Setup your Microphone
Recording on your own computer
Panopto requires a microphone to capture audio. Some computers, such as the iMac and most modern laptops, have a built-in microphone that is usually adequate for pre-recording lectures in your office.
If your computer does not have a microphone, you will need to procure one. We recommend a simple USB desktop microphone or headset or a webcam with a built-in microphone.
Recording in the classroom
Built-in microphones are typically not suitable for a classroom environment. For this reason, special tracker microphones have been installed in most lecture halls and large classrooms.

Tracker microphones are extremely sensitive. They're so named as they are able to zero in on a sound source anywhere within its range, allowing a speaker to move freely around the classroom. They're very useful for recording classroom discussions.
NOTE: In Lecture Halls 2 & 4, audio is captured directly from the room’s PA system, so either a body or handheld mic must be used.
Things to check before recording
1. Make sure the sound level is correct
- If the sound level is too low, the lecture will be difficult to hear. If levels are too high the sound will be distorted.
- Macintosh: Go to System Preferences > Sound > Input

- Windows:
- Go to Control Panel > Sound > Recording
- Select the microphone to be used and click the Properties button
- Click the Levels tab

2. Make sure that external microphones are plugged in
- Tracker mics are typically plugged into a special USB adapter.
