Read our book "Equipment You May Find in Teaching and Learning Rooms": Connecting Your Own Device in Teaching Spaces

This book introduces the most common pieces of equipment you’ll find in a teaching space. Use the contents page to navigate through the different sections.

The specific model or brand of equipment in your room may look slightly different, and you may have more or fewer items than those shown here. This guide is intended to provide a general overview.

7. Connecting Your Own Device in Teaching Spaces

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HDMI connector USB-C port and connector

What connections do you need?

You can connect a laptop, MacBook or tablet as a source in most teaching spaces. Rooms normally include one or more connection options, depending on the size of the space and the equipment installed.

Most rooms will provide either a single standard adaptor or a combination of USB‑C and HDMI connectors.

If you are using a MacBook, you may need an adaptor to adjust the video output from 4K to 1050p, as the system will not accept a 4K signal. The university does not provide these adaptors, so we recommend purchasing your own. They are widely available from major online retailers.

If possible, check in advance whether the room you are using has the appropriate connectors or adaptors for your device.

Please remember that teaching PCs are always available in every space and offer a reliable alternative if you are unable to connect your own device.

A table comparing device types, HDMI support, USB‑C support and how each connects to teaching‑room displays. HDMI and USB‑C i

Device Types and How They Connect

Windows laptop

HDMI: Usually built in
USB‑C: Often yes
Connection: HDMI directly, or USB‑C if supported

MacBook Pro

HDMI: Yes on newer models
USB‑C: Yes
Connection: USB‑C, or HDMI on newer models

MacBook Air

HDMI: No
USB‑C: Yes
Connection: USB‑C to HDMI adapter

iPad (newer USB‑C models)

HDMI: No
USB‑C: Yes
Connection: USB‑C to HDMI adapter

iPad (older Lightning models)

HDMI: No
USB‑C: No (Lightning only)
Connection: Lightning to HDMI adapter

iPad Pro

HDMI: No
USB‑C / Thunderbolt: Yes
Connection: USB‑C to HDMI adapter

Android tablet

HDMI: Rare
USB‑C: Yes
Connection: USB‑C to HDMI (if the device supports video output)

Tips

Arrive a few minutes early to allow time to connect your device and switch between sources if needed.
Save your presentation to OneDrive so you can access it from any teaching PC with your QMUL login.