Reflector 2
FAQs
1. Do I have to connect my laptop or can I mirror directly to my display or projector?
Reflector 2 runs on the teacher's laptop, which must be connected to the display or projector to view the mirrored image from an iPad or Android device. There is no direct connection to the display or projector, so there's no need to switch inputs or connect any external devices.
2. What will Reflector 2 replace? Why should I use it?
Some teachers may find that using a mobile device mirrored to Reflector 2 on a laptop connected to a display or projector to allow for mobility + interactivity, ease of sharing multiple screens at once, document camera functionality, and recording activities done on a mobile device. In addition to providing new functions not easily accomplished before, Reflector 2 can turn a mobile device into an interactive tool, a document camera, a presentation remote, a demonstration tool, and more, with no need for extra equipment, remote controls, or adjustments.
3. I have an AppleTV - can I just use that instead?
Yes, but without the advanced features (connecting multiple devices, recording any or all connected devices, increased control over the displayed image, easy switching between connected devices) that come with Reflector 2.
4. How can I keep students from connecting when I don't want them to?
Pay close attention to the Preferences part of the documentation. Set Connection to "Connect and Hide Device," so students may be able to connect, but only the teacher will be able to decide what gets displayed.
5. What app do I need to download to use Reflector 2?
There are no apps needed on iOS devices. Use AirPlay (swipe up from the bottom of your iPad) to mirror. For Android devices, download Chromecast (Google Cast) cast to Reflector 2.
6. Will my iPad get disconnected the way it does with my AppleTV?
Occasionally, especially when playing videos through certain apps, an iOS device will lose its connection. It should not happen as frequently with Reflector 2 as it does with AppleTV.
7. I connected yesterday - why can't I connect today?
Reflector 2 should be shut down manually when not in use, especially when changing location. Quitting and restarting Reflector 2 should make it available again.
8. Will this work for personal devices (BYOD) or laptops?
At this time, Reflector 2 will only work on WCPSS devices on the WCPSS network (Lunenburg). WCPSS student laptops use Chromecast to connect, but it is generally easier to connect a student laptop directly to the display or projector than to use Reflector 2.
9. Can I put this on my desktop (or Mac laptop)?
Reflector 2 is only available on teacher PC laptops.
10. What can I do if I have trouble using Reflector 2?
Tech contacts should put in a ticket to the helpdesk.
1. Do I have to connect my laptop or can I mirror directly to my display or projector?
Reflector 2 runs on the teacher's laptop, which must be connected to the display or projector to view the mirrored image from an iPad or Android device. There is no direct connection to the display or projector, so there's no need to switch inputs or connect any external devices.
2. What will Reflector 2 replace? Why should I use it?
Some teachers may find that using a mobile device mirrored to Reflector 2 on a laptop connected to a display or projector to allow for mobility + interactivity, ease of sharing multiple screens at once, document camera functionality, and recording activities done on a mobile device. In addition to providing new functions not easily accomplished before, Reflector 2 can turn a mobile device into an interactive tool, a document camera, a presentation remote, a demonstration tool, and more, with no need for extra equipment, remote controls, or adjustments.
3. I have an AppleTV - can I just use that instead?
Yes, but without the advanced features (connecting multiple devices, recording any or all connected devices, increased control over the displayed image, easy switching between connected devices) that come with Reflector 2.
4. How can I keep students from connecting when I don't want them to?
Pay close attention to the Preferences part of the documentation. Set Connection to "Connect and Hide Device," so students may be able to connect, but only the teacher will be able to decide what gets displayed.
5. What app do I need to download to use Reflector 2?
There are no apps needed on iOS devices. Use AirPlay (swipe up from the bottom of your iPad) to mirror. For Android devices, download Chromecast (Google Cast) cast to Reflector 2.
6. Will my iPad get disconnected the way it does with my AppleTV?
Occasionally, especially when playing videos through certain apps, an iOS device will lose its connection. It should not happen as frequently with Reflector 2 as it does with AppleTV.
7. I connected yesterday - why can't I connect today?
Reflector 2 should be shut down manually when not in use, especially when changing location. Quitting and restarting Reflector 2 should make it available again.
8. Will this work for personal devices (BYOD) or laptops?
At this time, Reflector 2 will only work on WCPSS devices on the WCPSS network (Lunenburg). WCPSS student laptops use Chromecast to connect, but it is generally easier to connect a student laptop directly to the display or projector than to use Reflector 2.
9. Can I put this on my desktop (or Mac laptop)?
Reflector 2 is only available on teacher PC laptops.
10. What can I do if I have trouble using Reflector 2?
Tech contacts should put in a ticket to the helpdesk.