Random Access

There are a number of software packages that can be used for lyric projection. The key for successful operation of a lyric computer is the ability to select different songs, verses, chorus, bridge, etc., randomly from a cue screen, while the main output of the computer feeds the video projection system. This function is called nonlinear operation or random access, and adds polish to the service.

The primary output of the computer feeds the projector and is called the main output or primary output. The second output of the computer is called a cueing monitor. Microsoft PowerPoint has the ability to gang two computers so that one computer's output is the main output and the second computer's output is the cueing output. Other hardware/software and software packages are available that permit cueing outputs and come pre-loaded with libraries of traditional and contemporary worship lyrics, a definite time-saver.

A Word of Advice…

A church should not pinch pennies on computers allocated to lyric projection. Buying new is a good policy for equipment that the church depends on for congregational usage. If you can't afford to buy new, do not settle for anything less than a 200MHz Pentium

The Onstage Video Monitor (OVM) provides the same functionality for video images as an onstage sound "foldback" monitor in the sound domain (shown: EAW SM-122e sound stage monitor).

computer loaded with a minimum of 96MB of RAM memory. If you cannot afford to meet these specifications, your church is not ready for lyric projection by computer.

Don't Overlook the Infrastructure

Some form of switching, conversion and distribution system is important to the operational flow, and is often overlooked during the purchase of video projection system. However, this topic easily constitutes a separate article and can be covered at another time. A consultant or integrator is useful for complex arrangements. If you want to teach yourself how to interconnect video components, there is a plethora of technical information to be gleaned from web sites noted at the end of this article.

Onstage Video Monitors

An added bonus to usage of video projection systems is the implementation of the onstage video monitor (OVM). Like onstage sound "foldback" monitors, OVMs are video monitors that face those on the stage. The usage of onstage video monitors helps the pastoral staff, choir members and musicians to still feel connected to projected images that are usually out of their line-of-sight. If a video clip is being shown to the congregation, it is only fair that the choir gets to see the same video clip. In the case of the choir, the onstage video monitors act as a prompter so that forgetful members can see the lyrics.

Most churches that implement an OVM will encase the monitor in a cosmetic casing. The cosmetic casing can be covered by the same carpet as on the stage, wood grain veneer plastic laminate, or covered to match the sound foldback monitors. This casing also assists with angle issues, eliminating the need to prop up the front of the monitor.

Although dollars could be saved, the OVM should never use a RF distribution system to distribute the signal. Disruption of the signal will result in video snow and white noise sound, a guaranteed interruption to the event. A composite video signal should always be used for economic and dependability reasons. If you can afford it, a professional video production monitor is preferable over a consumer television, because a master power switch can power the monitor up. Most consumer televisions must be individually switched on after power is supplied to the monitor.

In addition, professional video monitors have loop-through BNC connectors, which can save a few dollars on distribution amplifier channels. However, I prefer a dedicated video distribution channel for every monitor as it can avoid termination problems. A 25" consumer television with composite video input can be purchased for a few hundred dollars these days, economy that is difficult to dispute, but will often require a human to individually power on the device.

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