Frequently Asked Questions
 
Dome
What do I do if the dome does not inflate? The air “intake chamber” is actually at a 90* angle to the dome, therefore it is important that there be enough space for full extension.  Also check the snaps to ensure the the majority of “air intake chamber” is snapped around the fan. Be sure that the fan is on high for the initial inflation.  The speed may be turned down later.

Am I supposed to see light coming through the top of the dome? Our domes are relatively old and over the years have had minimal damage.  The light you see is just a pin hole that has developed.  Putting a small piece of duct tape over the hole, will ensure a more authentic viewing.

Does the dome actually fit into the bag in which it was delivered? Yes

K-8  Box or the “Pinhole Projector”

What do I do if the light does not come on? First check to make sure the plug is plugged in. It is not uncommon for a student to accidentally disconnect it between groups.  Check to make sure the machine is turned on.  Then check the side lights to make sure they are coming on. Check the center light bulb to make sure that it is securely fastened to the platform. On occasion the light bulb does burn out and must be replaced.  We include spare bulbs in smaller yellow boxes.  Please let the office know if this happens to you so that we may replace bulbs in a fairly quick manner.

What do I do if the turn table does not spin? Double check to make sure the projector has been turned on. If it is still not working, there are times that the wiring needs to be “jiggled slightly”. If you do not feel comfortable doing this please call the office immediately 209-468-4880  and we will be able to run an additional projector over to you if it is available. 

What do I do if there are supplies missing from the tub? Occasionally this happens.  Please call our office immediately and we will do our best to track it down. 209-468-4880

Digital Dome
FAQ’s for this section will be updated quarterly throughout 2009-2010.

Where is the combination for the combination lock?
You may find it on the inside of the outer most pocket of the backpack.  It is also written on the inside cover of the notebook which may also be found in the backpack.

What do I do if I turn on the projector and the horizon is crooked? (see pp. 8-9 in User’s Manual).  You want to first check to see that the legs on the on the bottom are the same height.  Next you’ll want to push “auto set up” on the front of the projector part. If that still does not rectify the problem do the following:
To adjust the east-west position- use the knob next to the fisheye lens.
To adjust the north-south positioning, press the LENS button on the Projector three times until the option reads “Lens Shift”.  Use the “up” and “down” arrows to adjust the lens and then press the menu button to end the process.  

Is there a specific procedure for turning off the projector? The directions may be found on the back of the binder found in the backpack.  Basically, you must turn off the computer first using the remote control.  GO to the arrow icon on the remote, go to 8. Administration then select 8.3 Shutdown.  It will ask you “if you are sure”.  Select yes again and the computer will shutdown. 
Second, Turn off the projector: Turn off the projector by pressing the power button twice. The button’s backlight turns orange.  IMPORTANT!  Let the projector cool- it takes about two minutes.  When the power button turns red, turn off the power, switch both units off and put the collar around the  the lens.  Put everything away.

Do I need to unscrew the lens prior to packing it?  NO! The lens stays on the projector and the collar goes around the base of the lens to protect it.

What should I do if the bulb burns out? Immediately  evacuate the dome and send students back to class,  lift the dome over the projector and begin “shut down procedures” found on the back of the binder.  Immediately notify SJCOE 209-468-4880.