Dim lights, power on display, launch powerpoint at same time.

June 24, 2011 6:50 AM

Need to dim the lights, turn on display and launch a video or PowerPoint with a remote control. Possible?

Hey all. I've been given the task of figuring out a way to dim the lights in our conference room, turn on the plasma screen that is connected to a laptop and launch a video or a presentation that is on the laptop with basically the touch of a button (or two) on a remote or some type of presentation remote.

Are these things possible with a single remote?

Thank you!

posted by Jackie_Treehorn to computers & internet (4 answers total)

Not sure what your budget is, but yes, this is entirely possible using a control system from a company like AMX or Crestron.
posted by The Gooch at 8:33 AM on June 24, 2011

Dim the lights (requires wiring, but I imagine so will any solution to dim the overhead lights in your conference room)
Turn on the TV (though your TV probably already has a remote)
Start PowerPoint presentation

So, it can be done with three remotes pretty easily.

If you really want to get your hands dirty, you could follow along with this instructable and do away with the first two by sending With a little creative wiring you could probably do away with the first two by controlling a dimmer and power-strip directly from USB. Of course this will probably be nixed by the building manager as a firecode violation unless you happen to be a certified electrician.
posted by 256 at 8:34 AM on June 24, 2011

We've just set up something similar. If your budget allows for it, I highly recommend bringing in an A/V company to design a solution that meets your needs.

The heart of our system is a Creston MC2E Processor. This talks to the various pieces of equipment in the room and controls the devices. It can also communicate with a separate Lutron Grafik Eye system that controls the lights and shades. All the different devices can then be controlled individually or in groups. We've configured one touch settings for different room uses such as presentations, audio conferences or meetings through a Creston TPMC-9.
posted by IanMorr at 9:26 AM on June 24, 2011

You could probably get some X10 automation components to do the job. Here's what I found on a quick search:

X10 PC starter kit (on sale via x10's ebay storefront)
X10 powerpoint remote
posted by thewildgreen at 2:39 PM on June 24, 2011