.
What about charging during the day?
The devices should be capable of running on battery power for at least 4 hours of heavy use. All of the devices will charge whist docked so as long as you dock your device 2-3 times a day, you should have plenty of battery life to last.
What about visiting Guests or Speakers?
If you are hosting a guest or a speaker you will need to make your device available for them to use if they need to use the projector or classroom facilities. They can login to your device with the existing guest presenter logins just like a normal computer.