Panopto: Lecture Capture System

Recording with Panopto

Panopto is the official lecture capture software used by SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University allowing the recording of streamable, rewatchable lectures live in the classroom or at the comfort of your own desk.

Panopto is easy to use, requiring little more than a microphone and an internet connection. This guide will provide a basic primer in the operation of Panopto.

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.

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.

Configure Panopto Recorder

Edit Your Recording